A Scoop of History: Ben & Jerry's Journey
Before we dive into these creamy developments, let's take a little journey back in time. Ben & Jerry's was born in 1978 as a humble ice cream parlor in Burlington, Vermont. Over the years, it has evolved into a multinational brand, beloved by people all around the world. In 2000, Ben & Jerry's joined the Unilever family, yet it has maintained its independent spirit. The company's headquarters are nestled in South Burlington, Vermont, with a factory in Waterbury, Vermont, churning out those delectable flavors.
A Change That's Anything but Vanilla
Now, let's talk about the scoop that has got everyone talking – the transition of Ben & Jerry's non-dairy ice cream recipes to use oat milk as the base instead of almonds or sunflower seeds. This isn't just any change; it's a full-on flavor transformation! The team at Ben & Jerry's conducted extensive research and taste tests, and the verdict was clear: oat milk delivers the smoothest texture and the most neutral flavor, allowing the core flavors like chocolate, caramel, and vanilla to truly shine.
But here's the twist – with this shift to oat milk, the non-dairy ice creams will no longer be gluten-free. However, this change opens the door for those with nut allergies to indulge in these delightful creations.
What's New in the Pint?
So, when can you expect to dive into a pint of this new oat-based goodness? Well, the transition will roll out gradually, with two flagship flavors set to launch in the autumn. And don't worry, if your favorite flavor hasn't made the switch yet, you won't have to wait too long. By spring 2024, all 19 flavors will be sporting their oat milk makeover.
Dairy-Free Delights for Everyone
Now, you might be wondering – why the change? The answer lies in making these non-dairy ice creams even more scrumptious and appealing to a broader audience. Ben & Jerry's isn't just about catering to die-hard fans of their previous non-dairy lineup; they're aiming to delight the taste buds of folks who typically enjoy dairy-based ice cream.
The Scoop on the Non-Dairy Ice Cream Market
Plant-based ice cream is indeed gaining ground, but it's still a small slice of the bigger ice cream pie. In the United States, it accounts for just 2.6% of sales, with a household penetration rate of 11.8%. Even though the average American devours a hefty 23 pounds of ice cream each year, dairy-free ice cream sales saw a 4% dip from 2021 to 2022.
Across the pond in the UK, Ben & Jerry's takes the lead in tub and block sales. Yet, non-dairy products make up just 14% of new ice cream launches and less than 5% of take-home sales. The British market saw a 2% decrease in vegan ice cream sales from 2021 to 2022.
So, despite the numbers, there's a hunger for more vegan ice cream options. A global survey revealed that over half of consumers are ready to embrace vegan ice cream if more varieties were readily available. It's a sure sign that plant-based ice cream is an evolving trend.
A Spoonful of Sustainability
But there's more to this story than just deliciousness. The change in Ben & Jerry's non-dairy recipes aligns with a broader trend in the food industry towards plant-based and alternative dairy products. Unilever, the parent company of Ben & Jerry's, has been exploring precision fermentation technology, especially in the non-dairy ice cream segment. This move aims to enhance the quality and sustainability of non-dairy products, responding to the growing demand for plant-based options.
In a world where sustainability and consumer preferences are shifting, it's heartening to see iconic brands like Ben & Jerry's taking the lead in creating scrumptious, planet-friendly treats.
A Scoop of Conclusion
So, as the seasons change, so do the flavors in your beloved Ben & Jerry's non-dairy ice cream. The switch to oat milk promises creamier textures and richer tastes. And while the gluten-free status may be a thing of the past, the door is now open for those with nut allergies to savor these delectable frozen delights.
As the world of non-dairy ice cream continues to evolve, Ben & Jerry's reminds us that change can be a scoopful of sweetness. Who knows what tasty surprises the future holds? Perhaps it's a reminder that even our favorite classics can become even more delightful with a dash of innovation. So, whether you're a vegan, lactose intolerant, or just an ice cream enthusiast, these new oat-based delights might just become your new favorites.
With a growing demand for vegan treats and a dash of sustainability, it's an exciting time for the world of ice cream. Now, the only question is – which oat milk flavor will you be trying first?
The One With Three Eyes 👁
