Valsoia award-winning gelato

© Valsoia

Company News

Valsoia: Pioneering Plant-Based Foods & Award-Winning Gelato From Italy

Valsoia is an Italian brand founded in 1990 by neurologist Lorenzo Sassoli, who believed that a balanced plant-based diet is beneficial for the body, well-being, and mood. The company aims to improve quality of life by producing healthier alternatives to traditional Italian foods, with no sacrifice in flavour or texture. Valsoia initially offered plant-based drinks, hazelnut spreads, and meat alternatives, before expanding into yogurts and gelato. Valsoia’s meat and dairy alternatives are now widely available across major Italian retailers, and have expanded into over 40 countries. In Sweden, Spain, and Germany, they are available at stores such as Coop, Bon Preu, El Corte Ingles, Carrefour, and Rewe; in the UK, the brand has launched at online supermarket Ocado. Valsoia is also seeing successful sales results …

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Over the Moo bite-size vegan ice cream

© Over the Moo

Sweets & Snacks

Australia’s Over the Moo Expands to the UK With Bite-Size Vegan Ice Cream

Over the Moo, a plant-based ice cream brand founded in Australia, has arrived in the UK with the launch of a range of bite-size frozen snacks. Consisting of chunks of coconut-based ice cream coated in dark chocolate, the snacks are available in two flavours — vanilla and caramel. The new products are unique to the UK; in its home country, Over the Moo offers a more typical range of tub-based ice creams. So how did the expansion come about, and why the difference in products? Gap in the market On a trip to Australia, British businessman Simon Goodman spotted Over the Moo in a supermarket and decided to sample it. He was impressed, but didn’t think much more of it until six months later, when …

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NadaMoo! mint chip in bowl

©NadaMoo!

Studies & Numbers

New Report Looks at America’s “Dynamic” Plant-Based Ice Cream Landscape

As the global plant-based ice cream market continues to grow in scale and diversity, we take a closer look at the US plant-based ice cream landscape, considered the “most advanced and dynamic” market in the world.  The analysis below is part of research by Future Grocery Shopping (FGS), an Amsterdam-based research startup that develops insights in upcoming alternative food solutions, such as plant-based and cell-based food. Founded by Sew Ritoe and Herbert Frühling, the company has the ambition to become a leading player within these fields. The founders previously worked for leading companies in Tech, FMCG and Media and are dedicated to use and further develop state-of-the-art research solutions for the alternative and plant-based food industry. In its comprehensive landscape report, FGS assessed 335 products …

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Vegan cashew milk ice cream

©Craig's Vegan

Sweets & Snacks

Craig’s Vegan Enters Ice Cream Novelties Market with Launch of First Pre-Portioned Mini Cups

California-based brand Craig’s Vegan announces it is expanding its frozen dessert platform and launching its popular cashew ice cream in single, pre-portioned Minis. According to Craig’s Vegan, its new Minis will be offered in 3.6 oz cups with a spoon in the lid, making them a convenient option for an on-the-go snack or dessert. The brand will offer the new mini size in five flavors, including Melrose Mint Chip, Kursten’s PB Krunch, Perfectly Chocolate, Sunset & Strawberry and Killa’ Vanilla. Like all of Craig’s Vegan ice creams, the Minis are made with a premium cashew base that is 100% dairy-free, kosher, non-GMO and gluten-free. First launched in 2018, Craig’s Vegan has become the ice cream of choice among several Hollywood A-listers, including model Hailey Bieber. …

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KLIMON Morning Brew Ice Cream

©KLIMON

Sweets & Snacks

KLIMON’s Innovative Almond Milk Ice Cream Launches into US Costco Stores

Dairy-free brand KLIMON announces the launch of its popular almond milk ice cream at all Costco stores in Northern California, Central California, and Northern Nevada. The brand’s ice cream is now available for purchase in 4-pint variety packs.  “Decadent texture” KLIMON (pronounced “klee-mohn”) only launched in 2022, but it has already garnered a huge fan base for its innovative plant-based ice cream, which it says offers the same texture and creaminess as dairy. Using a proprietary blend of almond milk, coconut oil, proteins and stabilizers, KLIMON produces ice cream in five flavors: Morning Brew, Caramel Brûlée, Sunrise Bang, Mint Condition and Cherry Bomb. At Costco, the product will now be available in a 4-pint pack with Cherry Bomb, Mint Condition and Morning Brew varieties.  KLIMON …

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Häagen-Dazs Start-Up Innovation Challenge

© WNWN

Sweets & Snacks

Cocoa-Free Choc Ice Cream by WNWN Wins Award at Häagen-Dazs Start-Up Innovation Challenge

British company WNWN Food Labs has won ‘Best Demo’ at the Häagen-Dazs Start-Up Innovation Challenge, after showcasing how its cocoa-free vegan chocolate could be used to make ice cream. In the final phase of the competition on June 13, WNWN presented its developments in the category of ice cream with the lowest carbon footprint. The company had developed nine preparations, including three varieties of chocolate hazelnut ice cream — one encased in a WNWN chocolate shell with WNWN choc chips inside, one in a tub, and one in the form of bite-sized pieces. As well as winning the Best Demo award, WNWN has been named as one of three finalists in the lowest carbon footprint category; the others are France’s YUMGO and Denmark’s Agrain. A …

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Oatly oat-based soft-serve

© Oatly

Milk- and Dairy Alternatives

Oatly Opens Popup Oat-Based Soft-Serve Shop in Amsterdam

After launching its oat-based soft-serve for food service last month, Oatly has opened a popup ice cream shop in Amsterdam. The store offers three flavours of dairy-free soft-serve — vanilla, coffee, and matcha. Customers can also choose from a range of “over-the-top toppings”, including strawberries, cherries, stroopwafel, salted caramel, cardamom, and even chilli flakes. The popup opened on July 2 and will run every day until August 31, based at Prinsengracht 16. The opening hours are 12:00-22:00. Oatly has also announced that the soft-serve will be “going on tour” in the UK, with a truck visiting numerous cities including Liverpool, Leeds, London, and Bristol throughout August and early September. Additionally, the ice cream will be on offer at various festivals across Northern Europe throughout the …

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Oatly soft serve

©Oatly

Sweets & Snacks

Oatly Launches Oatly Vanilla Soft Serve Ice Cream Into UK Food Service

Oatly Group AB (Nasdaq: OTLY) today announces the launch of Oatly Vanilla Soft Serve ice cream for UK food service providers including some well-known outlets as well as upcoming summer festivals. The product was first previewed during London Coffee Festival in April and is now available to partners such as The Breakfast Club, and the famous Fortnum & Mason department store in Piccadilly. JENKI will use the product to create a unique Matcha Soft Serve ice cream for its London Matcha bars while fast-growing chain Neat Burger, backed by Leonardo DiCaprio and Lewis Hamilton, is set to use Oatly Soft Serve in its soft serve shakes.   Exciting plans for this product Bryan Carroll, General Manager for Oatly in the UK and Ireland, said: “At Oatly, …

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Lakeland Dairies vegan ice cream mix

© Lakeland Dairies

Milk- and Dairy Alternatives

Lakeland Dairies Launches Vegan Ice Cream Mix for Food Service

Irish cooperative Lakeland Dairies has launched a new vanilla-flavoured vegan ice cream mix under its Comelle brand. Containing coconut oil, pea protein, and rice protein, the soft serve mix is free of all 14 major food allergens and is described as “deliciously smooth”. It can also be used to make thick shakes. Lakeland has been making conventional dairy ice cream mixes under the Comelle name for over 70 years, but this is the first plant-based product to be offered. “Long & renowned heritage” A report published last year revealed that the vegan ice cream market is expected to grow by $1.55 billion over the period 2022-2026, representing a CAGR of 11.49%. The increase is being driven by an expanding vegan population and more product launches, …

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Soy-based vegan ice cream launched by Dairyland

© Dairyland

Sweets & Snacks

The Dairy-Free Dream: Dairyland Launches Vegan Ice Cream in Kenya

Dairy products company Dairyland, which claims to be Kenya’s ice cream leader for over 25 years, has recently launched a new range of vegan ice cream.   To celebrate the new product, Dairyland launched a campaign called The Dairy-Free Dream, inviting those with lactose intolerance to finally indulge in the treat of their dreams. Soy-based, the new vegan ice cream range includes five flavors: vanilla, strawberry, cappuccino, brownie, and hazelnut. This initiative allows Dairyland to meet the evolving needs of consumers, especially dietary needs and values, while aligning the company with the global shift towards health, wellness, and environmental awareness, reported the local media outlet Pulse Live. “Our Vegan Ice Cream is a game-changer for individuals who are lactose intolerant. They can now indulge in their favorite frozen …

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Kale United acquires Lily & Hanna's

© Lily & Hanna's

Investments & Acquisitions

Kale United Acquires Over 95% of Swedish Vegan Ice Cream Brand Lily & Hanna’s

Plant-based holding company Kale United has announced its acquisition of Lily & Hanna’s, a vegan ice cream brand based in Sweden. Kale United said it had agreed to purchase just under 70% of the shares in Lily & Hanna’s from the founder, and had also offered to purchase all other shares in the company from the remaining shareholders. As a result, Kale United will acquire over 95% of the business. The holding company said the acquisition would increase its turnover by more than 50% at group level, and increase its net asset value by around 10%. Lily & Hanna’s products are available at all major retailers in Sweden and are also sold in several other European countries. The coconut-based ice creams come in flavours such …

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yoga-urt two scoops

©Yoga-urt

Company News

Yoga-urt Now Offering Franchise Opportunities in the USA

After eight successful years of operation, Yoga-urt, a 100% vegan and gluten-free soft-serve dessert chain, reveals it is now launching its franchise concept. The Los Angeles-based dessert company states that the franchise opportunities make it the first 100% vegan and gluten-free soft-serve ice cream chain in the area. Yoga-urt differentiates itself from other providers by using only organic and natural plant-based ingredients with no artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives. “Customers love our soft serve ice cream and given the high demand and growth, we are proud to take the next step in developing the brand through franchising,” said Melissa Schulman, founder of Yoga-urt. “We hope to inspire a new generation of business owners who want to cement their legacy in the organic food and wellness …

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Vegan Fudgsicle Ice Pops

©FudgyPop

Products & Launches

Two Innovative Vegan Frozen Treats – FudgyPops and Frooze Balls – Arrive in US Retail

As the US dairy-free ice cream market continues to expand, two brands are innovating new frozen treats to reinvent classic favorites or offer healthier plant-based snacking.  Here, we present the latest from FudgyPop and Frooze Balls. LA-based, women-owned Fruitful Brands recently launched FudgyPop – a dairy-free take on classic Fudgsicle frozen chocolate treats. Made with coconut cream and premium dutch cocoa, FudgyPops offer a clean-label, modern version of the nostalgic ice cream favorite, with 90 calories per serving. Created by Fruitful co-founders Nicole Cardone and Deborah Gorman, FudgyPops are available in three flavors – Fudgy, Berry and Minty – and offer a “rich, creamy, super-fudgy experience” for adults, says the brand. When compared to traditional Fudgsicles, FudgyPops are also said to have a denser taste …

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Wicked Ice Cream, Stew and Mac & Cheeze

©Wicked Kitchen

Products & Launches

Wicked Kitchen Expands Grocery Line with Birthday Cake Ice Cream, Heat-and-Eat Stews and Mac & Cheeze

Global plant-based brand Wicked Kitchen announces it is expanding its US grocery range with several varieties of heat-and-eat stews, mac ‘n cheeze and an all-new Birthday Cake ice cream pint. The company will be sampling its latest offerings at the upcoming Expo West in Anaheim, CA. According to Wicked, it is expanding its lineup during a time of “high growth” for the brand, as it continues to rapidly increase nationwide retail distribution points.  The new ice cream, stews and mac & cheezes add to the 50+ products Wicked already sells in the frozen and grocery categories. The latest offerings include: Birthday Cake Ice Cream Sweet “ice dream” with vegan cake pieces and rainbow sprinkles.  Heat & Serve Stews      Tuscan Style White Bean Stew …

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Hemp Milk Ice Cream

©Planet Based Foods

Products & Launches

Planet Based Foods Enters Frozen Dessert Category with Organic Hemp Milk Ice Cream

Planet Based Foods, maker of innovative hemp-based meat, announces it is expanding into non-dairy frozen desserts with new organic hemp-based vegan ice cream. Available in three flavors, the company will debut the new ice cream to retail and food service buyers at the upcoming Expo West in Anaheim, CA.  According to Planet Based, the new ice cream is an allergen-friendly dessert that is free from soy, gluten, dairy and GMO ingredients. Made with an organic hemp milk base and other premium plant-based ingredients, the product was developed by Chief Innovation Officer Robert Davis, who drew on his years of experience in the non-dairy foods category.  The company’s “exceptionally creamy” formulations are available in four flavors:  Butter Pecan –  Featuring a creamy, buttery taste with lightly …

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Valsoia_Gelato

© Valsoia

Products & Launches

Valsoia Launches Vegan Gelato “Unlike Any Other Plant-Based Ice Cream on the Market”

Valsoia, Italy’s leading producer of plant-based products, launches a new line of Italian vegan gelato for consumers across Europe. New flavours such as Espresso Cones with Chocolate Chips, and Triple Pistachio Mini Sticks join an extensive non-dairy range which includes Cocoa Swirl and Roasted Almond Cones, and vegan ice cream sandwiches. The company states that its factory is 100 % dairy-free to avoid risk of cross-contamination with dairy products, and claims the “gelato is unlike any other plant-based ice cream on the market, thanks to expertly selected cashews, oats, rice, and soy, which provide the perfect canvas for a rich and delicious flavours experience.” The company produces a wide range of plant-based milks, yogurts, ice creams, puddings, cream cheeses, burgers and cutlets, pizzas, snacks, and …

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EatKinda ice cream

© EatKinda

Milk- and Dairy Alternatives

EatKinda: Innovative Dairy-Free Ice Cream Made From Upcycled Cauliflower

EatKinda is a New Zealand company making plant-based ice cream with an unusual key ingredient — cauliflower. The brand was founded in 2020 by longtime vegan Jenni Matheson and food technology student Milli Kumar. To make the ice cream, cauliflower that would otherwise be wasted is combined with ingredients such as coconut oil, pea protein, and chickpea flour to give a rich, creamy texture. The product is currently available in three flavours: Strawberry Swirl, Chocolate Swirl, and Mint Choco Bikkie. In blind taste tests, it is said to have performed equally to conventional dairy ice cream. Lost crops EatKinda’s journey so far has not been without its challenges — 460kg of cauliflower earmarked for use in the ice cream was lost in floods earlier this …

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Seitan wraps, image from AGRANA

Image supplied by AGRANA

Fairs & Events

AGRANA to Showcase Vegan Ice Cream & Wheat-Based Alt Meat at BIOFACH Fair

Fruit, starch, and sugar group AGRANA is set to attend the BIOFACH fair, the world’s largest trade fair for organic foods. AGRANA will exhibit a range of organic products at the event in Nuremberg, Germany. These will include some plant-based options, such as a new coconut-based ice cream with red berries and chai spices. The company will also display grain proteins such as vital wheat gluten, which can be used to make meat alternatives. Gluten is said to be an excellent protein source, with remarkable water absorption and viscosity properties that can improve the texture of plant-based meats. Available to sample BIOFACH visitors will be able to sample AGRANA’s meat alternatives in the form of a BBQ wrap with spicy pepper-onion sauce and a chicken-style …

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Breyers Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream

©Unilever

Products & Launches

Unilever Adds Breyers Oat Milk and Talenti Dairy-Free Gelato to US Ice Cream Line

CPG giant Unilever, the world’s largest ice cream manufacturer, is expanding its US dairy-free ice cream offerings with a new range of innovations from Breyers and Talenti gelato.   Legacy ice cream brand Breyers is rolling out Breyers Non-Dairy Vanilla – its first all-vanilla plant-based ice cream flavor. Featuring an upgraded formula made with real oat milk, Breyers Non-Dairy Vanilla is one of the first dairy-free ice creams to be offered in a large 1.5 quart tub.  Since 2015, Breyers has sold a separate line of plant-based ice creams made with almond milk.  Better gelato Another Unilever brand, Talenti, reveals it is adding a new selection of dairy-free gelato to its lineup. Crafted from cashew butter and oat milk, the Dairy-Free gelatos are said to match …

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Ben & Jerry's Vegan Oatmeal Ice Cram

©Ben & Jerry's

Products & Launches

After 10 Years, Ben & Jerry’s ‘Most Requested’ Oatmeal Ice Cream Re-Launches with Partake Cookies

Ben & Jerry’s announces it is bringing back its long-sought-after ice cream flavor, Oatmeal Cookie Chunk, as an all-new non-dairy dessert: Oatmeal Dream Pie. Created in collaboration with Partake Foods, the new ice cream features Partake Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies and will soon appear in US stores as a full-time dairy-free addition.  Ben & Jerry’s discontinued the fan favorite Oatmeal Cookie Chunk in 2012; since then, the Vermont-based company has reported it as its most commonly-requested flavor by fans. The new Oatmeal Crème Pie features Partake’s allergy-friendly oatmeal cookies combined with marshmallow swirls. The dessert is certified vegan and will retail for an MRSP of $5.99 – $6.49 per pint. “Foodie fans can rejoice this new version of our nostalgic offering,” said Flavor Guru, Chris Rivard, …

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