Consumer Research Technical Information Trends: Confections Trends: Baking & Snack Trends: Foodservice Trends: Ice Cream Usage Tips

The ice cream segment is the starting point for all things decadent. Though mature, the market for ice cream and frozen novelties will continue to grow as consumers show their commitment for sophisticated flavors and ingredients. Success lies in product innovation.

Healthy Indulgences
Health and wellness play an influential role in product development and consumer acceptance. The caveat with ice cream is that a void often exists between consumer demands for the ultimate in indulgent flavors/textures and demand for healthier treats.

Hazelnuts, with their unique flavor and crunchy texture, are emerging as a versatile, distinctive value-adding ingredient in ice cream. Hazelnuts are valued for their ultra indulgent flavor and upscale appeal but they are also one of the most nutritious nuts –rich in fiber, vitamin E, magnesium, heart healthy B vitamins and antioxidants. Their exotic flavor adds a unique twist to ice cream that satisfies consumer cravings for new culinary sensations— giving consumers the best of both worlds.

Premium and Super-Premium Appeal
Product launches touting a premium claim have increased 542% from 2005-07.¹  This growth underscores the importance of the consumer demand for quality products. As a consequence, ice cream purveyors are beginning to describe their offerings as super-premium to establish a different class of products.

Super-premium brands have an opportunity to leverage their notoriety for indulgence with products that can be consumed on an everyday basis. The key is not losing the qualities that differentiate their brand from standard ones—specifically, attention to flavor innovation and use of quality ingredients.

Hazelnuts are the perfect ingredient to include in premium and super-premium ice creams. Consumers view hazelnuts as a specialty ingredient that adds value to any product and creates a feeling of “everyday indulgence.” According to consumer research, 54 percent of Americans would like to try a new ice cream with hazelnuts.² 

Nostalgia and Comfort through Ice Cream
Americans increasingly seek to return to the nostalgia of youth and cherished time spent with family and friends. Hazelnuts are often associated with fond memories of childhood, special occasions and special recipes. Ice cream has a strong association with nearly everyone’s childhood, making it easy choice for a comfort food. Incorporating hazelnuts into ice cream is like giving your customers a little piece of home.