Watch These Top Trends in the Ice Cream Industry

August 2024

A man handing a woman a vanilla ice cream cone from a truck windowA man handing a woman a vanilla ice cream cone from a truck window

Decadent Delights: Unveiling Ice Cream Trends, Flavors, and Cocoa Magic

The ice cream industry, like a delightful swirl of flavors, is constantly evolving. Let's explore the trends that are shaping this frozen wonderland: 

In the US and Canada day-part focus is on evening snacks, followed by afternoon consumption. The US consumer is driven by taste, indulgence, and happiness. While Canadians seek more healthy options, and low sugar is an important health claim. Tying into the global trend of wellness, companies attempt to find ways to create positioning to address weight management via sugar and fat reduction without impacting taste and indulgence, protein addition, and calling out “natural” or “real” ingredients while also focusing on sustainability.  Exciting 2025 predictions include more floral flavors and bakery and ice cream combinations. While in 2024 cookie and caramel are still widely popular across dairy, in plant-based Mango is 3rd in Canada. 

Plant-Based Revolution

Plant-based ice creams have taken center stage. These dairy-free delights cater to vegans, the lactose-intolerant, and health-conscious consumers. The market for plant-based ice creams is projected to reach a staggering US$ 4.3 billion by 2033, with a robust growth rate of 10%


Clean label and healthfulness drive this trend. Coconut, soy, cashew, and almond milks serve as the base for these guilt-free treats. 

vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate soft serve in sugar conesvanilla, strawberry, and chocolate soft serve in sugar cones

Flavor Innovations

Coconut Takes the Crown

Coconut-based ice creams dominate, accounting for a substantial 43% of the plant-based ice cream market. Their tropical flavor appeals to a wide audience, making them a go-to choice. 

Chocolate's Sweet Journey

Chocolate remains timeless. It's projected to grow at an impressive 15.2% CAGR, solidifying its position as the most beloved flavor among consumers. 

Close-up of Cadbury chocolate squaresClose-up of Cadbury chocolate squares

Types of Ice Cream

Traditional Favorites

  • Scoopable Ice Cream: Classic and comforting, available in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. 

  • Soft Serve: Light and airy, served directly from the machine. 
Chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla soft serve in white cupsChocolate, strawberry, and vanilla soft serve in white cups

Novelty Treats

  • Ice Cream Bars: Handheld delights with a creamy center coated in chocolate or other coatings. 

  • Ice Cream Sandwiches: A layer of ice cream nestled between two cookies or wafers. 
  • Frozen Yogurt: Tangy and lower in fat, often found in self-serve shops. 
Cocoa pod split in half to show cacao beansCocoa pod split in half to show cacao beans

Cocoa in Ice Cream

Cocoa, the heart and soul of chocolate, plays a pivotal role in ice cream. Let's explore deZaan Cocoa: Engineered for Excellence.


Since 1911, deZaan has been tantalizing taste buds with its finest cocoa ingredients. Here are some remarkable options: 

In summary, whether you're savoring a scoop of coconut bliss, indulging in classic chocolate, or experimenting with deZaan Cocoa, ice cream continues to delight our taste buds. So go ahead, take a sweet journey through the frosty landscape of flavors! 

Stay up-to-date on the latest ofi news

Subscribe

© 2024 Olam International All Rights Reserved Co. Reg. No. 199504676H