The frozen dessert industry has evolved over the past decade, and one of the fastest-growing trends is vegan and non-dairy products.
Not too long ago, vegan offerings were rare in ice cream shops. Five or six years ago, they barely made up a fraction of sales. But year after year, that number has climbed steadily, and today, it’s no longer a niche; it’s a market you can’t afford to ignore.
The Growth of Vegan Frozen Desserts
The demand for vegan options isn’t slowing down. Every year, more customers are choosing dairy-free or plant-based treats, either for dietary reasons or as a lifestyle choice.
While older generations may not identify strongly with vegan diets, younger generations do. In fact, Gen Z and Millennials make up the majority of customers seeking vegan desserts, with nearly half identifying as vegan, dairy-free, or following some form of dietary restriction.
That means if your shop doesn’t have vegan options now, you could be missing out on an entire generation of future customers.
Why It Matters to Your Business
Offering vegan and non-dairy products isn’t just about keeping up with trends—it’s about keeping your doors open to everyone.
Here’s the reality: when a family or group goes out for dessert, the buying decision is often based on the person with a restriction or preference. If one member of that group can’t find a suitable option, the entire group will go somewhere else.
By offering vegan ice cream, you’re not just gaining one sale—you’re gaining the whole family’s sale.
And the best part? The quality of vegan frozen desserts has come a long way. Years ago, many products were grainy or lacked flavor. But now, thanks to increased demand and innovation, vegan ice creams and soft serves taste incredible, so good that even non-vegans enjoy them without noticing a difference.
Getting Started with Vegan Offerings
Adding vegan products to your menu doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re an ice cream shop, restaurant, or café, there’s equipment designed to fit your space and production level.
If you already make your own ice cream, incorporating vegan recipes is simple. You can use smaller machines or dedicate one unit to vegan production. Soft serve? There are excellent non-dairy bases available, including water-based options like Dole Whip, that customers love.
The key is choosing the right equipment and working with experts who understand how to balance taste, consistency, and efficiency.
Final Scoop
The frozen dessert market is changing, and it’s time to change with it. Vegan and non-dairy products aren’t just an alternative anymore; they’re an expectation for today’s customers.
By adding even a few plant-based options, you’ll expand your audience, increase sales, and future-proof your business for the next generation of dessert lovers.
If you’re ready to explore vegan and non-dairy frozen dessert equipment or learn more about recipes and setup, talk to our team. We’ll help you find the perfect solution to fit your store, your budget, and your customers’ tastes.
