Non-dairy Ice Cream Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market Analysis

The Non-dairy Ice Cream Market size is estimated at 1.83 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 3.25 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 12.14% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The non-dairy ice cream industry is experiencing a significant transformation driven by evolving consumer preferences and lifestyle changes. Digital transformation is reshaping purchasing behaviors, with convenience emerging as the primary motivation for 61.1% of shoppers transitioning to online grocery shopping. This shift is further accelerated by the increasing global smartphone penetration, expected to reach 86.29% of the world's population in 2023. The rise of e-commerce platforms and digital payment solutions has made plant-based ice cream products more accessible to consumers, while social media influences and digital marketing campaigns have heightened awareness about dairy-free ice cream alternatives.

The industry is witnessing a remarkable expansion in retail infrastructure and distribution networks to meet growing consumer demand. Major ice cream specialty chains are rapidly expanding their presence, with industry leader Baskin-Robbins operating over 7,500 stores across 50 countries as of 2022. This expansion is accompanied by significant investments in cold chain logistics and storage facilities to maintain product quality and extend shelf life. Retailers are also dedicating increased shelf space to non-dairy ice cream brands and introducing specialized freezer sections to accommodate the growing variety of vegan ice cream and alternative ice cream products.

Health consciousness and dietary restrictions are emerging as crucial factors shaping market dynamics. In Canada, approximately 59% of the population was identified as lactose intolerant in 2022, driving the demand for dairy-free ice cream alternatives. The industry is responding with innovative formulations that not only cater to dietary restrictions but also address broader health concerns. Manufacturers are focusing on developing products with improved nutritional profiles, incorporating functional ingredients, and reducing sugar content while maintaining taste and texture.

The market is experiencing a surge in culinary innovation and flavor diversity, particularly in regions with strong vegan food cultures. Cities like Ubud, Indonesia, are leading this trend, with approximately 38% of restaurants offering vegan cuisine as of 2021. Product development teams are experimenting with various plant-based dairy ingredients, including almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, and innovative combinations to create unique flavor profiles. This diversification extends beyond traditional ice cream formats to include novel product forms like ice cream sandwiches, bars, and bite-sized treats, catering to different consumption occasions and preferences.

Global Non-dairy Ice Cream Market Trends

The increasing awareness of health consequences, rise in lactose intolerance, growing adoption of plant-based diets, and busy lifestyles of consumers are driving the demand for plant-based ice cream and non-dairy alternatives

• A plant-based diet, such as veganism and vegetarianism, is becoming a growing trend globally. In 2022, around 3% of responding German consumers between 18 and 64 followed a vegan diet. In Brazil, China, Mexico, and the United States, between 2% and 6% of respondents were vegan.
• Non-dairy ice creams are gaining popularity among American and European consumers because of the rise in the population who are flexitarian, lactose-intolerant, or strict vegan. In 2022, the non-dairy ice cream segment of the United States witnessed a growth of 11.98% compared to 2021. The growth is attributed to the rising awareness about the consequences of obesity, which is leading to an increased preference for and consumption of non-fat or less-fat food products. The region observed growth in its obesity by 11.98% in 2020. In Canada, obesity rates in Canadian adults are higher in men than women (28.0% versus 24.7%, respectively). Globally, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of their nutritional choices. Owing to their busy lifestyles, their purchasing decision is dependent on the nutritional value of the product, which is driving the demand for plant-based ice cream worldwide. Consumers, especially those allergic to milk, are keen to consume plant-based milk products. For example, cow milk allergy is one of the common food allergies in young children. Many Japanese consumers are also lactose-intolerant and do not consume milk or milk products. As of 2022, in Australia, around 1 in 50 babies and young children showed signs of an allergy to cow's milk. Thus, the demand for plant-based dairy products increased gradually. The per capita consumption of non-dairy ice cream grew by 13.27% globally during 2023-2024.

OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT

Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel

Off-Trade Segment in Non-Dairy Ice Cream Market

The off-trade segment dominates the global non-dairy ice cream market, accounting for nearly 100% of the total market share in 2024. Within the off-trade channel, supermarkets and hypermarkets represent the largest distribution format, capturing approximately 65% of sales due to their extensive product selection, considerable shelf space, and frequent promotional activities. These retail channels have maintained their strong position by offering a wide variety of non-dairy ice cream brands and flavors while providing consumers with the convenience of comparing products and reading labels to make informed purchasing decisions. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by the increasing number of supermarket chains expanding their plant-based product sections and dedicating specific freezer spaces for non-dairy alternatives.

Online Retail Segment in Non-Dairy Ice Cream Market

The online retail channel is emerging as the fastest-growing distribution segment in the non-dairy frozen desserts market, with a projected growth rate of approximately 18% during 2024-2029. This remarkable growth is primarily driven by the increasing adoption of e-commerce platforms and the convenience they offer to consumers. The segment's expansion is supported by the rising number of smartphone users globally, with about 86% of the world's population using smartphones in 2024. Major online retailers are strengthening their position by offering extensive product varieties, competitive pricing, and efficient delivery services. The growth is further accelerated by the collaboration between non-dairy ice cream brands and online retailers, along with the integration of advanced cold chain logistics to ensure product quality during delivery.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

The other distribution channels in the non-dairy ice cream market include convenience stores, specialist retailers, and other formats such as warehouse clubs and gas stations. Convenience stores serve as the second most preferred channel after supermarkets/hypermarkets, offering easy access and immediate availability of products. Specialist retailers focus on providing premium and artisanal non-dairy ice cream varieties, catering to specific consumer preferences and dietary requirements. The warehouse clubs and gas stations segment, while smaller in market share, plays a crucial role in extending the reach of non-dairy ice cream products to diverse consumer segments through various touchpoints and locations. Additionally, the availability of an ice cream size chart in these channels assists consumers in selecting the appropriate product size for their needs, enhancing the shopping experience.

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market Geography Segment Analysis

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market in Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific non-dairy ice cream market is experiencing significant growth driven by increasing consumer awareness about health benefits and the rising adoption of plant-based diets. Australia leads the regional market with its strong presence in dairy alternatives. The surge in popularity of plant-based ice cream can be attributed to burgeoning consumer interest in dairy-free desserts and significant improvements in vegan ice cream offerings in terms of accessibility, texture, and flavor. The region's growth is further supported by the expanding vegan population, particularly in countries like India, where a significant portion of the population follows meat-free diets. Manufacturers are focusing on producing low-sugar, less processed ingredients, and label-free ice creams to cater to health-conscious consumers.

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market in Europe

Europe stands as a significant market for the vegan ice cream market, driven by the increasing consciousness of veganism and growing demand for better-for-you product options. The United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy have emerged as the leading markets in the region. The rapid spike in the region's vegan population has bolstered the demand for vegan ice creams, particularly in Germany. The increasing demand for the non-dairy ice cream market is led by millennials with busy lifestyles, hence promoting the consumption of ready-to-eat and on-the-go snacks. The market is witnessing increased interest among populations due to better-for-you product options available across various distribution channels.

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market in Germany

Germany dominates the European dairy-free ice cream market, holding approximately 11% market share in 2024. The country's market is driven by the rising health consciousness among consumers and those with special dietary needs. Non-dairy ice creams were initially developed for consumers with specific dietary requirements, such as lactose intolerance or allergies, but currently, especially among millennials, these ice creams are consumed as a lifestyle choice. The choice is influenced by a combination of health and ethical reasons, evolving taste preferences, and the appeal of novel flavors. German consumers particularly favor ice creams manufactured with natural ingredients using fruits, nuts, and other functional ingredients that have reduced fat content while maintaining delicious taste.

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market in France

France represents the fastest-growing market in Europe, with a projected growth rate of approximately 22% during 2024-2029. The growth is primarily attributed to the increasing number of consumers with lactose intolerance or milk allergies who are actively replacing foods containing lactose or milk proteins in their diets with plant proteins. French consumers are using non-dairy ice creams in various ways, such as standalone desserts and as a replacement for traditional ice creams. The market is particularly strong in central France, where consumers prefer these products in non-dairy beverages such as milkshakes. The baking industry has also embraced non-dairy ice cream as a major ingredient for topping cakes and other bakery desserts. This dynamic growth positions the French ice cream market as a key player in the European landscape.

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market in Middle East

The Middle Eastern non-dairy ice cream market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the evolving plant-based food trend in the region, allowing people to explore different ways to diversify their food intake and become more health-conscious. Consumers view plant-based food products as a healthier option to dairy-based products due to characteristics like lower fat and calorie content. The market is witnessing increased product innovation and variety in terms of flavors and formulations to meet the diverse preferences of consumers in the region.

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market in United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates leads the Middle Eastern market, driven by evolving consumer habits spurred by the presence of a substantial number of expatriates. This has led to variations in the product range, including the availability of diverse non-dairy ice cream options in the market. The country's market benefits from the presence of both international brands and domestic players, with local brands actively involved in the plant-based product market to capture the growing consumer base. Some local brands and vegan stores have emerged as key players in offering innovative non-dairy ice cream products.

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia represents the fastest-growing market in the Middle East region, with growth driven by increasing health consciousness and the rising trend of veganism. The country has witnessed a significant shift in consumer preferences towards plant-based alternatives, particularly among the health-conscious population. The market growth is supported by the expanding retail infrastructure and increasing availability of non-dairy ice cream products through various distribution channels, including online platforms and specialty stores.

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market in North America

The North American vegan ice cream market demonstrates strong growth potential, driven by increasing health consciousness and rising demand for plant-based alternatives. The region benefits from the presence of several well-established manufacturers, with six of the top nineteen vegan product producers based in the United States. The market is characterized by innovative product offerings, diverse flavors, and expanding distribution networks through both traditional and modern retail channels.

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market in United States

The United States dominates the North American market, holding approximately 47% market share in 2024. The country's market is driven by the rising health consciousness and increasing prevalence of lactose intolerance among consumers. The market benefits from a well-developed retail infrastructure, with major retailers offering a wide variety of non-dairy ice cream products. The country has witnessed significant product innovation, with manufacturers introducing new flavors and formulations to meet diverse consumer preferences.

Non-dairy Ice Cream Market in Mexico

Mexico emerges as the fastest-growing market in North America, with a projected growth rate of approximately 13% during 2024-2029. The growth is primarily attributed to the rising number of health-conscious consumers and increasing cases of obesity in the country. Mexican consumers are increasingly seeking better dietary habits, driving the demand for healthier alternatives like non-dairy ice cream. The market is supported by a growing retail infrastructure and increasing availability of products through various distribution channels.

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