Ben & Jerry’s Introduces Groundbreaking Oat-Based Vegan Ice Cream Range

Ben & Jerry’s, under the ownership of Unilever, has unveiled its innovative oat-based non-dairy ice cream collection, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s plant-based offerings. The company’s relentless experimentation with flavors and bases has resulted in the development of a new, creamy oat base, aiming to cater to the growing demand for vegan options.

The decision to expand their non-dairy range to 20 flavors comes as a strategic response to consumer demands and Unilever’s ambitious sales targets for 2025. Unilever’s flavor specialist João Piva expressed confidence in this latest oat base, emphasizing its unparalleled taste and texture compared to previous almond and sunflower butter bases.

Throughout Europe, oats have emerged as a staple in plant-based alternatives, with a substantial increase in their usage in dairy-free ice cream formulations. Brands like *** and *** have previously embraced oats as a key ingredient, setting a trend in the industry.

The reformulation process for these ice creams is meticulous, taking into account not only taste but also texture, appearance, and environmental sustainability. Unilever, as a global leader in the ice cream market, is also working on reformulating its entire ice cream range to reduce energy consumption in freezer cabinets, offering incentives to other brands to follow suit.

Consumers can anticipate the launch of Ben & Jerry’s oat-based ice cream range in spring 2024, promising a delectable dairy-free experience that rivals traditional ice cream flavors. The company’s continuous commitment to innovation in the plant-based sector underscores its dedication to sustainability and meeting evolving consumer preferences.