Global Vegan Ice Cream Market to Reach $1.11 Billion by 2033 – Steady Growth Fueled by Plant-Based Trends

Vegan Ice Cream Market Analysis

Shifting consumer preferences, more health consciousness, and greater ethical and environmental awareness are driving a spectacular growth in the global vegan ice cream business. Vegan Ice Cream Market is expected to reach US$ 1,110.08 million by 2033 from US$ 737.40 million in 2024, with a CAGR of 4.65% from 2025 to 2033. This robust expansion reflects a broader trend toward plant-based diets and sustainable food choices, positioning vegan ice cream as a dynamic and influential segment within the global frozen desserts industry.

The growing awareness of health, wellness, and sustainability is prompting many Americans to make significant lifestyle changes, including a shift toward plant-based diets. Customers who purchase vegan ice cream are frequently aware of the possible negative health effects of dairy consumption, including increased cholesterol and blood sugar. Furthermore, sustainability concerns heavily influence their choices—many individuals are opting for vegan alternatives to reduce the environmental impact of dairy farming, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and excessive water usage. Vegan ice cream, with its lower carbon footprint, appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. Ethical considerations regarding animal welfare also play a significant role, as more people adopt vegan diets to avoid supporting industries linked to animal exploitation.

Key information covered in the report.

• Base Year - 2024
• Historical Period - 2021-2024
• Market Forecast - 2025-2033
• Market - US$ Million

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The United States has emerged as a leading market for vegan ice cream, driven by the increasing preference for plant-based diets. According to the World Population Review, about 3% of Americans identified as vegan in 2024, a number that continues to rise, particularly among younger, health-conscious consumers. Many are turning to plant-based options to avoid issues like lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, and the high saturated fat content found in traditional ice cream. Typically made from plant-based milks, vegan ice creams offer a healthier and more inclusive option. Additionally, flavor innovation is fueling market growth—while classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla remain favorites, brands are increasingly introducing unique and exotic flavors to cater to adventurous tastes.

Key Drivers of the Vegan Ice Cream Market

Rising Awareness of Environmental Sustainability and Animal Welfare

The demand for vegan ice cream is being driven by consumers' growing emphasis on making ethical and environmentally responsible eating choices. Concerns about greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water usage associated with traditional dairy farming are encouraging a shift toward plant-based alternatives. Vegan ice cream, which is free from animal-derived ingredients, is viewed as a more sustainable option. Ethical considerations, particularly regarding animal welfare, also significantly influence consumer choices, as many individuals prefer vegan products to avoid supporting industries linked to animal exploitation. In response to this demand, brands are expanding their offerings. For instance, Magnum launched its vegan blueberry cookie ice cream in February 2024, featuring a sorbet center coated in vegan milk chocolate, available in stick and multipack formats.

Prevalence of Lactose Intolerance and Dairy Allergies

The prevalence of lactose intolerance and dairy allergies is another significant element driving the market for vegan ice cream. Many individuals cannot digest lactose, the sugar found in dairy products, while others experience severe allergic reactions to dairy. This has created a strong demand for dairy-free alternatives made from plant-based ingredients like cashew, almond, coconut, and soy. In response, leading companies are diversifying their product lines to meet these dietary needs. For example, in 2024, Unilever’s Breyers introduced a new ice cream made with animal-free whey protein, providing a lactose- and cholesterol-free option for health-conscious consumers.

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Regional Insights

North America:

North America is the largest market for vegan ice cream, driven by high consumer awareness, a strong culture of dietary innovation, and robust retail infrastructure. The region is characterized by a high concentration of leading brands and a receptive consumer base open to new food trends.

The US vegan ice cream market is growing due to increased demand for plant-based products and health awareness, with about 6% of Americans identifying as vegan. The rise in lactose intolerance, affecting roughly 36% of the population, further boosts interest in dairy-free options. Ingredients like oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk are popular for their taste and health benefits. The market is fueled by established brands like Ben & Jerry's and Häagen-Dazs, as well as a consumer preference for unique flavors and clean-label products. Increased e-commerce and supermarket availability, along with environmental concerns over dairy farming, contribute to the shift toward sustainable plant-based alternatives.

Competitive Landscape

The global vegan ice cream market is highly competitive, featuring a mix of multinational food giants, specialized plant-based brands, and innovative startups. Key players include:

•            Unilever (Magnum, Ben & Jerry’s)

•            Danone (So Delicious)

•            Nestlé (Häagen-Dazs, Tofutti)

•            Oatly

•            Halo Top

•            NadaMoo!

•            Trader Joe’s (private label)

•            Van Leeuwen

These companies are investing heavily in research and development, flavor innovation, and marketing to capture market share and differentiate their offerings. The competitive environment is further intensified by the entry of smaller, niche brands focusing on unique flavors, local ingredients, and sustainability initiatives.

The Greatest Ice Cream for Vegans

Van Leeuwen Vegan Peanut Butter Ice Cream

The Van Leeuwen peanut butter flavor is one of the richest vegan ice creams. Its base—a creamy blend of peanut butter, coconut cream, cashew milk, coconut oil, and cocoa butter—provides a hearty, indulgent texture that feels both satisfying and wholesome. Each pint is generously swirled with sweet and salty peanut butter, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with mix-ins for a dynamic experience.

While the honeycomb pieces were somewhat sparse and the brownie bits lacked depth in chocolate flavor, the overall experience remains enjoyable—especially for peanut butter enthusiasts. It is also devoid of gluten, which makes it a fantastic choice for anyone who follow certain dietary guidelines. Although this was the only Van Leeuwen flavor tested in this review, the brand’s plant-based line is worth exploring for its variety and creativity.

Base Ingredients:

·        Coconut cream

·        Cashew milk

·        Coconut oil

·        Cocoa butter

Allergens:

•                   Peanuts

•                   Cashews

•                   Coconut

McConnell’s Vegan Passion Fruit Lemon Swirl Ice Cream

McConnell’s vegan ice cream impresses with its bright, refreshing flavor and a tangy, jammy lemon swirl that adds a sherbet-like zing. This pint is perfect for a hot day, offering a well-balanced taste experience, with the lemon swirl cutting sharply through the sweeter passion fruit base, making it stand out among oat milk-based options.

Unlike other oat milk ice creams, McConnell’s version has no off-putting flavors or textures, making it especially enjoyable. This product is also notable for being free from nuts and gluten, which is a rarity in the vegan ice cream category. While it does contain coconut oil, McConnell’s clarifies that the oil is highly refined and exempt from FDA allergen labeling, meaning it doesn’t contain the proteins that typically trigger allergic reactions. However, those with sensitivities should consult their healthcare provider before indulging.

Base Ingredient:

·        Oat milk

Allergen Information: 

·        Free from nuts and gluten 

·        Contains highly refined coconut oil (not classified as a major allergen)

Latest News and Developments in the Vegan Ice Cream Market

1. Eclipse Foods Launches Non-Dairy Ice Cream Bonbons (March 2024) 

In March 2024, Eclipse Foods, a rising star in the vegan ice cream industry, introduced Eclipse Bonbons—a new line of non-dairy ice cream treats designed to replicate the rich flavor and creamy texture of traditional dairy-based bonbons. Created in collaboration with an award-winning chef, these indulgent bites represent a creative expansion of Eclipse's product portfolio, appealing to consumers in search of gourmet plant-based desserts.

2. Magnum Expands Plant-Based Offerings with Chill Blueberry Cookie Flavor (February 2024) 

In February 2024, Magnum, a well-known brand under Unilever, announced plans to expand its vegan product range with the launch of Chill Blueberry Cookie ice cream sticks. This new flavor features a fruity twist combined with cookie indulgence, further demonstrating Magnum's commitment to providing luxurious plant-based options that cater to both ethical and dietary preferences.

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