Ice cream lovers are sweet on vanilla.
The classic flavor ranked first for the second year in the annual survey of International Ice Cream Association (I.I.C.A.) member companies, which make and distribute about 85% of the ice cream and frozen dessert products consumed nationally.
“From the rich, creaminess of a scoop of vanilla-bean premium ice cream to the convenience of a perfectly portion-controlled ice cream confection, our member companies are making a wide range of flavors and product types that allow consumers to choose the treat that appeals to them,” said Peggy Armstrong, vice-president of communications for the International Dairy Foods Association.
Chocolate rated second, ahead of butter pecan, coffee, Neapolitan and Rocky Road.
While higher-fat premium ice cream was deemed the most favorable variety among consumers, about half of ice cream companies reported an increased demand for frozen yogurt, and nearly 15% observed a rise in requests for no-sugar-added ice cream.
Hot fudge and sprinkles proved most popular among toppings. Consumers also are nutty for pecans, almonds and peanuts, and 86% of companies said strawberry was the top fruit addition, followed by cherry.
Ice cream sandwiches and on-a-stick varieties notched first among novelties, ahead of bars, push-ups, 4-oz tubes and mini cups.
