According to Mintel Global Market Navigator (GMN), the U.S. ice cream market is expected to reach $6.8 million this year.

Mintel Global New Products Database (GNPD) found that premium lines accounted for 9 percent of global ice cream product launches in the last six months, while economy lines represented 4% of global launches. Even though ice cream is often seen as an affordable, sweet indulgence, consumers still express an interest in healthier products. Manufacturers have answered, with 13 percent of all product launches touting a “no additives/preservatives” claim.

Packaging developments are focusing on more eco-friendly or recyclable materials. In the last six months, 13 percent of ice cream products featured an environmentally friendly packaging claim, a 6 percent increase.

“Consumers are clamoring for more eco-friendly products in all food and drink categories, and ice cream is no exception,” adds Anna Lourenco with Mintel. “Companies with environmentally-conscious packaging and practices may be able to get a leg up on their competition.”

In Europe, the flavor of choice is chocolate. In the U.S., vanilla is the flavor of choice, accounting for 11 percent of ice cream product launches in 2009. Chocolate is a close second, with 8 percent.