Don't allow a milk allergy, lactose intolerance, or a vegan diet prevent you from enjoying your favorite ice cream flavor. When the weather rises, and you need a chilly treat, simply reach for dairy-free ice cream. Products including coconut milk, cashew milk, soy, avocado, and other plant-based components are becoming increasingly popular—no dairy required.

The global non-dairy ice cream industry will reach $1 billion by 2026, according to Global Marketing Insights, Inc. So, whether you're looking for a dairy-free alternative to your regular with a scoop or two, or you're a dessert enthusiast who wants to try everything, keep reading for all you need to know about eating dairy-free.

What is Nondairy Ice Cream?

Dairy-free ice cream is manufactured without the use of any milk, especially cow's milk. It's not made using low-fat or skim milk, or anything else of the kind. Dairy-free frozen desserts often replace normal milk with plant-based milk such as almond, soy, coconut, or cashew milk; however, there are some great brands that go even farther, with some going as far as using oat, maize, and potato to create a taste that's indistinguishable from dairy. Down below are some further examples of replacements for traditional dairy milk:

• Almond and Cashew Milk

• Coconut/Cream Milk

• Soy Milk

• Rice Milk

• Hemp Milk

• Oat Milk

Dairy-free ice cream may seem outlandish to some, but that's understandable given how new the concept is. Maybe it seems strange, like cheese-free mac and cheese or chocolate-free chocolate chip cookies.

Are Nondairy Ice Creams Healthier?

If you're lactose intolerant, dairy-free ice cream is definitely a much better option than the normal variety. Lactose intolerance is a condition where a person is missing the enzyme needed to digest lactose, which is found in dairy products.

However, if you're not lactose intolerant, the answer is not so clear. Many non-dairy ice cream brands have extra sugar and fat, which can counterbalance the benefits of going dairy-free. For example, a half-cup serving of regular store-bought ice cream contains about 11 grams of fat, compared to non-dairy ice cream, which can be up to eight times. If you're trying to eat a low-fat diet, then dairy-free ice cream may not be a good choice.

Does Dairy-Free Also Mean Lactose-Free?

The quick answer is that dairy-free and lactose-free are not similar.

Lactose-free items are usually manufactured from dairy. Lactose is a sugar found naturally in (dairy) milk. Lactose digestion requires the presence of enzymes known as "lactase," which break down lactose in the body. Lactose intolerance occurs when the body does not create enough of this enzyme to digest lactose effectively. Something branded "lactose-free" is often prepared from animal dairy, but the lactose has already been broken down.

Having said that, some products are lactose-free but are not made from lactose-free animal milk. It's always good to check your ingredient list to know what you're up against!

Dairy-free items contain no dairy whatsoever. So it all comes back to why you're interested in dairy-free. Is it your intention to eliminate dairy from your diet, or are you simply lactose intolerant? If you want to eliminate dairy entirely, stick to vegan, dairy-free ice cream.

Conclusion

If you have a dairy allergy or choose to eat a vegan diet, then don't let ice cream stop you from enjoying a frozen dessert every now and then. With so many options, you can easily find a variety that suits your taste buds and dietary preferences. Also, keep in mind that so many different brands of dairy-free ice cream are now available that the future is looking very bright for those who can't (or won't) eat dairy.

If you want your guests to have a really good time at your party or event, then you might want to mix it up by hiring an ice cream truck! Besties Ice Cream Truck is always equipped to have everything you need to have an ice cream party anywhere. Whenever you need ice cream on wheels for events, Besties Ice Cream Truck will be there. Book our ice cream truck and make your event stand out!