Middle East & Africa Plant-based Ice Cream Market Outlook, 2028

Historically, dairy-based ice cream has been the dominant frozen dessert in the Middle East and Africa. These regions have a long tradition of consuming dairy products like milk, cream, and yogurt, which influenced the preference for dairy ice cream. Middle Eastern and African cuisines are deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions, which have typically included the consumption of dairy products. This has posed challenges for the adoption of plant-based alternatives. In recent years, there has been a global trend towards healthier eating, including a rise in lactose intolerance awareness and a growing interest in plant-based diets. These trends have started to influence consumer choices in the Middle East and Africa, creating a demand for dairy-free options. The influence of Western food trends and the spread of information through the internet and social media have introduced the concept of plant-based eating to Middle Eastern and African consumers. This exposure has contributed to the acceptance of plant-based ice cream. As the demand for plant-based ice cream has grown, producers in these regions have started to experiment with local ingredients and flavors, creating unique and culturally relevant vegan ice cream options. For example, flavors inspired by Middle Eastern desserts and fruits have become popular. Local and regional ice cream manufacturers have been quick to respond to the demand for plant-based ice cream. Many have introduced their own lines of vegan ice cream products to cater to changing consumer preferences. Major retail chains and supermarkets in the Middle East and Africa have begun to stock a variety of plant-based ice cream brands, making these products more accessible to a wider audience. Restaurants, cafes, and dessert shops in urban areas have also embraced plant-based ice cream as part of their menus to cater to the growing vegan and health-conscious customer base. Concerns related to health and sustainability has motivated some consumers to seek dairy-free alternatives. Plant-based ice cream is often perceived as a healthier and more environmentally friendly choice, aligning with these concerns. The Middle East and Africa are culturally and ethnically diverse regions, which mean that there is a wide range of consumer preferences and dietary needs. Plant-based ice cream caters to this diversity by offering options suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

According to the research report, “Middle East & Africa Plant-based Ice Cream Market Outlook, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the market was valued at USD 166 Million in 2022. The region has a large young population that drives consumer trends in the food and beverage sector. Consumers are more conscious about their health and the impact of their food choices on the planet. As a result, they are seeking plant-based alternatives that can replicate the taste and satisfaction of animal meat but with lower risks of chronic diseases. In this regard, the introduction of vegan meat brands such as VBites supports the plant-based food and beverage market’s development. The United Arab Emirates consumers, especially the younger demographic, are becoming aware of their health and sustainability. In addition to growing consumer awareness, favorable government policies and company initiatives contribute to the growth of the plant-based food and beverage market across the UAE. For instance, IFFCO Group established the first 100% plant-based meat factory to promote sustainable food consumption. In addition to that, Conagra Brands is a leading manufacturer and distributor of branded food products, offering a diverse range of shelf-stable food items, frozen foods, sauces, and more. With well-known brands such as Duncan Hines, Marie Callender’s, and Slim Jim, as well as emerging brands like Angie’s BOOMCHICKAPOP and Gardein, Conagra caters to retail and food service channels. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, it operates manufacturing facilities and sales offices across several countries, including the Middle East and Africa.

Increasing awareness of health and wellness has prompted many individuals in the Middle East and Africa to seek out healthier dessert options. Plant-based ice cream, which is often lower in saturated fat and cholesterol compared to traditional dairy ice cream, appeals to health-conscious consumers. Lactose intolerance is relatively common in the Middle East and Africa, leading to discomfort and digestive issues when consuming dairy products. Plant-based ice cream, which is dairy-free, provides a suitable alternative for individuals with lactose intolerance. The adoption of vegan and vegetarian diets is on the rise in these regions, driven by ethical, environmental, and health considerations. Plant-based ice cream aligns with the dietary choices of these consumers. The Middle East and Africa have rich culinary traditions with an abundance of fruits, nuts, and spices. Plant-based ice cream producers in these regions often draw inspiration from local ingredients, creating flavors that resonate with the cultural and regional preferences of consumers. Increased access to information through the internet and social media has exposed consumers in the Middle East and Africa to global food trends, including the popularity of plant-based diets and products like plant-based ice cream. As urbanization continues in many parts of the Middle East and Africa, consumers in urban centers have greater access to a wider variety of food options, including plant-based ice cream. Major supermarkets, specialty stores, and even local markets have started stocking a range of plant-based ice cream brands, making these products more accessible to consumers. Restaurants, cafes, and dessert shops in urban areas often include plant-based ice cream options on their menus to cater to the growing demand from customers who follow plant-based or dairy-free diets.

Coconut is one of the most commonly used sources for plant-based ice cream in the Middle East and Africa. Coconut-based ingredients, particularly coconut milk and coconut cream, are popular choices among manufacturers of vegan and dairy-free ice creams in these regions. Coconut milk and cream provide a rich and creamy texture similar to dairy, making them excellent bases for plant-based ice creams. The creamy consistency enhances the mouth-feel of the ice cream, creating a satisfying and indulgent dessert experience. Coconut milk and cream have a relatively neutral flavor profile, which allows them to be used as a base for a wide variety of ice cream flavors without overpowering other ingredients. This neutrality makes it easier to create diverse and appealing flavors. Coconut is a staple ingredient in many Middle Eastern and African cuisines, and its use is culturally familiar. This makes coconut-based plant-based ice cream a natural choice for consumers who are already accustomed to the flavor. Coconut products are readily available in many parts of the Middle East and Africa, making them accessible and cost-effective for manufacturers. Coconut-based ice cream is suitable for vegans and those with common allergies, such as lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. It is also often gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions. Coconut cultivation is often perceived as more environmentally sustainable compared to some other crops, such as dairy cows. This aligns with the growing awareness of sustainability and environmental concerns among consumers in these regions. Coconut can be sourced locally in many parts of the Middle East and Africa, which supports local economies and promotes the use of native ingredients in plant-based ice cream production.

The regulations on plant-based ice cream in the Middle East and Africa are still evolving. As the popularity of plant-based diets grows in the region, it is likely that governments will develop more specific regulations to govern the labeling and marketing of plant-based ice cream. In Israel, plant-based ice cream must be labeled as such and cannot be marketed as "ice cream" unless it contains dairy milk. This is because the Israeli government defines ice cream as a dairy product. In Egypt, there are no specific regulations on plant-based ice cream. However, the Egyptian Food and Drug Authority (FDA) do require all food products to be labeled with their ingredients. This means that plant-based ice cream must be labeled as such, but it can still be marketed as "ice cream." In South Africa, there are no specific regulations on plant-based ice cream. However, the South African Department of Health (DoH) does require all food products to be labeled with their ingredients and allergens. This means that plant-based ice cream must be labeled as such, and it must also be labeled if it contains any allergens. In Morocco, the Moroccan Ministry of Health (MoH) does require all food products to be inspected and approved before they can be sold. This means that plant-based ice cream must be approved by the MoH before it can be sold in Morocco. Nuts are a highly popular and frequently used ingredient in plant-based ice creams in the Middle East and Africa. Varieties such as almond, cashew, pistachio, and walnut are often used to create creamy and nutty-flavored ice creams. For example, pistachio ice cream is a classic and beloved flavor in the region. On the other hand, fruits are widely used in plant-based ice cream across the Middle East and Africa. Tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and passion fruit are popular choices, along with local fruits such as dates, figs, and pomegranates. Fruity flavors provide a refreshing and vibrant taste to the ice cream. Herbs are not as commonly used in ice cream flavors in the Middle East and Africa as fruits and nuts. However, some herbal flavors like mint or basil is used in combination with fruits to create unique and refreshing profiles. Beans are also not typically used as a primary flavor in plant-based ice cream in these regions. However, some types of beans, like chickpeas, are used to create unique and innovative flavors, although this is less common compared to other ingredients.



Key Developments
• In 2023, the Egyptian company Nada Ice Cream launched a line of vegan ice cream made with coconut milk. Nada is a popular Egyptian ice cream brand that has been in business for over 50 years.
• In 2023, the South African company Moo-Free launched a line of vegan ice cream made with oat milk. Moo-Free is a popular South African ice cream brand that was founded in 2017.
• In 2023, the Moroccan company Nature's Heart launched a line of vegan ice cream made with almond milk. Nature's Heart is a popular Moroccan food brand that has been in business for over 20 years.
• In 2022, the Israeli company Grom opened its first vegan ice cream shop in Tel Aviv. Grom is a popular Italian ice cream brand that has over 100 shops worldwide.

Considered in this report
• Geography: Middle East & Africa
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report
• Middle East & Africa Plant-based Ice Cream with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Country-wise Plant-based Ice Cream market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Countries covered in the report
• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa

By Form Type
• Blends
• Singles

By Distribution Channel
• Hypermarkets and Supermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• E-Commerce
• Others

By Product source
• Coconut Milk Based
• Soy Milk Based
• Almond Milk Based
• Cashew Milk
• Rice Milk Based
• Others

By Flavor Type
• Beans
• Nuts
• Fruits
• Herbs
• Others

By Packaging Type
• Tub
• Bag/Sachet

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations and organizations related to the Plant-based Ice Cream industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.