The ice cream and frozen dessert market is projected to reach USD 148,672.5 million by 2025 and is expected to grow to USD 306,418.7 million by 2035, reflecting a CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period. The market has evolved from traditional ice creams to a wide variety of products, including dairy-free, low-fat, and health-conscious alternatives.
Changing consumer preferences, such as the demand for premium and artisanal ice cream, are driving growth in the market, with significant advancements in frozen dessert textures and flavors. Innovations in ingredients and production processes, alongside rising consumer health awareness, are reshaping the industry landscape.
Key drivers of the market include the increasing preference for indulgent yet health-conscious dessert options. Frozen yogurt, which holds a dominant share of the market, is gaining popularity due to its perceived health benefits, while the increasing trend of low-calorie and dairy-free alternatives is also supporting market expansion. Furthermore, growing disposable incomes, especially in emerging markets such as India and China, are expected to drive the demand for premium frozen desserts, fostering further growth.
| Attributes | Description |
|---|---|
| Estimated Global Industry Size (2025 E) | USD 148,672.5 Million |
| Projected Global Industry Value (2035 F) | USD 306,418.7 Million |
| Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 7.5% |
Supermarkets remain the largest distribution channel, offering a wide range of frozen desserts at competitive prices and providing consumers with convenient access to these products. E-commerce and home delivery services have also become crucial in improving accessibility to frozen desserts, particularly for health-conscious consumers seeking more personalized options.
The Asia-Pacific region, especially India and China, is witnessing rapid market growth due to urbanization, rising incomes, and a shift toward westernized diets. According to Future Market Insights, the demand for plant-based frozen desserts is also expected to increase significantly as consumer interest in vegan and lactose-free options grows.
Unilever is set to separate its global ice cream business into a standalone entity called "The Magnum Ice Cream Company," expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2025. Another player, Dippin' Dots, is entering the grocery retail space with the launch of Ice Cream Sundaes, marking its first foray into supermarket freezers as per Food Dive. These trends, combined with technological advancements and product innovation, are expected to drive the market's continued expansion.
The ice cream and frozen dessert market is segmented by product type, distribution channel, and region. Product types include frozen yogurt, gelato, sorbet, ice cream bars, and dairy-free desserts. Distribution channels range from supermarkets, online platforms, convenience stores, and specialty shops to foodservice outlets. Geographically, the market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa, each exhibiting unique preferences and growth trends.
Frozen yogurt dominates the market with 87% share in 2025. The market for frozen yogurt enhancers is experiencing rapid growth as consumers opt for healthier dessert alternatives. Industrial frozen yogurt is enhanced with probiotics, natural sweeteners, and plant-based materials, aligning with the health-conscious movement. This trend allows consumers to indulge in their favorite treats while satisfying their desire for nutritious options.
Supermarkets lead with 38% share in the market in 2025. Supermarkets continue to dominate the ice cream and frozen dessert market, benefiting from their ability to offer a wide range of products at competitive prices. These retailers attract a diverse customer base, from budget-conscious shoppers to those seeking premium frozen dessert options.
The ice cream and frozen dessert market is embracing new trends with the introduction of enhanced textures, nostalgic flavors, CBD-infused options, and boozy ice creams. These innovations, along with the growing popularity of healthier alternatives and e-commerce, are transforming the industry and attracting diverse consumer groups.
Increase in Demand for Food with Low-Calorie Content Will Impede Growth
The market is expected to experience a slowdown in growth due to rising health concerns among consumers. As more people focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, there is a growing demand for products with low-calorie content and beneficial health properties. Additionally, an increasing number of brands are focusing on minimizing ice recrystallization in their products. However, this may result in a coarse and grainy texture in ice creams and frozen desserts, which could be unappealing to customers as the ice crystals are easily detectable.
Growing Interest in CBD-Infused Ice Creams for Relaxation and Wellness
Consumers are increasingly choosing CBD-infused ice cream due to its unique combination of pleasure and medical benefits. CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-intoxicating cannabis extract that has gained widespread popularity for its potential to relieve stress, anxiety, and pain, making it suitable for various wellness products.
The addition of CBD to ice cream offers consumers a fresh approach to experiencing health benefits while enjoying this popular frozen dessert. Each portion of CBD-infused ice cream is infused with CBD oil, ensuring consistent health properties throughout. This creative product offers both sweetness and relaxation, combining pleasure with calming effects, making it an attractive alternative for those seeking stress relief.
Growing Changes in Lifestyle to Increase Sales
Ice cream and frozen desserts are classified as ready-to-eat meals or convenience foods that can be consumed anywhere and anytime. Today’s consumers, leading busy lifestyles, often lack the time to prepare meals, making ready-to-eat options like ice cream and frozen desserts increasingly appealing.
As a result, consumers are more willing to spend on these indulgent products. Moreover, the growing popularity of yogurt and ice cream among consumers further supports the global growth of the market. The ice cream and frozen dessert market is expected to witness robust growth over the forecast period.
The following table shows the estimated growth rates of sales in three significant geographies. The USA and Germany are expected to exhibit high consumption, recording CAGRs of 3.9% and 4.7%, respectively, through 2035.
| Countries | CAGR, 2025 to 2035 |
|---|---|
| USA | 3.9% |
| Germany | 4.7% |
| India | 5.7% |
Demand for ice cream and frozen dessert is likely to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% during the forecast period. In the United States, there has been a strong increase in consumer demand for reduced-calorie ice cream products that are also keto-friendly and contain dairy-free ingredients. Rising health consciousness has led consumers to prioritize healthier dietary choices to protect their well-being.
Sales of ice cream and frozen dessert is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% in Germany. In Germany, the demand for lactose-free, vegan, and allergen-free frozen desserts has been driven by a growing focus on health-conscious diets and individual dietary preferences.
The market in India is likely to generate a demand at a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period. In India, the rising disposable incomes and shifting urban lifestyles are significantly boosting the demand for indulgent, premium ice creams. As more consumers experience increased purchasing power, a larger portion of disposable income is being allocated to luxury frozen desserts.
The competitive landscape of the ice cream and frozen dessert market is dominated by major global players such as Nestlé, Unilever, General Mills, Dippin’ Dots, and Blue Bell Creameries. These companies leverage strong brand equity, extensive product portfolios, and vast distribution networks to maintain their leadership in the market.
The industry is highly competitive, with established firms focusing on innovation, the introduction of health-conscious options, and premium offerings. Newer brands are challenging the leaders with niche products, including dairy-free, plant-based, and functional frozen desserts. Regional players are also adapting by offering products tailored to local consumer preferences, while larger multinationals expand their reach through acquisitions and strategic partnerships, particularly in rapidly growing markets across Asia Pacific.
Ice cream and frozen dessert manufacturers are exploring new product lines that meet the rising consumer demand for healthier, indulgent alternatives. Key players are collaborating with other organizations to explore untapped markets and expand their product offerings.
Recent Ice Cream and Frozen Dessert Industry News
By Type Ice Cream and Frozen Dessert Market is segmented as Frozen Yogurt, Frozen Cakes, Ice Cream, Others
By Distribution Channel Ice Cream and Frozen Dessert Market is segmented as Super markets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Specialty Stores, Others
The market is analyzed across North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, South Asia & Pacific, East Asia, Central Asia, Balkan and Baltic countries, Russia and Belarus, and the Middle East & Africa.
The industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period.
By 2035, the market is estimated to reach USD 306,418.7 million in sales value.
Italy is expected to dominate global consumption.
Leading manufacturers include Baskin-Robbins, Nestlé SA, Unilever, and Danone Groupe SA.
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Ice Cream and Frozen Dessert Market
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