From protein-packed pints to PB&J nostalgia, the dairy aisle is transforming—and Jogue was on the ground at the 2024 Ice Cream & Cultured Innovation Conference to taste what’s next. Here’s a snapshot of the trends driving innovation in frozen and cultured dairy, and how Jogue is helping brands stay ahead of the flavor curve.
📈 A Rebound for DairyAfter decades of decline, fluid milk saw a slight uptick (+0.1%) in retail volume in 2024, thanks to growing demand for:
- Lactose-free and A2 options
- Value-added products across bulk and foodservice
- A shift in at-home consumption habits that started during the pandemic
And it’s not just milk—all dairy categories saw growth, with consumers reaching for high-protein, functional, and fun.
🔬 Top 10 Formulation Trends We’re Watching
- Sugar Reduction: Lower sugar without losing flavor—something Jogue does best.
- Protein, Front and Center: Whether it’s whey, milk, or plant-based, clear protein communication is key.
- Clean Label Simplicity: Minimal, transparent ingredients matter more than ever.
- Women’s Health: Dairy innovations are tapping into life-stage nutrition and wellness.
- Gut Health: Probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics are becoming essential.
- Newstalgia: Nostalgic flavors with a modern twist—think cereal milk, PB&J, or breakfast-for-dessert.
- Swicy (Sweet + Spicy): A flavor mashup that keeps consumers curious.
- Texture Play: Filled, topped, layered—multi-texture = multi-sensory.
- Choco Craving: Bits, pieces, ribbons of indulgence are driving decisions.
- Flavor Wowza: Surprising profiles that stand out—yes, even breast milk-inspired ice cream made headlines.
🧀 The Cottage Cheese Comeback
With over 20% sales growth, cottage cheese is having a moment. Expect to see it beyond the tub in:
- Pizza crusts
- High-protein dips
- Frozen treats
- Indulgent pairings and sidecars
Jogue is ready to help bring bold flavor to this booming space.
🍦 Frozen & Dairy-Free Go Creative
From cauliflower-based dessert launches to collagen-enriched smoothies, innovation is exploding. Some favorites:
- EatKinda (NZ): Cauliflower-based ice cream
- Unilever x Haribo: Push-pops with gummy swirls
- Wells x Ferrara: “100 Grand” frozen mashup
- Lifeway: Collagen smoothies & dressings
- Yakult & Danone: Functional shots targeting stress & gut health
💪 Protein is King—Especially for GLP Users
Protein is more than a macro—it’s a strategy. With GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic changing the nutrition landscape, consumers are reaching for:
- High-protein, lactose-free snacks
- Portion-controlled indulgence
- Meal replacements with function
Jogue helps brands tailor flavor to meet the moment—without compromising experience.
🎨 Clean Color Counts
Color is under a microscope, especially artificial dyes like Red 3, Yellow 5 & 6. With bans gaining traction across the U.S., natural alternatives like betalains from beets are becoming flavor-neutral heroes—though they come with pH and heat sensitivity that Jogue’s formulation team is already navigating.
🧁 Flavor & Texture Drive Treat Culture
Consumers are looking for comfort, indulgence, and experience:
- Top Trending Flavors: Strawberry Matcha, Spicy Honey, Miso Caramel, Chicory
- Textures that Win: Crunchy inclusions, gooey centers, playful layers
And nostalgia sells—56% of shoppers seek it. Expect to see more Animal Cookies, Dole Whip, and Dirty Shirley ice cream riffs this summer.
Ready to Create the Future of Flavor?
Whether you’re developing a new cottage cheese concept, exploring clean-label indulgence, or building the next viral texture trend, Jogue is your partner in flavor innovation.
Let’s make it delicious.
