Brazil's Ice Cream Industry Sees Growth Amid Changing Consumer Trends
The Brazilian ice cream market is experiencing significant changes as companies adapt to consumer demands for healthier and more convenient options. Vagner Paulo Ribeiro, a master ice cream maker with DR Aromas e Ingredientes, explained that the company has invested in new ingredients to lower saturated fat content, achieving the removal of the 'high in saturated fat' label. This shift towards healthier desserts is a trend the company has been focusing on for the past decade.
Ice cream sold in tubs and directly at parlors accounts for 69.6% of purchases in Brazil, with chocolate, strawberry, and cream remaining the most popular flavors. Eduardo Coutinho, who recently led a discussion on Generation Z's consumer behavior, noted that 60% of an ice cream shop's menu still needs to consist of these leading flavors. He added that pairing chocolate with other ingredients can attract younger consumers seeking visually appealing desserts.
The climate also influences ice cream demand, with the El Niño phenomenon expected to bring higher-than-average temperatures to cities like Curitiba, potentially boosting summer sales. Conversely, the challenge of decreased winter sales was addressed with solutions like affogato and ice cream paired with wine to maintain consumer interest during colder months.
Andrea Lopes Caneviski of Sorveteria Fabiana in Colombo, Paraná, commented on the introduction of new ideas to combat the winter sales slump, noting that innovations bring renewed energy to businesses.
Demographic changes are also impacting the industry. With the average household size in Brazil dropping to three people and 18% of households comprising a single resident, there is a growing trend of consuming ice cream in smaller portions as a quick snack. This has led to an increase in demand for smaller, more practical packaging.
Paraná is highlighted as a key region for the ice cream industry, being the fourth largest employer in Brazil's frozen dessert sector and contributing 9.78% of the national production. The state's industry is largely composed of micro and small enterprises, with 96% of businesses in the sector falling under this category.
