July 11, 2025 – Ice cream trends in the US and Canada can be evaluated by looking at several key areas: ice cream bases, craftsmanship, planet-friendliness, plant-based, and excitement.
Innovation with Ice Cream Bases
Brands can demonstrate their ice cream innovation through different ice cream bases and textures. These bases range from traditional dairy to various plant-based options. Bases add novelty and many US and Canadian consumers are eating more ice cream because of the variety. Some choices of ice cream base include a dairy base, oats, fruit, nuts, and legumes. Brands can be creative while also providing different types of ice cream textures. Consumer trends research in the US and Canada shows that many consumers associate product quality with sensory features like texture, as well as taste and aroma. Consumers want fresh experiences so brands can attract them with formats that are creative.
Authentic and Local Ice Creams
Ice cream brands can use local ingredients and incorporate different cultures to provide a memorable taste experience. Appealing ice cream features include handcrafted and gourmet. Ice cream brands that have single-origin ingredients in small-batch, creamery-style products convey both quality and authenticity. US and Canadian consumers also are interested in tradition and cultural, supporting Innova’s Top 10 Trend 2025 of Tradition Reinvented. According to consumer trends research, key ice cream features desired by consumers in the US and Canada are local ingredients, cultural heritage, handcrafted, gourmet, homestyle, authentic, and indulgent. These features help products feel artisanal and higher quality.
Excitement in Planet Friendliness
Ice cream trends show that companies can attract North American consumers with both playfulness and environmental friendliness. Grass-fed, sustainable, ethical, and regenerative practices resonate with consumers looking for sustainability. Ice cream in compostable packaging further emphasizes commitment to protect the environment. Since consumers in the US and Canada say they pay attention to nature protection-related claims, brands can emphasize the recyclable and compostable features of their packaging.
Ice Cream Transparency in the US and Canada
Consumer trends research suggests that US and Canadian ice cream consumers seek transparency, inclusivity, and plant-based options in ice cream. Use of clean ingredients and natural sweeteners convey healthy indulgence. Plant-based versions of ice cream can be appealing. Transparency through short ingredient lists with real and simple ingredients can build consumer trust. When US and Canadian participants in consumer trends research were asked about influences on their ice cream purchases, they named real and natural ingredients without artificial colors or flavors. Ice cream packaging with cartoon characters or movie characters can attract fans. Variety can be expanded through more ice cream options, for example, lower fat and lower sugar choices. Healthier options can be both better-for-you and indulgent. Assortment packages can bring joy to US and Canadian ice cream consumers. In plant-based, North American consumers tell consumer trends researchers that plant-based ice cream could be improved to be creamier, smoother, and richer. At the same time, ice cream trends indicate that consumers in the US and Canada want ingredients that are simple and natural in products that are both healthy and familiar.
Limited Edition Ice Cream Boosts Excitement
Ice cream brands can boost excitement through flavors, seasonal offerings, and exclusive deals. Innova Market Insights has been tracking solid growth in product launches with premium and indulgent claims. Example of boldness and indulgence include coffee, tea, and cocktail flavors. Seasonal and limited-time offers are relevant and may appeal to consumer emotions. North American consumers report being highly influenced by seasonal and limited-time offers, which feel exclusive and invite impulse buys. Luxury flavors that convey indulgence and premium value can attract consumers with a more refined palate. Flavor fusions across categories offer an unexpected, exciting, and tasty twist.
North American Ice Cream Facts
The US has the most ice cream launches in North America. Launches show solid year-over-year growth in ice cream product launches between April 2023 and March 2025. Wells Enterprises leads other North American companies in the number of ice cream launches. Looking at health claims, high/source of protein is the fastest growing in the US and Canada ice cream marketplace. Ice cream trends reveal that butter pecan is the fastest growing North American flavor.
What’s Next for Ice Cream in the US and Canada?
Provide innovative, sustainable ice cream packaging solutions. One option is pouches with a spout for on-the-go enjoyment. Floral ingredients add unique flavors and subtle aromas for a fresh and natural product profile. Or try bold and complex flavors like spicy flavors that create a sense of adventure for US and Canadian consumers. To boost sustainability, reduce food waste, and appeal to consumers who care about the environment, use upcycled ice cream ingredients that also are high in nutrition. Explore the benefits of smart labels for ice cream products. These can provide consumers with additional information that doesn’t fit on the package label. Brands can build trust and engagement with consumers by offering them a way to access additional information on products and ingredients.
This article is based on Innova’s Overview in Ice Cream in the US & Canada report. This report is available to purchase or with an Innova Reports subscription. Reach out to find out more
