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Ice cream, sorbets, yogurts, gelatos – Desserts galore
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Saturday, 27 September, 2025, 16 : 00 PM [IST]
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Priyanka Kale, D R More & Dr V D Surve
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Frozen desserts are served chilled or frozen, usually with a creamy or icy texture. They are often consumed as a refreshing treat during the hot summer or as a dessert after a meal. There are different types of frozen desserts available in the market, such as ice cream, sorbets, yogurts, and gelatos. One of the most common frozen desserts is ice cream, which is made from a mixture of milk, cream, sugar, and flavourings such as vanilla, chocolate, or fruit. Frozen yogurt, on the other hand, is a healthier alternative to ice cream, made from yogurt instead of cream. It is generally lower in fat and calories and can be served with a variety of toppings. Frozen desserts are marketed in a wide range of flavours, textures, and ingredients.
Major companies operating in India frozen dessert market are: Creambell (RJ Corp.), Gelato Vinto, Hindustan Unilever Limited, Keventer Group, Lazza Ice Cream, Menchie’s India, Vadilal Industries Limited, Cocoberry Restaurants and Distributors Private Limited, Prestige Ice Creams Pvt. Ltd, and Team24 Marketing India Pvt. Ltd.
The inflating per capita of individuals and the growing product demand from expanding middle-class consumers represent one of the key factors driving the frozen dessert market growth in India. Besides this, rapid urbanisation, a sizable young generation, changing dietary habits, and the growing demand for processed and convenience food products that can be easily consumed on the go are creating a favourable outlook for the market. Moreover, the shifting consumer preference for premium brands and high-quality frozen products over traditional dairy-based ice creams, combined with the surging popularity of artisanal and gourmet frozen desserts, is acting as another significant growth-inducing factor. In addition to this, the bolstering growth of the food service industry, including restaurants, cafes, and ice cream parlours, and emerging trends of food tourism are impelling the demand for frozen desserts in the country.
Concurrent with this, with the expansion of modern retail chains and the proliferation of numerous e-commerce platforms, there has been an increase in the variety of frozen desserts available to consumers, which, in turn, is contributing to the market growth. Furthermore, ongoing product innovations, the launch of a wide range of non-traditional flavours and unique combinations, and the adoption of appealing packaging solutions are providing lucrative opportunities for the market. In line with this, the introduction of healthier, low-sugar, low-calorie, vegan, and dairy-free dessert options due to the escalating health consciousness among consumers is positively impacting the market growth.
In 2023, the India Frozen Dessert Market has achieved a valuation of $3.20 billion and is poised for robust growth in the forecast period, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.5% through 2029. The India frozen dessert market has undergone significant growth and transformation in recent years, driven by evolving consumer tastes and preferences, as well as the food industry's ability to adapt to meet these changing demands.
Indian consumers have become increasingly adventurous in their dessert choices, actively seeking innovative and diverse options that extend beyond traditional sweets. This shift in preferences has propelled the demand for a wide variety of frozen desserts, including ice creams, gelato, sorbets, frozen yogurts and more.
The expanding middle-class population in India, coupled with rising disposable incomes, has made frozen desserts more accessible to a larger segment of the population. Consequently, consumers are more inclined to indulge in premium frozen dessert offerings.
The proliferation of urban centres and the expansion of modern retail outlets, such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, and specialty dessert stores, have simplified access to a diverse range of frozen desserts for consumers, thereby contributing to market growth.
Many consumers are actively seeking healthier dessert options, which has led to the popularity of frozen yogurts and low-fat or sugar-free variants. Brands that offer these healthier alternatives have gained a competitive advantage.
Brands have been responsive to consumer demands for novelty and variety by introducing innovative flavours, textures, and formats. These include fusion flavours, artisanal creations, and customised desserts.
There is a growing demand for dairy-free and vegan frozen desserts, prompting brands to introduce plant-based options made from ingredients like coconut, almond, and soy milk. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for high-quality and artisanal frozen desserts, which has driven the growth of gourmet and craft ice cream shops.
With the expansion of e-commerce and food delivery platforms, consumers can now conveniently order their favourite frozen desserts online, further contributing to market expansion. Made-to-order desserts and personalised toppings have gained popularity, allowing consumers to create unique dessert experiences.
The Indian frozen dessert market is influenced by seasonal variations, with higher consumption during warmer months, necessitating strategic planning by brands to maintain sales throughout the year. The market is fiercely competitive, with numerous players vying for consumer attention. Brands must continuously innovate and differentiate themselves. While there is a demand for healthier options, consumers remain conscious of the nutritional content of frozen desserts, presenting a challenge for brands to strike the right balance.
Here are some key aspects of the current scenario in the Indian dessert industry:
1. Diverse Offerings
Traditional Indian Sweets: Traditional desserts such as gulab jamun, jalebi, rasgulla, and laddoo remain popular, especially during festivals and celebrations. These are often sold through local sweet shops, which have a strong foothold in the market.
Western Desserts: There is a rising demand for Western-style desserts like cakes, pastries, brownies, and cookies. Bakeries and patisseries have seen growth in urban areas, catering to the younger generation's tastes.
Fusion Desserts: Combining traditional Indian flavours with Western dessert styles has become a trend. Examples include Gulab Jamun Cheesecake and Rasmalai Tiramisu. These fusion offerings appeal to the experimental tastes of urban consumers.
Ice Creams and Frozen Desserts: The ice cream segment is robust, with many local and international brands competing. Innovations like low-calorie options, natural ingredients, and exotic flavours have become common.
Healthy and Artisanal Desserts: With growing health consciousness, there is a shift towards healthier dessert options, including sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan desserts. Artisanal desserts, which focus on high-quality, natural ingredients, are also gaining popularity.
2. Market Growth and Trends
The dessert industry in India is expected to grow steadily, fueled by changing lifestyle patterns and a willingness to spend on premium and indulgent products.
The rise of online food delivery platforms has boosted the accessibility of desserts, making it easier for consumers to order a variety of sweets and desserts from the comfort of their homes.
Cafés and dessert parlours are increasingly becoming popular hangout spots, especially among young people, leading to a proliferation of dessert-focused outlets.
3. Regional Influences
Regional sweets and desserts still play a crucial role in the market. Each region of India has its unique specialty sweets, which are celebrated and often sought after across the country.
Brands are capitalising on this by offering region-specific desserts, preserving traditional recipes while introducing them to a broader audience.
4. Challenges
Health Concerns: High sugar content in traditional and many Western desserts poses a challenge as consumers become more health-conscious.
Competition: The market is highly competitive, with numerous local and international players. Standing out requires constant innovation and quality.
Supply Chain Issues: Ensuring the freshness and quality of ingredients, especially for artisanal and premium desserts, can be challenging due to supply chain constraints.
5. Technological Influence:
FoodTech Startups: Startups are leveraging technology to innovate in the dessert space, from unique preparation methods to novel delivery options.
E-commerce and Social-Media: These platforms have become critical in marketing and selling desserts, with many small dessert businesses thriving through online orders and social media promotions.
6. Regulatory Environment
Food safety regulations and standards are becoming stricter, impacting how dessert manufacturers and sellers operate. Compliance with these regulations is necessary to ensure the safety and quality of products.
7. Consumer Behaviour
There is a noticeable shift towards experiential consumption, where the experience of trying a new or uniquely presented dessert is as important as the taste. This trend is influencing product development and marketing strategies.
(Kale is research scholar, College of Food Technology, VNMKV, Parbhani; More is associate professor, Department of Food Business Management, College of Food Technology, VNMKV, Parbhani; Dr Surve is associate professor and Head Department of Food Business Management, College of Food Technology, VNMKV, Parbhani. They can be reached at ganeshpg107@gmail.com )
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