RADAR
The Scoop
I scream, you scream, we all scream for plant-based ice cream.
By Alexis Ramlall
Many plant-based ice creams utilize different base ingredients beyond traditional dairy, such as soy milk, oat milk, cashew milk and even avocado. | PHOTO: PAMELAJOEMCFARLANE/iSTOCK
FROM CROSS-COUNTRY FRANCHISES to mom-and-pop shops, alternative ice creams are showing up in ice cream parlours across Canada. Here’s the scoop on the plant-based trend and why you might want a taste. First, plant-based options taste virtually identical to the dairy versions — it’s hard to tell them apart. And that plant-based ice cream option comes with health benefits — a frozen treat with an almond-milk base can contain more calcium than whole milk, whereas many treats based on coconut milk contain less sodium than those with cow’s milk.
Nutrition facts aside, plant-based ice creams reach a wider consumer base — notably, the 44 percent of Canadians affected by lactose intolerance, according to the non-profit Canadian Digestive Health Foundation. Non-dairy options allow this segment of the population to enjoy a range of ice creams, shakes and sundaes without suffering from the symptoms associated with lactose intolerance.
The cherry on top? This healthy alternative is also good for the planet. The manufacture of plant-based ice cream means reduced methane emissions from cattle, plus less water usage compared to producing regular ice cream. And if renewable energy sources are employed (like solar or wind power), the plant-based treat can help reduce impact on the climate.
Ready to hop on the alternative-ice-cream train? Go ahead and visit a shop near you that serves plant-based ice creams.
Tinkers Ice Cream Shop in Petty Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador, has an extensive menu of dairy-free frozen treats that include Dole Whip, slushies and vegan ice creams. And while flavours are ever-changing, Mint Oreo and Vanilla are always on offer. CAA
Somerset Ice Cream Bar boasts a wide range of traditional as well as dairy-free options, such as vegan soft serve with daily-rotating flavours at its location in Kinkora, Prince Edward Island.
The Little Ice Cream Shop in Black Point, N.S., specializes in vegan soft serve and offers more than just the classic vanilla, including orange, strawberry, chocolate, mocha, mint, cotton candy and even birthday cake.
The family-owned-and-operated Bella’s Traditional Ice Cream in Saint John, N.B., serves up traditional flavours as well as vegan options such as melted chocolate, raspberry and toasted coconut.