Buzz
Regular ice cream is loaded with sugar and fat, making it ideal for occasional treats in moderation. However, brands like Halo Top and Arctic Zero are now offering frozen desserts with surprisingly low calorie counts. So, what exactly are these ice creams made of?
To start, air. As Fooducate highlights, a half cup of Halo Top weighs about two-thirds as much as the same serving of Haagen Dazs. That means you’re getting less substance in the same sized container, even though Halo Top costs around double the price.
The sweeteners used also help reduce calories. Halo Top relies on stevia, a zero-calorie plant extract, and erythritol, a low-calorie sugar alcohol. Arctic Zero, on the other hand, uses monk fruit extract, another plant extract that has no calories.
Both options provide a protein content comparable to regular ice cream, even with the reduced calories. Halo Top also includes “prebiotic fiber” in its ingredient list, although the specific type isn't mentioned. However, fiber and sugar alcohols can cause digestive discomfort, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. So, while the low-calorie label is appealing, you might want to be cautious about consuming an entire pint.
Image courtesy of L. A. Foodie.
