Australian consumer advocacy group CHOICE, today warned that many ready-to-eat desserts with low-fat claims such as ‘fat free’, ‘reduced fat’ and ’97 per cent fat free’ are not always as healthy as their labels suggest. CHOICE reviewed 31 low-fat desserts found in the fridge and freezer section of Australian supermarkets. According to CHOICE, the review has proven that many so-called ‘low-fat’ products contain high sugar and sodium levels. CHOICE spokesperson, Ingrid Just said, “Low-fat... ...Read more »

Overweight girls lose more weight and can better stay on a healthy diet if they eat sugar-free, low-fat desserts several times weekly, as opposed to their choice of dessert once a week, according to a new study by the Athens University School of Medicine. “Dieters commonly splurge on dessert once a week, usually choosing fattening items,” said lead investigator Antonia Dastamani, MD, PhD, a pediatrician and research fellow at Athens University School of Medicine. “However, we found... ...Read more »

UK-based desserts brand Gü has announced that it will consolidate its Gü Chocolate Puds and Frü Fruity Puds under the umbrella brand Gü Puds.The company has announced a GBP2 million brand campaign to support the UK relaunch – its biggest marketing investment to date. The campaign, which will focus on building awareness the Gü brand outside London, will include new packaging and national TV, press and outdoor advertising. It has the tag line ‘Give in to Gü’ and promotes the... ...Read more »

Once the poor relation of the more glamorous chilled dessert, latest research from Mintel finds frozen desserts are witnessing something of a revival in the UK. After years of stagnant growth, sales of frozen desserts increased a steady 4% in 2008, as Brits returned once again to the freezer cabinet for their sweet treats. What is more, sales of these frozen products are set to increase a further 5% in the next year alone. Meanwhile, things are looking a little less sweet in the chiller cabinet.... ...Read more »

Ice cream remains a favourite cool treat amongst consumers despite increased competition from products like frozen yoghurt. According to new consumer research from Mintel, nine in ten Americans (89%) enjoyed a cool, creamy scoop in the past year. In comparison, only three in five (59%) ate novelties such as ice cream sandwiches or bars, while just over a third ate sherbet or frozen yogurt (37% and 34%, respectively). Ice cream’s familiarity to consumers is a key driver of consistent sales of... ...Read more »

Nestlé Australia Ltd has announced it has sold its yoghurt and dairy dessert business, including its Echuca factory, to Fonterra. Under the agreement, dairy giant Fonterra will also acquire the long-term rights to manufacture, market and sell Nestlé’s yoghurt and dairy dessert brands in Australia under licence, alongside its own existing brands, thereby creating a stronger competitive presence in the chilled dairy sector. John Doumani, Managing Director of Fonterra Australia New Zealand,... ...Read more »