Study Suggests Market Opportunity for Premium Lactose-Free Ice Cream

A study led by researchers at Penn State and the University of Wisconsin examined the market for specialized dairy products. The research found that an estimated 36% of people in the United States have some degree of lactose intolerance. Findings suggest that consumers who are lactose-intolerant may be willing to pay a premium for lactose-free or reduced-lactose ice cream products.

The study suggests a potential market niche for companies producing specialized food items. This opportunity exists if the premium consumers are willing to pay outweighs the increased production time and costs associated with manufacturing lactose-free or reduced-lactose products.