Ice-Cream or Frozen Dessert: How to Tell the Difference
As consumers, we often find ourselves enjoying frozen treats without considering whether they are genuinely ice-cream or frozen dessert. While the two may seem similar, understanding the differences between ice-cream and frozen dessert can help you make informed choices about what you’re eating.
What is Ice-Cream or Frozen Dessert?
- Ice-Cream: According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), ice-cream is a dairy product. It is made primarily from natural fats, cream, milk solids, and milk proteins derived from milk. Ice-cream is regulated by FSSAI to ensure it meets the required quality standards.
- Frozen Dessert: On the other hand, frozen dessert is made from non-dairy ingredients, often using edible vegetable oils or fats instead of milk fat. These desserts may still contain milk solids, but the use of vegetable fats distinguishes them from traditional ice-cream.
Composition Matters
The key difference between ice-cream or frozen dessert lies in their composition:
- Ice-Cream: Composed of milk and milk-derived products, making it rich in natural dairy fats.
- Frozen Dessert: May contain a mix of milk fat and edible vegetable oils, such as palm oil, which replaces the dairy fat found in ice-cream.
Regulation and Labelling
Regulatory bodies like FSSAI set stringent standards for both ice-cream and frozen desserts. However, the primary difference remains the fat source—dairy fat in ice-cream and vegetable fat in frozen desserts. Consumers can identify whether a product is ice-cream or frozen dessert by carefully reading the labels. Frozen desserts will often highlight the presence of edible vegetable oils or fats.
Are you eating ice cream or frozen dessert? Dr. JB Prajapati… clears the air.
— FSSAI (@fssaiindia) August 7, 2024
Keep watching #FoodSafetyBytes for more such informational videos. @MoHFW_INDIA @PIB_India #FSSAICampaign pic.twitter.com/PEUfIQYs1a
Health Considerations: Ice-Cream or Frozen Dessert?
When choosing between ice-cream or frozen dessert, consider the nutritional aspects:
- Ice-Cream: Offers the benefits of dairy fats, which are generally considered healthier than hydrogenated or palm oils.
- Frozen Dessert: May contain trans or saturated fats, which, in excessive amounts, can pose health risks.
Making an Informed Choice
Ultimately, whether you opt for ice-cream or frozen dessert depends on your dietary preferences and health considerations. Ice-cream offers the richness of dairy, while frozen desserts cater to those who might be lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy options. Always check the labels to ensure you know what you’re consuming.
Next time you enjoy a frozen treat, ask yourself: Is it really ice-cream, or is it a frozen dessert? Understanding the difference between ice-cream or frozen dessert can help you make a more informed and healthier choice.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is based on information available in the public domain and inputs from FSSAI. It does not intend to impact the goodwill of any ice-cream or frozen dessert brands. For personalized dietary advice, consult a healthcare professional.
