Brazil Ice Cream Market Size Analysis Report - Market Share, Forecast Trends and Outlook (2025-2034)

Brazil Ice Cream Market Insights

• As per industry reports, Brazil is the 10th largest ice cream producer in the world, with more than 10,000 companies within the ice cream market and a total revenue of around USD 2.6 billion per year.
• The market is driven by factors such as the nation's penchant for sweet treats, the refreshing appeal of ice cream in the country's warm climate, and an ever-expanding middle class with an increasing disposable income, accelerating the growth of Brazil ice cream market.
• Brazilians have a cultural affinity for sweet treats, and desserts play a central role in many celebrations and social gatherings. Ice cream, with its indulgent and delightful nature, aligns well with this cultural appreciation for sweets. 
• In Brazil, vanilla also contributes a significant market share as it is a classic and universally loved flavour that appeals to a broad range of consumers.

Brazil Ice Cream Market Trends

Local flavours and eco-friendly packaging trends are driving innovation and sustainability in Brazil’s ice cream market.

One of the major trends for the Brazilian ice cream market is the local or regional flavours increase along with the sustainability push in relation to eco-friendly packaging. Consumers are looking more into local flavours and want products that represent Brazil's sizable culinary traditions. Brands, thus, are responding with unique regional ingredients, such as açaí, cupuaçu, and Brazilian nuts. For instance, Dona Benta brought such ice-cream flavours into the market in order to meet regional tastes and increase regional bonds. 

At the same time, rising sustainability demand is urging brand companies to be more environmentally-friendly, pushing the growth of the Brazil ice cream market. Kibon and similar companies have already set a good example by employing recyclable materials and biodegradable packaging. This trend reflects the global move towards environmental responsibility and tends to appeal to more and more environmentally concerned consumers, making brands leaders on sustainability while also ensuring that products meet consumer expectations concerning their friendliness towards the environment.

Industry News

January 2022

Ben & Jerry's, Unilever introduced two new plant-based ice cream flavours, starting with the "Chocolate Milk and Cookies" and "Dirt Cake," to hit the shelves in July 2022. Chocolate vegan ice cream features chocolaty milk ganache and fudge chips, including chocolate cookie swirls and chocolate chip cookies.

June 2024

Two stand out novelties from Specialitá in the Brazilian market for ice cream: Chocolat Chocolate com Pasta de Marshmallow, chocolate combined irresistibly with marshmallow inclusions liberal and abundant; and White Chocolate Cream with Blackberry, for a taste and texture different from any other version, with the dehydrated fruit itself.

Historical Market Analysis

Historically, the Brazil ice cream market was expressing a preference for traditional flavours and dairy-based products, with stable growth driven by increasing incomes and urbanisation. In terms of competition, though, established brands battled over new product innovation and increased distribution channels. Consumer awareness about health and diet began to exert its influence on buying patterns, and interest in lower-calorie and dairy-free options was just beginning to arise, thereby affecting the Brazil ice cream demand.

The market is quite promising for major growth in the future. More health and wellness awareness is growing, so consumers demand more vegan and natural ice creams, buoyed by a high level of lactose intolerance and a general move towards clean-label products. Economic growth in regions such as Northeast Brazil will represent new opportunities for premium and artisanal products, while online shopping and increasingly trendy flavours should drive the dynamics of the market in the future.

Opportunities in the Brazil Ice Cream Market

Expanding premium and natural ice creams in Northeast Brazil meets growing consumer demand and preferences.

The premium and artisanal segment would represent the premium opportunity for growth in the Brazil ice cream market as it gains more importance in the Northeast. At this rate of economic growth, the interest of consumers to buy premium ice cream products is gaining importance. In fact, over 10% consumers have already started preferring premium products, so it is a very strong area of differentiation; brands can seize this theme by offering limited, gourmet flavours and handcrafted quality. Another opportunity exists in developing organic and clean-label ice creams, which present with high current consumer interest in natural ingredients. Marketing will be focused in the country's biggest states - São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro - to capitalise on the significant growth of this category, as consumers have a high demand for more natural ice cream in these markets. In both segments, investment would help brands differentiate themselves from their competitors by responding to the evolving nature of consumer demand for luxury and health-oriented products.

Market Dynamics

Vegan ice cream grows due to lactose intolerance and health trends, with luxury and natural varieties driving Brazilian demand.

The vegan ice cream segment is expected to grow significantly due to increasing consumer awareness of health and wellness, lactose intolerance, and the availability of a variety of vegan ice cream products. In Brazil, between 60% and 65% of people were lactose intolerant, which is expected to increase the demand for vegan substitutes for ice cream. The continuous increase in consumption of ice cream in Brazil is further expected to have a positive impact on the revenue and lead to innovative Brazil ice cream market dynamics and trends. 

One of the key trends influencing the Brazil ice cream market development is the growing demand for luxury ice cream in the Northeast region of Brazil.  This region has been growing economically and is ripe for future opportunities in premium ice cream, with more than one in 10 consumers in that area saying that they consume premium ice cream.  Another trend is the increasing popularity of natural ice cream, with more than half of consumers in Brazil expressing interest in natural ice cream. This trend is particularly strong in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, where almost all consumers are interested in natural ice cream.

Growth Drivers

Premium and artisanal flavours drive growth, appealing to consumers seeking unique experiences.

Premium and artisanal flavours represent one of the unique drivers for growth in the ice cream market. There is a demand from these consumers for different premium experiences in terms of quality, hence the ever-growing demand for artisanal ice creams, not only with all the exotics and innovative flavour combinations, honey, lavender, and olive oil. For example, Salt & Straw's offerings cater to those unique flavours - honey lavender and olive oil, gourmet and experiential foodies. The quest for premium, hand-crafted items that stand above commodities is driving this. Premium ice cream brands are tapping into a niche market of adventurous consumers who'll pay a premium price for exceptional and novel ice cream experiences if they emphasise quality and creativity, shaping new trends of the Brazil ice cream market.

Market Restraints

Health concerns over sugar and fat content threaten traditional ice cream sales.

A primary threat to the ice cream market includes increasing awareness of health and diet-related issues. As consumers develop increased awareness regarding the health effects of high sugar and fat levels in conventional ice creams, the level of demand for healthier versions is increasing. This includes low-sugar, low-fat, and low-dairy alternatives, which one can gauge by way of vegan and low-calorie ice creams currently in growing demand. This shift makes the traditional ice cream companies reformulate products or suffer declining sales, thereby turning out to be significant Brazil ice cream market challenges. Secondly, because of the clean label and natural trend, companies have to adhere to new consumer preferences which make production costs increase and product development more complicated.

Brazil Ice Cream Industry Segmentation

“Brazil Ice Cream Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Product Type

• Bars and Pops
• Cups and Tubs
• Others

Market Breakup by Type

• Dairy and Water-based
• Vegan 

Market Breakup by Flavour

• Chocolate
• Vanilla
• Fruit
• Others

Market Breakup by Distribution Channel

• Off-Trade      
  • Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
  • Convenience Stores 
  • Online 
  • Others 
• On-Trade 

Market Breakup by Region

• São Paulo
• Minas Gerais
• Rio de Janeiro
• Bahia 
• Rio Grande do Sul 

By Product Analysis

"Cups and Tubs" dominate due to versatility, value, and variety in Brazil.

The convenience and appealing flavours for on-the-go consumption in the bar and pops segment for ice creams in Brazil are increasingly gaining appeal. Other specialty, and novelty items are also growing as consumers want to have unique or premium options.

As per Brazil ice cream market analysis, cups and tubs will still dominate the market due to several factors, garnering a 4.7% CAGR through 2032. First of all, they offer different options both for a consumer who would want to drink individually and for a family. By doing this, their use is applicable for even more purposes. Then, cups and tubs are given more value to money and better chosen for in-home consumption, which is increasingly more popular. Besides, they come more often in larger packaging and more flavours, which means that consumers can find the product they like in a preferred range, thereby expanding it in Brazil.

Market Analysis By Type

Dairy and water-based ice creams offer variety, while vegan options cater to health.

Conventional appeal accompanied by a host of flavours in dairy and water-based ice creams is in huge demand in the market. Dairy-based ice creams are mainly preferred for their rich texture, while water-based varieties are lighter and offer a refreshing choice. Vegan ice creams are getting popular among consumers who seek alternatives that fit health and ethical aspects. This segment attracts people who are either lactose intolerant or want choices that are sustainable. As public awareness about the environment and health increases, vegan options are fast moving, led by innovations of flavour and texture that are appealing to all consumers - not just vegan ones.

By Flavour Insights

Fruit flavours will gain traction in Brazil due to local taste preferences and health trends.

Fruit flavours will be best in Brazil as they definitely match local tastes for very bright, tropical flavours such as mango or açaí. Fruit is the category leader in health-conscious consumers looking for refreshing natural alternatives. Fruit flavours look a little lighter and better suited to the warm climate of Brazil. Chocolate and vanilla are still leaders, but others can corner individual interests, and the healthier ingredient trend makes demand rise for fruit-flavoured ice cream.

As per Brazil ice cream industry analysis, others are popular just because they are classics and widely accepted in Brazil. Chocolate is dense, decadent, and indulgent-a flavour to which consumers' senses respond. Vanilla is classic and comfortable, offering the perfect taste and appearance. Other flavours fit specific demand. All of these flavours remain very popular today, but fruit flavour's growth indicates that consumers are increasingly seeking flavours that are refreshing, natural, healthy and locally sourced.

By Distribution, Off-Trade is likely to dominate the Brazil ice cream industry

Distribution channels have become crucial drivers of sales in the marketplace, acquiring a 4.6% CAGR during the forecast period. Extensive reach and an offer to a wide variety of products at relatively competitive prices make supermarkets and hypermarkets very important off-trade channels. A close second are convenience stores, which provide easy access and quick purchase opportunities for impulse buys and local needs. Online channels have increasingly gained popularity with the growth of e-commerce, where consumers can order ice cream at home, even ordering and having exclusive flavours that are unavailable anywhere else. The other market niche sustains specialty stores and nonconventional purchasing channels through vending machines, propelling the demand of the Brazil ice cream market. 

The on-trade outlets can look to sales through in-trade consumption in social environments, offering premium and innovative flavours. This again will attract customers who want a treat when dining out, thereby increasing market penetration and total demand. Sales support from each type of channel can be sought because of the different types of consumer preferences and shopping behaviour.

Brazil Ice Cream Market Regional Insights

São Paulo Ice Cream Market Opportunities

The São Paulo ice cream market is gaining traction because of its great size and diversity of population which increasingly demands premium and innovative products, gaining a 4.8% CAGR during the forecast period. Opportunities within this market arise in tapping into the current trends for artisanal and gourmet ice creams, playing on regional flavours and ingredients to feed tastes of the region, and, lastly, the increased demand by healthier consumers who want low-sugar and dairy-free ice creams. The increasing food delivery market also opens a platform for small startups to reach the customers directly in the ice cream industry in Sao Paulo. Investment into sustainable practices and unique marketing strategies would further drive the brand's visibility and penetration of the market in this lively, competitive city.

Minas Gerais Ice Cream Market Dynamics

The Minas Gerais ice cream market is growing, and consumers are hungry for varied and premium ice cream products. Artisan and local-inspired flavours, traditional ingredients with a modern twist, low sugar, and low or no dairy are in very high demand. Market dynamics in the region are significantly impacted by an increased urban population and continually expanding disposable incomes. Hence, the local producers would capitalise on these trends in respect of unique flavours and premium products by capitalising on regional pride and direct-to-consumer channels to strengthen their position in the market.

Rio de Janeiro Ice Cream Market Trends

The major trends in the Rio de Janeiro ice cream market are cosmopolitan lifestyles, where premium and exotic flavours attract consumer attention, and upward trends in artisanal and gourmet ice creams are seen. Based on major health-conscious trends, low-sugar, dairy-free, and organic varieties are also popular. The expanding tourism industry in Rio increases the market demand for unique and attractive ice cream, which should arouse consumer interest in this vibrant and competitive market. Creating popularity in this market could be facilitated by seasonality, specialty products, as well as more innovative packaging and delivery solutions, thereby bolstering the growth to reach a 4.5% CAGR through 2032. 

Bahia Source Ice Cream Market Insights

Bahia's ice cream market needs greater local and artisanal products, as Bahians still favour traditional flavours and more natural ingredients. More and more consumers are looking for exotic, fruit-based ice cream that is inspired by the gourmand culture of the region. A good example is Sorvetes da Bahia, a flagship brand that succeeded in the market in 2005, with rich, creamy ice creams prepared from regional inputs. Concentrating on quality and authenticity has allowed capturing the regional market to ensure both locals and tourists consume its products. It positions them strongly in the tough competition in Bahia's ice cream market in consideration of the strong emphasis on regional flavours and high-quality production, bolstering the ice cream market share in Bahia. 

Rio Grande do Sul Ice Cream Market Drivers

High-quality, innovative, and locally inspired products will be the main focus of the Rio Grande do Sul ice cream market in terms of consumer tastes. Premium flavours, especially artisanal and gourmet ones, but even low-sugar and dairy-free ones, are increasingly popular. This is precisely what Sorvete Rochinha does; it is one of the most important players in the region and offers a large portfolio of traditional and international flavours and makes use of local ingredients in their creations. They have a focus towards high-quality products and individualistic offers as per the changed consumer tastes in Rio Grande do Sul, so they are quite well placed in the competitive market scenario.

Market Overview of Innovative Brazil Ice Cream Startups

Brazil Ice Cream startups focus on differentiating themselves with innovative flavours, artisanal production methods, and health-conscious options. They utilise unique ingredients and local tastes to create niche products. Relying on using digital marketing and social media, new entrants focus on sustainability and high-quality products and build brand awareness as well as appeal to younger consumers regarding distinctiveness and appeal to the local market in the very competitive landscape.

Brazilian start-up Dona Nina has been operating since 2014. Its products include artisanal ice cream made with high-quality natural ingredients. Two unique selling points to the business are locally inspired, sustainable flavours; those consumers look for authenticity and environmental friendliness in their purchases. Emphasis on craftsmanship and uniqueness have really helped Dona Nina cut through the crowded Brazilian market and win over a loyal customer base.

Mimo Gelato was founded in 2016. Its products, gourmet gelato, stand out with rich, creamy textures as well as innovative flavours. Mimo Gelato brings premium ingredients and old production traditions along to appeal to discerning customers seeking the best ice cream in style. Strong performance and individual approach of Mimo Gelato have ensured a strong position on the Brazilian ice cream market.

Competitive Landscape

Brazil ice cream market players emphasise offering a wide range of products. Quality is being improved for providing different products based on an innovation in flavour and affordability. Brazil ice cream is dominating the premium and health-conscious types, whereas the local brands are dominating traditional and artisanal approaches. This integrated approach assists to provide choice ranging from indulgent to budgetary-constraints, both to the consumers of Brazil.

Key Market Players

Key industry leaders in this market are:

Unilever Plc, established in 1929, and headquartered in London, United Kingdom, offers a portfolio of ice cream brands. Its brands in the ice cream world include Magnum, Cornetto, and Ben & Jerry's. Unilever boasts of innovation and a powerful presence almost everywhere in the world; Unilever ice cream brands focus on premium quality and new tastes.

Nestle SA, established in 1867 and based in Vevey, Switzerland, features a wide variety of ice creams, from traditional to healthy ones. Some of the brands are the well-known Häagen-Dazs and the Nestle Drumstick, which allows anyone to satisfy their cravings with nutrition.

Sorvetes Jundiá Indústria E Comércio Ltda., established in 1981 and headquartered in São Paulo, is a  leading local ice cream producer in the Brazilian market. From traditional flavours to creamy texture, Jundiá's products are popular for affordability and quality in the Brazilian market.

Sorveteria Creme Mel S.A., founded in 1976; this is an old-fashioned ice cream parlour located in São Paulo, Brazil. Since they only cover the niche market, Creme Mel focuses on rich, handcrafted flavours using their traditional recipes and high quality ingredients as well as catering mainly to local consumers in Brazil.

Other Brazil Ice Cream companies are Chiquinho Ice Cream, and Industrial e Comercial MARVI LTDA, among others.

Recent Developments

October 2023

Magnum, one of the biggest ice cream brands, has introduced a landmark flavour extension specifically for the South American market: a new ruby chocolate, for its Brazilian customers. Ruby offers a new dimension of taste-what's described as a combination of berry fruitiness and smooth flavour: the ice cream bar's vanilla filling paired with ruby's slight raspberry flavour provides creamy, unique sensory offerings that differ from everything within the market.

February 2024

Carte D'Or continues to innovate, introducing its new mini pots range in three brand-new flavours in addition to expanding its Carte D'Or Deluxe range with two of its most iconic desserts ice creams. The ice cream launches are an important part of the overall deseasonalization strategy that Unilever is moving to implement to drive year-round sales in the category.