The Shift from Ice Cream to Frozen Dairy Dessert
For a brand that has been a staple in freezers for over 150 years, Breyers' ingredient evolution is a significant aspect of its story. A key point for consumers is the distinction between products labeled 'ice cream' and those labeled 'frozen dairy dessert.' According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for a product to be legally called 'ice cream,' it must contain a certain percentage of milkfat. Many of Breyers' products, especially the budget-friendly and some newer flavors, do not meet this standard and are therefore labeled 'frozen dairy dessert'.
The Ingredient Breakdown of Frozen Dairy Desserts
It is in this 'frozen dairy dessert' category that consumers will consistently find corn syrup listed as an ingredient. The addition of corn syrup, along with other stabilizers and additives like whey, carob bean gum, and guar gum, serves several purposes. It helps create a smoother, softer texture, prevents crystallization, and reduces production costs compared to using only high-quality milk, cream, and sugar. This is also why many consumers note a change in texture and taste from the Breyers they grew up with.
The Ingredients in Breyers' True Ice Cream
For those seeking a product without corn syrup, it is crucial to look for Breyers' items that are still explicitly labeled 'ice cream.' For example, the ingredients for Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream typically list milk, cream, sugar, and natural flavor, with no corn syrup. The brand's commitment to using simple ingredients in this specific line reflects its original 'Pledge of Purity' from 1866. However, even within the 'ice cream' category, ingredients can vary by flavor and country, so label-reading remains essential. The brand also offers lines like CarbSmart, which use alternative sweeteners like maltitol syrup and sucralose in their 'no sugar added' formulas, often including corn-derived ingredients like maltodextrin. It is important to note that a product can be free of high fructose corn syrup and still contain regular corn syrup.
Understanding Corn Syrup in Nutrition
Corn syrup is a liquid sweetener derived from cornstarch. Unlike high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which is chemically altered to be sweeter, regular corn syrup is primarily composed of glucose. However, both are forms of added sugar that offer empty calories and can contribute to overall sugar intake when consumed in excess. For individuals managing blood sugar levels, or those simply trying to reduce their sugar consumption, the presence of corn syrup is a key consideration. The addition of these caloric sweeteners is a significant nutritional difference between Breyers' ice creams and its frozen dairy desserts.
Reading the Label: Your Guide to Breyers Products
Becoming a savvy consumer requires a moment of attention before you toss that tub into your cart. Here is a quick guide to help you navigate Breyers' product offerings:
- Look for the Product Title: The first and most important step is to read whether the product is labeled 'Ice Cream' or 'Frozen Dairy Dessert' on the front of the packaging. This is the clearest indicator of what to expect in terms of ingredients.
- Scan the Ingredients List: The ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. For products labeled 'Frozen Dairy Dessert,' you will almost always find corn syrup near the top of the list, often before the cream.
- Watch for Additives: In addition to corn syrup, look for stabilizers and thickeners like carob bean gum, guar gum, and tara gum, which are prevalent in 'Frozen Dairy Desserts'.
- Don't Confuse Labeling: A 'No High Fructose Corn Syrup' claim on the packaging does not mean it is corn syrup-free. Always check the full ingredient list.
- Consider Alternatives: If you are determined to avoid corn syrup and other additives, consider looking for alternatives from other brands that commit to simpler ingredient lists, like Tillamook or other organic options.
Comparison Table: Breyers Vanilla Products
| Feature | Breyers Natural Vanilla Ice Cream | Breyers Extra Creamy Vanilla Frozen Dairy Dessert |
|---|---|---|
| Product Label | Ice Cream | Frozen Dairy Dessert |
| Contains Corn Syrup | No (in most U.S. versions) | Yes |
| Primary Sweetener | Sugar | Sugar, Corn Syrup |
| Key Stabilizers | Tara gum | Carob bean gum, tara gum, guar gum |
| Texture | Generally richer, denser | Softer, often described as fluffier |
Conclusion
While the Breyers brand offers a comforting sense of nostalgia for many, its products today are not all created equal from an ingredient perspective. For those concerned about added sweeteners like corn syrup, a simple look at the product's official designation—'ice cream' versus 'frozen dairy dessert'—is the first step. By understanding the different Breyers product lines and becoming a diligent label-reader, you can make more informed decisions about what you and your family consume. This knowledge is not only beneficial for those following a specific nutrition diet but also for anyone seeking to minimize processed ingredients in their food. For additional information on their ingredients, you can always check the Breyers website or resources from third-party ingredient analyzers.
Outbound Link
For a deeper look into a specific product's ingredients, the Breyers website provides a detailed breakdown through its SmartLabel feature, which offers transparency and product information.
