The question of whether Great Value ice cream is 'real' in the USA is a common one, and the answer lies in the fine print of federal food regulations. While Walmart's Great Value brand offers a range of frozen treats, the specific labeling—whether 'ice cream' or 'frozen dairy dessert'—depends on its ingredients, not just the brand name. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established a strict Standard of Identity for 'ice cream' that dictates minimum milkfat and milk solids content. Products that don't meet these requirements must be labeled differently, leading to the use of alternative terms like 'frozen dairy dessert'.
What Defines "Real" Ice Cream in the USA?
The legal definition of ice cream in the U.S. is surprisingly specific. According to the FDA, for a product to be labeled simply as 'ice cream,' it must meet several criteria:
- Milkfat: It must contain at least 10% milkfat.
- Total Milk Solids: It must have at least 20% total milk solids.
- Weight: It must weigh no less than 4.5 pounds per gallon.
These regulations ensure a certain standard of quality and consistency. The milkfat must come from milk, with limited exceptions for flavoring ingredients like nuts or chocolate. The inclusion of air, known as overrun, is also limited by the minimum weight requirement, which affects the final product's density and texture.
The Critical Difference: Ice Cream vs. Frozen Dairy Dessert
When a manufacturer, including Wells Enterprises (which produces Great Value products), makes a frozen treat that doesn't meet the FDA's strict criteria, they cannot legally call it 'ice cream'. This is where the term 'frozen dairy dessert' comes into play. These products may contain less milkfat, use non-dairy vegetable oils, or incorporate different levels of stabilizers and emulsifiers to achieve a similar texture and mouthfeel at a lower cost. For example, Great Value's vanilla products contain a mix of milkfat and nonfat milk, corn syrup, and whey, along with gums and other additives to achieve the desired consistency. The ingredients list is key for consumers looking to understand the product's true nature.
Examining Great Value Products
It is essential for shoppers to read the product labels carefully, as Walmart may offer both true ice cream and frozen dairy desserts under the Great Value brand. For instance, some premium-style products might meet the FDA standard, while budget-friendly, bulk options are often labeled as 'frozen dairy dessert.' These distinctions influence the ingredient list and the final texture. A product with lower milkfat and more additives may have a different melting point and mouthfeel than one with higher dairy content.
Great Value vs. Standard Ice Cream: A Comparison
To highlight the differences, let's compare a generic Great Value frozen dairy dessert with a product meeting the standard for 'ice cream.'
| Feature | Great Value Frozen Dairy Dessert (Example) | Standard Ice Cream (FDA Compliant) |
|---|---|---|
| Milkfat Content | Can be significantly lower than 10% | Minimum of 10% milkfat |
| Dairy Solids | Can be lower than 20% | Minimum of 20% milk solids |
| Ingredients | Often includes corn syrup, whey, gums, cellulose, and natural/artificial flavors | Primarily dairy products (cream, milk, etc.), sugar, and flavorings |
| Additives | Uses stabilizers and emulsifiers like guar gum and mono- and diglycerides more extensively | Uses stabilizers and emulsifiers, but often in different proportions or types |
| Density | Can have a higher air content (overrun), resulting in a lighter, less dense product | Must meet minimum weight per gallon, limiting overrun |
Understanding the Role of Additives
The texture and stability of frozen dairy desserts rely heavily on additives. These ingredients perform specific functions to compensate for a lower milkfat content and higher water percentage. Here is a brief look at some common additives:
- Stabilizers: Ingredients like guar gum, cellulose gum, and carrageenan are hydrocolloids that absorb water, preventing large, icy crystals from forming and contributing to a smooth texture.
- Emulsifiers: Agents such as mono- and diglycerides help fat and water mix, creating a consistent, stable product and preventing separation.
- Flavoring: Products may use natural and artificial flavors to achieve the desired taste profile, especially if relying less on the rich flavor of higher-fat dairy.
Who Makes Great Value's Frozen Treats?
For decades, Wells Enterprises, the same Iowa-based company that produces the well-known Blue Bunny brand, has been the manufacturer behind Walmart's Great Value ice cream. This means that some of the same high-quality ingredients and production standards found in more expensive brands can also be found in Great Value products, though the specific formula will differ to meet its target price point and labeling requirements.
Conclusion: The Final Scoop
In summary, the answer to whether Great Value ice cream is real ice cream depends on the specific product. Many Great Value frozen treats are legally classified as 'frozen dairy dessert' because they do not meet the FDA's strict minimum milkfat and milk solids content for 'ice cream'. While this doesn't mean the product is necessarily bad or unsafe, it does mean it differs significantly in its ingredient makeup, relying more on additives for texture and stability. Consumers who prefer a product with a higher dairy content, richer flavor, and denser texture should check the label carefully, looking for products labeled specifically as 'ice cream' rather than 'frozen dairy dessert.'
For more information on the FDA's standards for frozen desserts, you can consult the official FDA regulations 21 CFR 135.110.
