The Core Ingredients in Noto's Dairy Ice Cream
Noto's dairy-based ice creams utilize a foundation of real milk and milk solids to create their creamy and rich texture. Unlike traditional brands that rely on high-fat cream and large amounts of refined sugar, Noto opts for a balanced approach. By using a higher concentration of milk and milk solids, they can deliver a dairy experience while managing calorie and fat content.
The Sweeteners: Erythritol, Stevia, and Sugar
One of the most notable features of Noto ice cream is its low sugar content. This is achieved by using a combination of natural sweeteners.
- Erythritol: This is a sugar alcohol that is almost calorie-free and does not spike blood sugar levels, making it suitable for keto diets and diabetics. It contributes to the sweet taste without the associated calories.
- Stevia: A plant-based, zero-calorie sweetener that enhances the sweetness profile.
- Minimal Sugar: A small amount of sugar may be included to round out the flavor, though some variants are marketed as 'zero added sugar'.
The Fibers: Fructo Oligosaccharides (Prebiotic Fibers)
To enhance the health benefits, Noto incorporates prebiotic fibers like Fructo Oligosaccharides (FOS). These non-digestible fibers serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria. The inclusion of FOS serves a dual purpose: improving digestive health and adding bulk and a smoother mouthfeel to the ice cream without adding significant calories.
Flavor-Specific Ingredients in Dairy Variants
Flavor profiles are built upon the core ingredients with additional components. For example, the Dark Chocolate flavor includes cocoa powder, while the Salted Caramel variant features a salted caramel component. Other dairy flavors like French Vanilla rely on natural vanilla extract for their taste.
What are the Ingredients in Noto's Vegan Options?
For those seeking a dairy-free dessert, Noto offers a range of vegan frozen desserts. These products swap the milk and milk solids for plant-based alternatives.
- Plant-Based Base: Ingredients like almond milk, coconut milk, and water form the base of vegan flavors.
- Vegetable Oils: To achieve a creamy consistency, edible vegetable oils such as coconut oil and sunflower oil are used.
- Plant-Based Protein: Vegetable protein is included to boost the protein content of the vegan options.
- Thickeners and Stabilizers: Similar to the dairy versions, stabilizers and emulsifiers are used to prevent ice crystal formation and create a smooth texture. Hazelnut butter is also used in some vegan flavors.
Understanding the Role of Emulsifiers and Stabilizers
Both the dairy and vegan versions of Noto ice cream use food-grade emulsifiers and stabilizers, often denoted by INS numbers like INS 471, INS 477, INS 410, INS 412, and INS 407.
- Emulsifiers (e.g., INS 471, INS 477): These help to blend ingredients that would not normally mix, such as oil and water, ensuring a uniform and creamy texture.
- Stabilizers (e.g., INS 410, INS 412, INS 407): These prevent the formation of large ice crystals during freezing, which is crucial for maintaining a smooth, scoopable consistency over time.
Comparison: Noto vs. Traditional Ice Cream
| Feature | Noto Ice Cream (Dairy) | Noto Ice Cream (Vegan) | Traditional Ice Cream |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | Erythritol, Stevia, minimal sugar | Erythritol, Stevia, Maltitol, minimal sugar | High levels of refined sugar (sucrose, glucose) |
| Dairy Base | Milk and milk solids | None | Milk and heavy cream |
| Plant-Based Base | None | Almond milk, coconut milk, water | None |
| Fibers | Fructo Oligosaccharides (Prebiotic) | Fructo Oligosaccharides (Prebiotic), Polydextrose | Minimal or none |
| Protein | Elevated, from milk protein concentrate | Plant-based protein | Lower, from milk and cream |
| Calories | Significantly lower per serving (e.g., 75-95 kcal) | Lower per serving (e.g., 110-120 kcal) | Higher per serving (e.g., 200+ kcal) |
What Makes Noto Ice Cream a Healthier Alternative?
Noto's formulation is designed for mindful indulgence. By reducing sugar content and utilizing natural, low-calorie sweeteners, it offers the satisfaction of ice cream with a lower caloric impact. The inclusion of prebiotic fibers promotes gut health, a benefit not typically found in conventional ice creams. Furthermore, the higher protein content, achieved through ingredients like milk protein concentrate, helps with satiety.
Is Noto Ice Cream Right for You?
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, or simply aiming to reduce their sugar intake, Noto presents a compelling dessert option. However, it's essential to check the specific product label, as ingredients can vary between flavors and dairy/vegan options. While often marketed with 'zero added sugar,' this can differ between variants. The vegan options are excellent for individuals avoiding dairy or seeking plant-based alternatives. For more information, visit the official Noto website at https://eatnoto.com/.
Conclusion
The ingredients in Noto ice cream are purposefully selected to create a healthier, low-calorie alternative to traditional desserts. By replacing a majority of the sugar with natural substitutes like erythritol and stevia, and by incorporating beneficial prebiotic fibers, Noto offers a guilt-free indulgence. The brand's commitment to creating options for different dietary needs, including dairy and vegan flavors, makes it an appealing choice for a wide range of health-conscious consumers.
