Have you ever thought about who invented ice cream? Well! You will be surprised to know that it basically originated in China. Thereafter, ice cream traveled west by Marco Polo to Italy, Catherine de Medici to France, and Thomas Jefferson to America. During the 16th century, the Indian subcontinent was also familiar with ice cream. Kulfi and milk-based varieties were very popular, and Mughals were found to be interested in adding many flavors to them. In 1776, the first ice cream shop opened its doors in New York City. Dolly Madison is said to have served ice cream for the very first time in the White House.
When it comes to sweets, few foods are as beloved by people as ice cream. It was invented as a frozen dessert for the pleasure ending a lavish meal. Now it has grown into a thriving industry worldwide. We can call it a delicious revolution in the dessert landscape. It is both inventive as well as profitable.
The method of production is just as important to the ice cream boom as the ingredients and content of the ice cream. Modern methods and equipment have transformed this sector. They enable them to produce stronger and different flavors to suit the tastes of customers. Moreover, textures are creamier and smoother. The possibilities are endless in terms of savory spices or exotic fruits—the options are unlimited. There are plenty of dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free alternatives available to accommodate a wide variety of dietary requirements and tastes.
Ice cream can change your mood quickly because dopamine is released when you consume sugar. Also, Dr. Richard Terry, LECOM Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, says that sugar behaves in the same way as drugs. Since cravings for ice cream are limitless, demand for ice cream is always on the rise.
In 2020, the ice cream market in India was valued at INR 201.4 billion. It is anticipated that the market would expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14% from 2021 to 2026, culminating in a valuation of over INR 442 billion. However, Food has evolved from a means of livelihood to a kind of entertainment in the era of social media platform browsing. Also, ice cream is one of the most photogenic foods, therefore, boom in ice cream industry quite plausible and understandable.