Sales of ice cream are expected to top four billion dollars this year in North America. That's a lot of scoops. But what if you want to cut back on calories? Does light mean less flavour?
On a hot day most of us look forward to a frozen treat and everyone has a flavour combination they enjoy.
Mondo Gelato in Vancouver is made fresh daily without preservatives. Gelato isn't just Italian for ice cream, it's made with whole milk so has less fat than ice cream
"It varies depending what one you have," explained Mondo Gelato's Jody Yau. "Nine per cent fat content in one serving so it's pretty good."
With 200 flavours, you could have a different two scoop combination for an entire lifetime-- and still not get them all -- unless you lived to be over 100.
The latest flavours?
"A Sicilian espresso chocolate one, and our cheesecakes that just came out," said Yau. "A lot of people have been asking about cheesecakes."
If you prefer ice cream but still want to trim the fat, are light versions as good as the full fat originals?
Consumer Reports tested several including Haagen Dazs, Ben and Jerry's & Breyers.
"They weren't exactly the same as the regular version, but the testers said all three were quite tasty and flavorful," said Consumer Reports' Erin Gudeux.
If you're trying to count calories Consumer Reports says your best light bet is Breyers.
"The Breyers smooth and dreamy butter pecan is sweeter and tastes more buttery than the regular version," said Gudeux.
Sweeter, yet it costs less than half as much as the Haagen Dazs and Ben & Jerry's.
Whether it is ice cream or gelato --less fat doesn't always mean fewer calories. Some brands count on sugar to boost the taste. Check the nutrition information to be sure --but a good rule of thumb that is even if it's "light" it is still just a sometimes treat.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Chris Olsen
