Vegans, This Dairy-Free Gelato Is About to Make Your Summer So, So Sweet

Calories: 210
Fat: 10 grams
Carbs: 28 grams
Sugar: 18 grams
Protein: 2 grams

Even if you're not vegan [1], every once in a while, it's nice to have a little less lactose [2] in your life. Our love for dairy-free ice creams like the dairy-free flavors of Halo Top [3] is already well documented [4] (we even have recipes so you can make your own [5]!), so imagine our excitement when we heard that an authentic Italian vegan gelato was coming to the market.

Valsoia [6] offers not one, not two, but three varieties of dairy-free gelato: almond-based, coconut-based, and cashew-based. They're all approved for vegans and some are gluten-free as well. As an added layer of security, Valsoia manufactures its products in its own factory, giving customers a guarantee that their gelato won't be cross-contaminated.

The flavors are pretty classic, including pints of chocolate, salted caramel, mint chocolate chip, and pistachio, but anyone looking to add a traditional Italian flavor can go with tiramisù, cappuccino, or tartufo (chocolate truffle). Tasty-looking ice cream bars, sandwiches, and cones are also available. As of now, you can get your vegan gelato fix from select grocery stores in 13 states, including New York (Wegmans), Illinois (Jewel), northern California (Safeway), and Florida (Earth Fare). Valsoia's store locator [8] can help you find a location to buy near you.

And if you're curious about the difference between gelato and ice cream [9], first know that you can't go wrong with either. Since gelato is churned more slowly than ice cream, though, it contains less air and has a denser consistency and richer taste. Gelato also uses much less cream, giving it less fat than ice cream.

Valsoia isn't exactly a health food; some flavors have up to 30 grams of sugar per serving. But if you're looking for a sweet treat on a vegan diet, pick up a pint and indulge. Read on for more flavors and nutrition info.