How to pick the healthiest frozen dessert, according to a nutrition expert

Choosing the right frozen dessert can be tricky, especially with so many options on supermarket shelves. Nutrition expert Anna Kosenkova highlights that dairy-based ice cream and fruit sorbet stand out as the most balanced choices. But not all frozen treats labelled as 'dairy' meet traditional standards.

Traditional ice cream relies on milk or cream as its main ingredient. High-quality versions list these first, followed by dry milk solids and natural thickeners like egg yolk. These ingredients provide natural fats and protein, keeping added sugar to a minimum.

Some products use vegetable fats instead of dairy but still carry a 'dairy' label. According to Kosenkova, these do not qualify as true ice cream. For those avoiding lactose, fruit sorbet made with pectin or agar-agar offers a suitable alternative. These plant-based gelling agents create texture without dairy, making sorbet a popular choice for people with intolerances.

Kosenkova’s advice simplifies the search for a healthier frozen treat. Dairy-based ice cream with natural ingredients remains a top pick for balanced nutrition. Meanwhile, fruit sorbet provides a lactose-free option without sacrificing texture or flavour.