McDonald’s is testing new dairy-free ice cream options in select UK restaurants, with plans for a nationwide launch in 2025.
The Scoop, McDonald’s latest dairy-free ice cream range certified by the Vegetarian Society, is now available in Choco and Strawberry flavors. These desserts, made from rice milk, are currently being trialled in the UK and may become permanent menu items if the trial is successful.
The ice creams are initially being offered in 52 locations in the northwest of England, including cities like Manchester, Oldham, Failsworth, Stockport, Salford, Bury, Ardwick, and Rochdale. Priced at £1.59 each, the Scoop comes in a tub similar to a McFlurry but without the usual toppings. The trial period runs from June 12 to September 3, aiming for a nationwide launch in 2025, pending the reliability of the ice cream machines.
The plant-based ice creams are primarily composed of rice and coconut oil, along with glucose syrup, sugar, and dextrose, complemented by emulsifiers, thickeners, and flavorings.
Although specific serving sizes are not mentioned, the chocolate Scoop contains 94 calories per portion, with 4g of fat (3.3g saturated) and just under 8g of sugar. For comparison, a Mini Maltesers McFlurry contains 133 calories, 5g of fat (3.4g saturated), and 17g of sugar.
Additionally, McDonald’s is testing the McFreezy, a frozen dessert reminiscent of a Calippo ice pop, available in orange or mango-pineapple flavors. These will be offered in 187 locations across the northwest and select spots in Ireland.
The introduction of these dairy-free options comes amid challenges faced by vegan ice cream in the UK market, with sales declining by 2% in 2022 and several companies discontinuing products. McDonald’s previous attempts at dairy-free options in Germany have shown promise, with ongoing success in that market.
In the UK, alongside the new dairy-free ice creams, McDonald’s offers meatless options like the McPlant burger, Vegetable Deluxe burger, Spicy Veggie wrap, and Veggie Dippers. The Scoop and McFreezy represent the company’s latest venture into the non-dairy sector in the UK.