The height of summer is the perfect time for a cold treat. Whether you scream for ice cream or have a passion for plant-based, we've got you covered with chilled Non-GMO Project Verified options that are certain to satisfy. 

Why look for the Butterfly on frozen treats?

GMO corn, soy and cotton seed are key ingredients in the feed given to dairy cows. Looking for the Butterfly on animal-derived products, such as milk, cream, cheese and — you guessed it — ice cream, can be highly impactful to the non-GMO supply chain.

However, plant-based and dairy-free alternatives also pose unique GMO risks. Since 2019, various products made with GMO animal-free dairy proteins have hit the market, including cheese spreads and ice cream. The animal-free dairy proteins are made through a synthetic biology technique in which genetically engineered microorganisms produce whey or casein through fermentation. Manufacturers can also use synthetic biology to develop GMO vanillin or other flavors that can show up in frozen treats. 

Thankfully, the Butterfly makes it easy to pick more natural ice cream and frozen treats! Verified dairy products must source their animal-derived ingredients from non-GMO sources, and the Non-GMO Project Standard prohibits the use of ingredients made through synthetic biology. 

For a seasonal treat, serve one of the following ice creams and non-dairy frozen desserts with fresh summer berries, or on a berry pie or crumble.

Our favorite non-GMO plant-based options

Klimon

Klimon is a company that asked the bold question: Why does dairy get to hoard all that richness and creaminess — shouldn't people who opt for non-dairy options be just as deliciously rewarded? Klimon — which is "no milk" spelled backwards — uses a proprietary blend of pea protein, coconut oil and tapioca to deliver that richness, and even beat out all other non-dairy and traditional dairy options to win a "best ice cream" award in 2023. You can find their products at grocery stores nationwide, including Hyvee in the Midwest and West Coast 7-Eleven stores.

Nada Moo

Nada Moo promises creamy coconut-milk frozen dessert that's "certifiably good for you" — a bold claim they meet with their impressive collection of certifications. Non-GMO Project Verified Nada Moo is made with organic coconut milk. It's also gluten-free, vegan and fair trade certified. Nada Moo looks to sustainably sourced alternative sweeteners to provide sweetness without the blood sugar spike of cane sugar. With seasonal specials and one-of-a-kind flavors, maybe Nada Moo should be enjoyed year-round?

Cado

This pioneering dairy-free brand uses avocados as its base, delivering a creamy texture in a delicious dessert with actual health benefits. Cado products stand out in the frozen treat aisle due to their nutrient-density, low sugar and healthy monounsaturated fats. Cado skips the artificial additives, committing instead to organic and non-GMO ingredients. Whether you're exploring dairy-free options or looking for a healthier ice cream, Cado provides a satisfying and nourishing choice.

The real dairy deal

Alden's Organic

Based in beautiful Eugene, Oregon, Alden's Organic's product line includes both dairy and dairy-free frozen treats. On a personal note, we recently sampled their Vanilla Bean on local, Pacific Northwest strawberries, for a simple and sublime summertime treat — we highly recommend you do the same! Alden's distribution has been growing to retailers across the country but it's not available everywhere just yet — visit the online store finder to see if there's a retailer in your area.

Straus Family Creamery

Straus Family Creamery also meets the gold standard for clean labels, with both USDA organic certification and the Non-GMO Project Butterfly. This is a company that starts with a comprehensive sustainability plan, prioritizing soil health and resource conservation, and ends with some of the best dairy to ever drip down a cone. Straus offers all the classic flavors you expect from a family creamery, as well as some fresh takes like Chai Latte and Snickerdoodle. With the entire line certified kosher and gluten-free, who can say no to a scoop (or two)?

So, what are you waiting for? With dozens of flavors available in Non-GMO Project dairy and plant-based options, the sky's the limit. May your scoops be generous and your waffle cones plentiful!