Plant-based gelato: Scoops of goodness amid the sweltering heat

This article was originally published by Manila Standard.

A scoop of goodness amid the sweltering heat

Summer in the Philippines screams the loudest for ice cream. As the country’s heat index continues to peak, it makes the dessert more of an irresistible necessity than an occasional treat by many Filipinos.

However, here’s the scoop: Many are skipping the goodness of ice cream to cool down either because they’re lactose-intolerant or their lifestyles just call for more nutritious and more ethical alternatives.

This is what Japanese food manufacturer Glico with its Almond Koka brand and homegrown business Gelato Manila aim to address, as both believe that finding equally delicious and healthy ice cream must be a “no-sweat” job for Filipinos.

Kokoa

Glico’s Almond Koka is the best selling almond milk in Japan, boasting a superior taste and top-notch nutrition from its Vitamin E content that is 100 percent of the daily requirement.

Whipping up some plant-based coolness with Almond Koka is Philippines’ premium gelateria, Gelato Manila. Co-founded by world-renowned gelato maker Chef Zarah Manikan, the brand is known for its expertise in creating healthier Filipino gelatos using only natural ingredients sourced from local farmers and neighboring communities.

Together, they came up with a line of plant-based gelato where indulgence meets health during the country’s hottest season:

Almond Mantikilya

As the Philippines is home to arguably some of the world’s best mangoes, the collaboration did not miss the opportunity to include Mangga Koka in their line of gelato.

It’s made with fresh ripe mangoes churned with Almond Koka Original for a vibrant-tasting healthy treat.

On the other hand, Almond Mantikilya is a roasted almond butter gelato that has a bolder and nuttier flavor from the Almond Koka Unsweetened. It truly captivates Filipinos’ fondness for sweet indulgence with a surprising twist: it’s actually low in sugar.

Mangga Koka

Nothing puts anyone in a better mood than a scoop of good chocolate gelato. So completing the trifecta is Kokoa, which has the decadence of deep and rich chocolate from the finest cocoa and Almond Koka Chocolate. This flavor not only soothes the soul but also remains a healthy way to conquer a scorching day.

The Pinoy plant-based gelato will be available as a sampler set of all three flavors for only P450 until June 2024 at www.gelatomanila.com and in selected One World Deli stores.