Who is this guide for?

Consumers keeping an eye on sugar content

You want to check the exact claim, the “of which sugars” figure per 100 g, the ingredients and the portion size before choosing an ice lolly.

Fans of coffee and mini desserts looking to avoid added sugars

You want to enjoy an ice-cold dessert with your coffee, while distinguishing between no added sugars and the total sugars listed on the packaging.

Consumers serving several people

You’re considering mini lollies or an assortment. The number of pieces, the weight per portion and the allergens in each variety all matter when choosing.

What should you check?

Start with the claim that matches your goal for sugar, then compare the nutrition declaration with the portion you plan to serve. The DGCCRF notes that the nutritional values of prepacked products are given per 100 g or 100 ml.

Criteria What to check Who it’s for
Claim and sugars The exact wording on the packaging and the “of which sugars” figure per 100 g. If I want to keep a close eye on the sugar in my dessert, a claim on the front of the pack isn’t enough. Around 42% of consumers would make this their priority.
Added sugars The “no added sugars” claim, the ingredients and the total sugars shown in the nutrition information. I want to avoid added sugars without giving up an ice-cold dessert with my coffee. This would be a priority for around 33% of consumers.
Sharing format The net weight, the number and size of portions, and the allergens in each variety. When serving several guests, I want to know what’s in each piece of the assortment. Around 25% of consumers would put serving format first.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Confusing reduced sugars with a checked sugar content

    “No added sugars” does not mean “sugar-free”. According to the DGCCRF, nutrition claims are governed by Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006. When comparing two ice lollies, check their nutrition declarations too.

    Look for the exact wording, then compare the “of which sugars” figure per 100 g and the portion you plan to serve.

  • Assuming sorbet contains no milk

    The product category name is no substitute for checking the allergen information. The DGCCRF states that allergens in frozen desserts must be indicated in writing.

    Check the ingredients list and allergens for the exact product, even if it’s a sorbet.

  • Comparing tubs by volume alone

    The DGCCRF explains that the amount of air incorporated can affect the weight of ice creams with the same volume. So two tubs that look a similar size won’t necessarily contain the same amount to serve.

    Check the net weight and the number of lollies, then compare these with the portions planned for your coffee and mini desserts.

  • Relying on a product seen in a catalogue

    Magnum says availability varies depending on location and store size; Lidl notes that some stores don’t stock every catalogue item.

    Before planning your dessert, check that the product is available at your chosen store and read the information on its packaging.

Brands and retailers to explore

These ranges give you some ideas for finding a frozen treat to serve with coffee and mini desserts. Seeing lollies or sorbets in a freezer cabinet doesn’t, by itself, tell you how much sugar a specific product contains.

Magnum

Magnum’s French range includes ice cream lollies and mini formats.

  • Mini formats are worth considering if you’re looking for a small portion to serve with coffee.
  • Magnum says availability varies depending on location and store size. Check the nutritional information for the product you choose.

Carrefour

Carrefour’s ice lolly and ice cream bar range includes products from Carrefour Classic’ and Carrefour Sensation.

  • The range is a useful place to browse different lollies for serving with coffee and mini desserts.
  • Check the sugar claim and nutrition declaration for each product before choosing.

E.Leclerc

E.Leclerc’s ice cream ranges include lollies and assortments, including products sold under the SMICY and Eco+ names.

  • Assortments are worth considering if you need to serve several portions.
  • Check the sugars, ingredients and allergens for each variety separately.

Auchan

Auchan has a “sugar-free, no added sugars” section that lets you browse frozen products.

  • The section can be a good starting point for finding a product with the claim you’re looking for.
  • A browsing category is no substitute for checking the label on a specific ice lolly.

Lidl

Lidl features frozen treats in its catalogues from time to time.

  • The catalogue can help you spot formats to consider when an offer coincides with your shopping trip.
  • Availability may vary by store, so you’ll need to check the packaging to confirm the sugar content.

ALDI

ALDI sells lollies, mini lollies and sorbets under the MUCCI brand.

  • Mini lollies are worth considering if you’re serving several small portions.
  • Neither the format nor the sorbet category tells you the sugar content or allergens. Check the label of each product.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does “no added sugars” mean an ice lolly is sugar-free?

No, these claims aren’t interchangeable. To compare prepacked ice lollies, check the “of which sugars” figure per 100 g, as well as the ingredients and portion served. The DGCCRF notes that nutrition claims are governed by Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006.

Is sorbet always free from milk?

No, the word “sorbet” alone doesn’t confirm that a product is milk-free. The DGCCRF states that allergens in frozen desserts must be indicated in writing. Check the information for the exact product before serving it.

Will an ice cream I’ve spotted online be available in my store?

Not necessarily. Magnum says availability depends in part on location and store size, while Lidl notes that some catalogue items aren’t available everywhere. Check the product at your chosen store, then read the label on the item actually available.