According to a recent poll of one thousand American adults commissioned by PreGel America (manufacturer of dry bases and flavorings for gelato and other desserts), one in two have never even heard of gelato.
Almost 50 percent didn't know the difference between gelato and other frozen desserts.
Two-thirds didn't know that gelato is made from natural ingredients, such as fruit and chocolate, from around the world.
Nearly two-thirds didn't know that gelato is lower in fat than ice cream.
More than 75 percent didn't know that gelato is lower in calories than other frozen desserts.
Some may say gelato is simply Italian ice cream. Although this is a valid comparison, gelato differs from ice cream in several important ways.
First, gelato contains less butterfat than traditional ice cream. Most ice cream has between 18 and 26 percent butterfat, while some gelato has less than 10 percent. As a result of less fat, gelato does not freeze as firmly as ice cream.
Next, gelato has no air added and as a result is a denser product than ice cream. So while the addition of air gives you twice as much as ice cream, gelato has a richer, creamier flavor and texture.
Lastly, gelato is not served as cold as ice cream. In fact, gelato is often served 10 degrees warmer, and it melts more quickly in the mouth.
So, the next time you head out for ice cream, consider giving gelato a try. Your tastebuds and waistline will thank you for it!
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Reader Comments (2)
Thanks for sharing what gelato is and comparing it with ordinay ice cream; gelato sure sounds more healthy than eating ice cream as a great dessert. I'll start looking where I can find gelato.
Posted by: Green Shopper on June 2, 2008
If you want to try making it at home, the basic ingredients are milk, cream, eggs and sugar. Here's are two simple recipes for a gelato base (meaning you can add whatever flavor you wish to it):
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Gelato/Detail.aspx
http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/GELATO-DI-CREMA-15400
Enjoy!
Posted by: Erika Pitera on June 3, 2008
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