Why Was a Bath Cafe Owner Ordered to Change the Name of Their Product from “Ice Cream” to “Gelato” in March?

In March, a Bath cafe owner was ordered to change the name of his product from “ice cream” to “gelato”. This seemingly minor change sparked a lot of interest and raised questions about the differences between ice cream and gelato, and why such a change would be mandated. This article will delve into the reasons behind this directive and explore the distinctions between these two popular frozen treats.

The Directive

The directive came from the local trading standards office, which is responsible for ensuring that businesses comply with all relevant laws and regulations, including those related to product labeling and descriptions. The office determined that the cafe owner’s product did not meet the specific criteria for being labeled as “ice cream” under UK law, and therefore, it should be renamed as “gelato”.

Ice Cream vs Gelato: What’s the Difference?

While both ice cream and gelato are beloved frozen desserts, there are key differences between them. These differences lie in their ingredients, the process of making them, and their final texture and flavor.

• Ingredients: Both ice cream and gelato are made with milk, sugar, and flavorings. However, ice cream also includes cream and often egg yolks, while gelato is typically made with more milk and less cream, and usually does not include egg yolks.
• Process: Ice cream is churned at a high speed, which incorporates more air and gives it a light and fluffy texture. Gelato, on the other hand, is churned at a slower speed, resulting in a denser and creamier texture.
• Flavor: Because gelato has less fat and air, it tends to deliver flavors more intensely than ice cream.

Why the Name Change?

Under UK law, a product can only be labeled as “ice cream” if it contains at least 5% dairy fat and 2.5% milk protein. The cafe owner’s product did not meet these criteria, hence the directive to change its name to “gelato”. This is because gelato, with its lower fat content, does not have to meet these specific requirements.

Implications for the Cafe Owner

While the name change might seem like a minor issue, it could have significant implications for the cafe owner. The term “ice cream” is more widely recognized and could potentially attract more customers. However, “gelato” has a more artisanal and premium connotation, which could also appeal to a certain market segment. Ultimately, the impact of the name change will depend on how the cafe owner leverages it in his marketing strategy.

In conclusion, the directive for the Bath cafe owner to change his product name from “ice cream” to “gelato” was not arbitrary, but based on specific legal criteria. It serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and complying with local trading standards and regulations.