Smooth, creamy soft ice made simple: Valio Eila® powder solutions

Valio’s Eila® powder solutions provide a scientifically advanced base for soft ice mix manufacturers seeking indulgent, high-quality results. These premium powder solutions bring unique benefits in taste, texture, and production, as well as enabling manufacturers to meet the growing demand for lactose-free options with consistency and ease.

To understand the technical advantages of Valio Eila® powders, we spoke with Terhi Aaltonen, Senior Research Scientist at Valio, about how Valio’s dairy expertise helps achieve the ideal soft ice experience.

A scientific approach to taste and texture

With decades of dairy science expertise, Valio has refined Eila® powder solutions to deliver a rich dairy taste and smooth, creamy texture that holds up in frozen applications.

“Our Eila® whole milk powders are made with carefully sourced Finnish milk, which brings a naturally full-bodied creaminess to soft ice without any risk of rancidity. This means manufacturers can achieve a premium texture without the need for additional fats,” Aaltonen describes.

Valio’s Eila® powders include two distinct options for soft ice mixes:

• Valio Eila® Pro offers a more neutral sweetness, similar to traditional milk powders, enabling soft ice producers to meet specific nutritional targets with balanced sweetness.
• Valio Eila® Sweet provides a naturally sweeter flavour profile, ideal for applications focused on reducing added sugars without sacrificing taste.

Valio Eila® PRO lactose free whole milk powder

Valio Eila Sweet lactose free whole milk powder

“Through lactose hydrolysis, we have broken down lactose into glucose and galactose, creating a natural sweetness from simpler sugars. Unlike traditional milk powders, which can result in a gritty mouthfeel due to lactose crystallisation, Valio Eila® Pro and Valio Eila® Sweet ensure a consistently smooth and creamy texture,” explains Aaltonen.

Production benefits backed by Valio’s legacy of expertise

Valio’s Eila® powders streamline the production process for soft ice mixes, giving manufacturers greater control over both texture and sweetness. The lactose-free base also makes it possible for everyone to enjoy soft ice, supporting digestive wellness and allowing producers to create a treat that is both indulgent and gentle on the stomach.

Backed by decades of expertise in ice cream, Valio has built a strong reputation in premium markets like Italy, where discerning gelato makers rely on the quality of Valio Eila® powders to deliver exceptional texture, flavour, digestive comfort, and a truly indulgent experience.

“Valio’s history in the ice cream business supports the quality and reliability we bring with our Valio Eila® powder solutions. We value our role as a trusted partner for premium soft ice mix, ice cream, and gelato manufacturers across the globe,” adds Aaltonen.

Partner with Valio’s expertise

Valio’s commitment to scientific excellence ensures clients receive not only a premium ingredient but also expert support throughout the product development process. Valio’s team works closely with clients to adjust recipes to their specific needs. Whether you’re looking to create a specific texture or achieve the ideal level of sweetness, we’re here to help.

For soft ice mix producers looking to elevate their product offerings, Valio’s Eila® powders represent a powerful solution grounded in innovation and quality. Contact Valio today to learn more about our Eila® powder solutions and consult with our team of experts.