Why is gelato so expensive?

Gelato and ice cream are both frozen, creamy, milk-and-sugar-based desserts enjoyed in a cup or cone. Gelato uses less cream and more milk than ice cream. Gelato's slower churning rate largely contributes to its higher price tag. Gelato is physically less fluffed-up than ice cream, meaning there are more actual ingredients and less air in every bite. Gelato is made from high-quality ingredients. These fresh, premium ingredients can also contribute to the gelato's higher price, especially if they are locally sourced or imported. On the whole, expect to pay more for a Sicilian olive oil gelato than you might for mint chocolate chip ice cream. But, on the whole, expect to pay more for a Sicilian olive oil gelato than you might for mint chocolate chip ice cream. Gelato's slower churn yields a denser, richer, silkier texture with no more than 30% aeration, increasing product by weight in each serving.