Ben & Jerry's to release dairy-free ice cream next year

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Great news for lactose intolerant ice cream lovers... Ben & Jerry's will soon offer dairy-free ice cream.

Company co-founder Jerry Greenfield told U.K. newspaper The Metro that the new frozen treat will be made with almond or coconut milk, rather than cows' milk.

The decision comes after more than 27,000 people signed a petition asking Ben & Jerry's to create dairy-free options.

The company's "flavor gurus" are still working on the non-dairy flavors.

"We've been working on this for quite a while, and want to make sure these flavors live up to what Ben & Jerry's is known for: enormous chunks, delicious swirls and a commitment to values-led ingredient sourcing," the company said in a statement posted on its website.

The dairy-free Ben & Jerry's flavors are expected to be available next April.