Cheese Market Size 2024-2028: Key Insights and Trends

The global cheese market is poised for significant growth, with an expected increase of USD 38.8 billion at a CAGR of 4.36% from 2023 to 2028. This expansion is largely driven by the rising preference for cheese-based snacks across international cuisines, as well as the growing adaptability of cheese in diverse dishes. Additionally, the popularity of online retailing has made it easier for consumers to purchase cheese, contributing further to market momentum. However, challenges such as health concerns (lactose intolerance and high saturated fat content) persist, leading producers and retailers to innovate with alternatives such as lactose-free and reduced-fat cheese options.

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Cheese Market Segmentation

Product Outlook

• Natural Cheese
• Processed Cheese

Distribution Channel Outlook

• Offline
• Online

Region Outlook

• North America
  • The U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • The U.K.
  • Germany
  • France
  • Rest of Europe
• APAC
  • China
  • India
• Middle East & Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • Rest of the Middle East & Africa
• South America
  • Chile
  • Brazil
  • Argentina

By Distribution Channel

Offline distribution channels in this market involve physical retail locations, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, and specialty shops. These provide consumers with a tangible and interactive shopping experience. Online retail channels have also gained traction due to the convenience they offer, enabling consumers to buy cheese effortlessly from the comfort of their homes.

By Product

The natural cheese segment will see significant growth during the forecast period. With natural ingredients and traditional cheesemaking techniques, natural cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella remain popular due to the increasing demand for high-quality, authentic cheeses. This demand is further fueled by consumer awareness around environmentally friendly production methods and sustainable sourcing.

Regional Market Trends

• North America is expected to contribute 40% to the global cheese market growth during the forecast period. The market in this region is expanding due to increased demand for cheese, a preference for convenience foods, and the rise of cheese-based snacks. The U.S. is the largest market in North America, with growing demand for organic, specialty, lactose-free, and plant-based cheese options.

Cheese Market Dynamics

The cheese market continues to thrive, with a wide variety of cheese types finding applications in snacks, sauces, and ready meals. Key drivers include the increasing demand for plant-based and vegan cheese options, artisanal and organic cheeses, and the global rise in cheese consumption. Despite these factors, challenges such as health concerns—high saturated fat content, lactose intolerance, and sodium levels—remain. Cheese producers are responding by offering healthier alternatives.

Key Market Drivers

• Rising adoption of cheese products in various cuisines. Cheese, with its rich flavor, has gained popularity worldwide, becoming a staple in dishes like pizza, sandwiches, and pasta.
• The market benefits from the growth of Western cuisines globally, making cheese a regular part of foodservice and home-cooked meals.

Significant Market Trends

• Online Retailing Growth: The increase in internet accessibility has led to a surge in e-commerce, driving cheese sales. Manufacturers and distributors are leveraging online platforms to improve visibility, broaden their geographical reach, and increase sales.

Major Market Challenges

• Health Concerns: Health issues related to cheese consumption, such as high saturated fat and sodium content, as well as lactose intolerance, pose significant challenges to market growth. The need for healthier and alternative cheese options is becoming more evident.

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Key Market Players

• Agropur Dairy Cooperative
• Arla Foods amba
• Britannia Industries Ltd.
• Brue Valley
• Dairy Farmers of America Inc.
• DANA Dairy Group Ltd.
• Flanders Dairy Products
• Fonterra Cooperative Group Ltd.
• Glanbia plc
• Global Foods International Inc.
• Grande Cheese Co.
• Groupe Lactalis
• Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd.
• Land O Lakes Inc.
• Mammen cheese AS
• Royal FrieslandCampina NV
• Saputo Inc.
• Savencia SA
• Schreiber Foods Inc.
• The Kraft Heinz Co.

Latest Market Developments and News

• January 2025: Major cheese manufacturers, including Nestlé and Danone, expanded their portfolios with plant-based and vegan cheese options to cater to the growing demand for dairy alternatives.

• December 2024: The market saw a rise in demand for artisanal and organic cheeses, with producers introducing high-quality, small-batch products emphasizing sustainable production methods and regional flavors.

• November 2024: Foodservice companies reported increased cheese consumption, particularly gourmet platters and specialty dishes, driving interest from chefs and restaurant owners in offering innovative cheese-centric menu items.

• October 2024: The global cheese export market grew, with countries like France, Italy, and the U.S. seeing a rise in exports of premium cheeses to emerging markets and established regions seeking diverse cheese options.