Global Cheese Market Expected to Reach USD 153.0 Billion by 2033 - IMARC Group

Global Cheese Market Statistics, Outlook and Regional Analysis 2025-2033

The global cheese market size was valued at USD 93.3 Billion in 2024, and it is expected to reach USD 153.0 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.08% from 2025 to 2033.

The rising demand for unique cheese flavors among consumers is driving innovation in the market. In line with this, manufacturers are focusing on introducing versatile cheese variants that cater to snacking and cooking needs. For instance, Kraft Natural Cheese collaborated with Lactalis Heritage Dairy in April 2024 to launch the Kraft Flavor Fusions product line, offering bold options like garlic & herb cheddar. These new varieties address consumer preferences for flavorful and convenient options that elevate everyday meals and snacks. On the contrary, the increasing popularity of gourmet and artisanal cheese products aligns with the broader trend of consumers seeking premium, high-quality food experiences.

Moreover, the growing focus on traditional and regional cheese varieties is positively impacting the industry. For instance, in November 2024, Atalanta introduced Cracking Good, a pub-themed cheese brand inspired by British culinary traditions, which features mature Irish cheddar, extra mature Scottish cheddar, and vintage English cheddar. The brand highlights the rising demand for authentic, culturally rich cheese offerings made with grass-fed milk and aged to perfection. Furthermore, the development of advanced production facilities in emerging markets is shaping the industry. For instance, in September 2024, RELCO partnered with Milky Mist Dairy to establish India’s largest Cheddar cheese plant in Tamil Nadu. Also, it is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and the facility enhances production capacity, and positions Milky Mist as a key player in the cheese market. Furthermore, this move reflects the increasing demand for cheese in India, driven by changing dietary habits and the growing popularity of Western cuisines. This has created opportunities for manufacturers to expand their footprint.

Global Cheese Market Statistics, By Region

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Peru, and others); and the Middle East and Africa (Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Iran, United Arab Emirates, and others). According to the report, Europe dominates the cheese market due to its rich culinary heritage, and a strong preference for cheese-based products in diverse cuisines.

North America Cheese Market Trends:

North America is witnessing a shift towards premium and specialty cheese varieties, driven by the increasing demand for gourmet dining and diverse flavors. In contrast, artisanal cheese is gaining traction, particularly in the U.S., with brands emphasizing organic and grass-fed options. For example, Vermont Creamery's aged goat cheese reflects the region's focus on quality and sustainability, catering to health-conscious consumers seeking distinctive tastes.

Europe Cheese Market Trends:

Europe is the dominating region in the market due to its extensive dairy farming and a strong preference for cheese-based products in diverse cuisines. Also, the region's emphasis on quality and innovation in cheese production drives growth. Aligning with these trends, in September 2024, Kellanova launched Cheez-It Snap’d in the UK and Ireland, marking its European debut. The product caters to local taste preferences with its crispy texture and use of 100% real cheese, featuring flavors like double cheese, cheese & chilli, and cheese, sour cream & onion. This aligns with Europe’s demand for high-quality cheese snacks, showcasing how innovative launches can tap into the continent’s thriving cheese market while meeting evolving consumer preferences.

Asia-Pacific Cheese Market Trends:

In Asia-Pacific, the market is expanding due to Western culinary influences and urbanization, with Japan leading the adoption of processed cheese in ready-to-eat meals. In line with this, localized flavors, such as spicy cheese spreads in India, reflect a blend of global and regional tastes. Also, growing fast-food chains and innovations, such as pizza toppings from South Korea, are contributing to this upward trend.

Latin America Cheese Market Trends:

In Latin America, the cheese market thrives on traditional varieties and increasing export opportunities. Brazil, for instance, is diversifying its cheese offerings, with Minas cheese becoming a staple in local cuisines and gaining international recognition. In addition to this, rising disposable incomes and urbanization are fostering demand for processed and gourmet cheeses, while innovations in packaging and preservation boost shelf-life for expanding markets.

Middle East and Africa Cheese Market Trends:

In the Middle East and Africa, the cheese industry is marked by a growing preference for locally made soft cheeses, such as Halloumi. The rising influence of Western diets, coupled with affordable processed cheese varieties, is shaping consumption patterns. Besides this, lactose-free options are gaining traction in South Africa to cater to health-conscious and lactose-intolerant populations.

Top Companies Leading in the Cheese Industry

Some of the leading cheese market companies include Arla Foods amba, Dairy Farmers of America Inc., Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited, FrieslandCampina, Lactalis (The Kraft Heinz Company), and Savencia SA, among many others. In March 2024, Lactalis brand ‘Kraft Natural Cheese’ announced the launch of Kraft Signature Shreds. This new product innovation offers consumers a restaurant-style, thick-cut, unique, natural shredded cheese to elevate their homemade meals with satisfying flavor.

Global Cheese Market Segmentation Coverage

• On the basis of the source, the market has been bifurcated into cow milk, buffalo milk, goat milk, and others. The widespread adoption of conventional cheese that is prepared by using animal-based sources, such as buffalo milk, cow milk, goat milk, and others, is augmenting the global market.
• Based on the type, the market is categorized into natural and processed, amongst which natural dominates the market. The increasing consumer awareness towards dairy as a nutritious snack, along with the escalating demand for natural and lactose-free cheese, is fueling the growth of the segment.
• On the basis of the product, the market has been divided into mozzarella, cheddar, feta, parmesan, roquefort, and others. Among these, mozzarella exhibits a clear dominance in the market on account of rising adoption of convenience food products across countries.
• Based on the format, the market is bifurcated into slices, diced/cubes, shredded, blocks, spreads, liquid, and others. Cheese is available in versatile forms like slices, diced, shredded, blocks, spreads, liquid, and others, catering to diverse culinary applications and preferences across global cuisines.
• On the basis of the distribution channel, the market is segmented into supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, specialty stores, online, and others. Cheese is distributed through supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, specialty shops, online platforms, and other retail channels, ensuring wide accessibility and catering to varying consumer shopping preferences.

Browse IMARC Related Reports on Cheese Market:

• Cheese Market in India
   
• North America Cheese Market Report
   
• Asia Pacific Cheese Market Report
   
• Europe Cheese Market Report
   
• GCC Cheese Market Report