Cheese Market Outlook
According to the report by Expert Market Research (EMR), the global cheese market reached a value of over USD 102.09 billion in 2024. Aided by the growing global appetite for dairy-based foods, rising demand for premium and artisanal cheese products, and expanding culinary applications, the cheese market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.80% between 2025 and 2034. By 2034, the global market is anticipated to attain a value of approximately USD 216.36 billion.
Cheese, a versatile dairy product produced through the coagulation of milk protein casein, is available in a variety of textures, flavours, and forms. From mass-produced cheddar and mozzarella to regional specialities such as camembert, gouda, and parmigiano-reggiano, cheese holds an essential place in global cuisines and diets. The increasing consumer focus on taste, nutrition, and indulgence has propelled cheese consumption across both developed and emerging economies.
Cheese Market Size
The global cheese market commands a large share within the broader dairy industry, with consumption growing steadily across household, foodservice, and industrial sectors. In 2024, North America and Europe represented the largest regional markets, accounting for a significant portion of global sales due to their long-standing dairy traditions, mature retail infrastructure, and high per capita consumption of cheese.
Meanwhile, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa are witnessing rapid growth in cheese demand, supported by rising incomes, urbanisation, and the globalisation of food habits. The market size is also being bolstered by the inclusion of cheese in new product formats such as snacks, ready meals, and fast-food items, which appeal to busy and younger consumers seeking convenience without compromising on taste.
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Cheese Market Share
The cheese market is moderately consolidated, with key players including Groupe Lactalis, Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited, FrieslandCampina, Arla Foods, Saputo Inc., and Bel Group holding substantial shares. These companies leverage strong supply chains, diverse product portfolios, and advanced processing technologies to cater to global demand.
In addition to multinational producers, the market is characterised by a vibrant base of regional and artisanal cheese manufacturers. Artisanal cheeses are gaining increasing shelf space in premium supermarkets and gourmet food stores due to their distinctive flavour profiles and traditional craftsmanship. The rise of plant-based cheese brands, such as Miyoko’s and Violife, is also reshaping market dynamics and contributing to competitive diversity.
Cheese Market Trends
The global cheese industry is undergoing transformation, shaped by changing consumer lifestyles, health concerns, and culinary preferences. Some notable market trends include:
Rising Demand for Natural and Organic Cheese: Consumers are increasingly seeking clean-label products made without synthetic additives, preservatives, or artificial flavouring. Organic and non-GMO cheese offerings are expanding rapidly in response to this preference.
Artisanal and Specialty Cheese Gaining Ground: The demand for gourmet cheeses produced using traditional methods is increasing, particularly among connoisseurs and food enthusiasts. Flavour innovations and heritage cheeses from various geographies are driving this segment.
Surge in Plant-Based Cheese Alternatives: Veganism and lactose intolerance are contributing to the growing demand for dairy-free cheese made from nuts, soy, oats, and coconut. While still a niche, this segment is witnessing double-digit growth rates in many countries.
Health-Focused Product Development: Cheese fortified with probiotics, reduced fat, high protein, and low sodium is being launched to cater to health-conscious consumers. Functional cheeses targeting digestive health and immunity are expected to grow.
Evolving Consumption Patterns: Cheese is no longer limited to traditional culinary uses. Its presence in snacking products, on-the-go items, and meal kits is expanding, driven by convenience-focused consumers and the proliferation of quick-service restaurants (QSRs).
Drivers of Growth
Several critical factors are supporting the rapid growth of the global cheese market:
Rising Global Dairy Consumption: Cheese remains a core component of the global dairy industry, benefiting from increasing milk production, improved cold-chain logistics, and government support for dairy farming.
Culinary Globalisation: The cross-border popularity of dishes such as pizza, pasta, burgers, and sandwiches—many of which feature cheese as a key ingredient—is driving global demand, particularly in emerging markets.
Urbanisation and Lifestyle Changes: The growth of urban populations and dual-income households is leading to a preference for convenient and ready-to-eat food options. Cheese-based meals and snacks meet the needs of time-constrained consumers.
Tourism and Foodservice Expansion: As tourism recovers post-pandemic, the growth of the foodservice sector, including hotels, cafés, and fast-casual dining, is increasing demand for a wide range of cheese varieties.
Growing Awareness of Nutritional Benefits: Cheese is a rich source of calcium, protein, and essential vitamins. Increasing consumer education on the health benefits of moderate cheese consumption is boosting its appeal.
Technology and Advancement
Technological innovations are helping cheese manufacturers enhance product quality, shelf life, and production efficiency. Advancements in microbial fermentation, enzyme application, and ripening techniques are enabling producers to create consistent and scalable cheese varieties.
High-pressure processing (HPP), vacuum packaging, and smart refrigeration systems are being adopted to improve product safety and extend freshness, especially for export. In the plant-based segment, breakthroughs in fermentation and fat emulsion technology are improving the taste, texture, and meltability of non-dairy cheeses.
Additionally, digital tools are streamlining supply chain operations, inventory management, and traceability, helping producers and retailers optimise their cheese offerings and reduce waste.
Cheese Market Segmentation
The market can be divided based on source, type, product, distribution channel, format and region.
Market Breakup by Source
- Cow Milk
- Buffalo Milk
- Goat Milk
- Others
Market Breakup by Type
- Natural
- Processed
Market Breakup by Product
- Mozzarella
- Cheddar
- Feta
- Parmesan
- Roquefort
- Others
Market Breakup by Distribution Channel
- Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- Convenience Stores
- Specialty Stores
- Online
- Others
Market Breakup by Format
- Slices
- Diced/Cubes
- Shredded
- Blocks
- Spreads
- Liquid
- Others
Market Breakup by Region
- North America
- Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Latin America
- Middle East and Africa
Competitive Landscape
Some of the major players explored in the report by Expert Market Research are as follows:
- Nestle SA
- Danone S.A.
- Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.
- Lactalis International
- Fonterra Co-operative Group
- Royal FrieslandCampina N.V.
- Arla Foods amba
- Others
Challenges and Opportunities
The global cheese market faces several challenges that must be addressed to sustain long-term growth:
Volatility in Milk Prices: As milk is the primary raw material for cheese, fluctuations in dairy prices impact production costs and profitability.
Health Concerns Over Saturated Fat and Salt: Some consumers perceive cheese as unhealthy due to its fat and sodium content. This has prompted reformulation efforts but remains a barrier for certain demographics.
Regulatory Complexity: Differences in labelling, import duties, and food safety standards across countries complicate international trade for cheese manufacturers.
However, the market also presents promising opportunities:
Emerging Market Penetration: Rising income levels, improved retail infrastructure, and increasing Western food influence create significant growth opportunities in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Sustainable Production: Eco-conscious consumers are supporting brands with sustainable sourcing, animal welfare practices, and eco-friendly packaging.
Innovation in Functional Cheese: There is untapped potential in launching cheese products with added health benefits, such as those enriched with vitamins, fibre, or probiotics.
Cheese Market Forecast
The global cheese market is set to experience robust growth over the forecast period of 2025 to 2034. With a projected CAGR of 7.80%, the market is expected to grow from USD 102.09 billion in 2024 to USD 216.36 billion by 2034. This growth will be driven by innovation in product development, rising global dairy consumption, expanding foodservice operations, and increased demand for natural and specialty cheeses.
While traditional cheese varieties will continue to dominate sales, growth will also stem from emerging segments such as plant-based, organic, and functional cheese products. Investment in efficient logistics, quality assurance, and global marketing will be crucial for stakeholders seeking to expand their footprint in this dynamic industry.
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