Mordor Intelligence has published a new report on the Global Cheese Market, comprehensively analyzing trends, growth drivers, and future projections.
The cheese market is projected to register a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.9% during the forecast period, supported by strong demand from the foodservice sector, rising interest in Western cuisine, and the growing popularity of artisanal and specialty cheese products. The industry is seeing expansion across traditional and emerging markets, driven by product innovation, dietary diversification, and consumer preference for high-quality and flavorful cheese options.
As manufacturers respond to shifting dietary habits—ranging from lactose intolerance and dairy allergies to increased preference for fusion dishes and natural ingredients—the cheese market is adapting with new variants, formats, and packaging tailored for both retail and foodservice consumption. From mozzarella-topped pizzas to halloumi-infused Middle Eastern dishes, cheese has cemented itself as a key ingredient in modern culinary culture.
Cheese Market Key Trends
Growing Appetite for Western Cuisine in Foodservice
The globalization of food preferences has directly influenced the demand for cheese in fast-food chains and casual dining outlets. In Saudi Arabia, for example, about 85% of youth prefer fast food over home-cooked meals, with 28.5% consuming fast food more than twice a week. This has significantly increased cheese usage in burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, and pasta across foodservice establishments.
Domino’s Japan illustrates how cheese innovation is being integrated into local menus with its Cheese Volcano pizza, launched in January 2024. Offering hot cheddar-filled centers and multi-flavored variants, it caters to the growing demand for indulgent and unique cheese experiences.
Culinary Tourism and Cheese-Centric Dining
Tourism is another factor boosting cheese consumption in foodservice. Countries like Japan (25.07 million international arrivals in 2023) and Saudi Arabia (16.6 million in 2022) are expanding their cheese-based offerings in hospitality to meet diverse tastes. Events like the Hokkaido Local Cheese Fair in Tokyo and venues such as Shibuya Cheese Stand highlight the growing trend of cheese as a culinary centerpiece.
Restaurants are increasingly showcasing cheese in desserts, platters, and fusion meals, creating new experiences that appeal to both tourists and locals. This trend emphasizes the evolving role of cheese beyond its traditional applications.
Ethnic Diversity Driving Fusion Offerings
In multicultural cities like Seoul, where the number of registered foreigners grew to 239,297 in 2022, the rise in ethnic diversity is influencing cheese’s role in cuisine. In South Korea, cheese has found a place in local dishes like Tteokbokki and Korean BBQ, while in the Middle East, fusions like Zaatar Cheese Manakeesh and Halloumi Derwandiyeh are making waves.
Restaurants are actively experimenting with cheese to create culturally resonant yet globally appealing dishes. This adaptability has made cheese a preferred ingredient across a broad spectrum of regional and international dishes.
Cheese Market Segmentation
The cheese market is segmented by type, distribution channel, and geography, reflecting the variety and global appeal of cheese products.
By Type:
- Mozzarella Cheese: Staple in Italian cuisine and pizza chains.
- Cheddar Cheese: Highly versatile, seeing increased demand for burgers and sandwiches.
- Parmesan Cheese: Used for finishing and flavor enhancement.
- Other Cheeses: Includes regional, artisanal, and specialty varieties like Feta, Halloumi, Ricotta, Provolone, and Shanklish.
By Distribution Channel:
- Supermarkets/Hypermarkets: Broad consumer access; dominant in retail.
- Convenience Stores: Fast-growing due to urban consumer habits.
- Specialty Stores: Preferred for premium and artisanal cheese.
- Other Channels: Includes online retailers and foodservice distributors.
By Geography:
- North America: Led by the United States, with high retail and foodservice penetration.
- Europe: France, Italy, and Germany remain key markets for both traditional and specialty cheeses.
- Asia-Pacific: Rapid growth in Japan, South Korea, and Indonesia, fueled by fusion cuisine and fast food.
- South America: Brazil and Argentina show expanding demand in both traditional and modern applications.
- Middle East and Africa: Saudi Arabia and UAE see rising demand driven by tourism and Western influence.
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Cheese Market Key Players
The global cheese market features both multinational giants and regionally focused companies. These players are investing in R&D, cold chain logistics, and marketing strategies to stay competitive.
- Arla Foods amba: Known for its broad portfolio and strong distribution in Europe and the Middle East.
- Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited: A leading exporter with a significant footprint in the Asia-Pacific region.
- Almarai Company: Dominates in the Middle East with diverse cheese offerings and strong foodservice partnerships.
- Land O’Lakes, Inc.: Focuses on innovation in cheese formats and retail presence in North America.
- GCMMF (Amul): India’s largest dairy cooperative, widely recognized for its affordable and widespread cheese products.
Other key companies like Groupe Lactalis, Sigma Alimentos, Rokko Butter, and PT Garuda food are actively expanding their product portfolios and geographic reach. Mergers, acquisitions, and regional collaborations are common strategies to capture growing markets and improve supply chain efficiency.
Conclusion
The cheese market is evolving quickly, driven by globalization, culinary innovation, and shifting dietary patterns. The increasing adoption of cheese in fusion cuisines, expanding fast-food chains, and rising demand for artisanal products are shaping how cheese is produced, marketed, and consumed.
Retail remains dominant in countries like Mexico and Peru, while the foodservice segment plays a growing role in South Korea, Japan, and the Gulf states. At the same time, diced and shredded cheese formats are becoming the preferred choice for restaurants seeking speed, portion control, and consistency.
With a 6.9% CAGR anticipated through 2030, the market shows no signs of slowing. Future growth will depend on the ability of companies to innovate, adapt to local tastes, and maintain product quality through robust supply chains.
Industry Related Reports:
Cheddar Cheese Market – The report covers Global Natural Cheese Market Companies & Forecast and is segmented by Form (Block, Crumbled, and Spreadable), By Type (Natural and Processed), By Distribution Channel (Supermarket/Hypermarket, Convenience Stores, Specialty Stores, Online Retail Stores, and Other Distribution Channels), and Geography.
Global Goat Cheese Market – The Goat Cheese Market is segmented by Type (Fresh Goat Cheese, Aged Goat Cheese, Flavored Goat Cheese, and Others), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retail Stores, and Other Distribution Channels), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa). The report offers market sizes and forecasts in value (USD million) for the above segments.
Cheese Powder Market – The Report Covers the Global Cheese Powder Market Size and Analysis. The Market is Segmented by Product Type (Cheddar, Parmesan, Mozzarella, and Other Product Types), Application (Bakery and Confectionery; Ready Meals; Sauces, Dressings, and Dips and Condiments; Sweet and Savory Snacks; and Other Applications), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle East and Africa). The Report Offers Market Size and Forecasts in Value (USD) for all the Above Segments.
KSA Goat Meat and Cheese Market – The report covers Saudi Goat Meat and Cheese Market and is segmented by Type (Goat Meat, and Goat Cheese), and by Distribution Channel (into On-Trade and Off-Trade).
Non-Dairy Cheese Market – The non-dairy cheese market is growing at 8.10% CAGR from 2025 to 2030 as consumer preference for plant-based diets, lactose-free alternatives, and sustainable food choices increases. North America leads the market share, while Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region. Key industry players include Otsuka Holdings Co., Ltd., GreenVie Foods, Saputo Inc., Upfield Holdings B.V., and Unibel SA.
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