Market Overview
The global cheese market was valued at USD 93.27 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 153.03 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.08% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033. Europe leads the market with a share exceeding 40.6% in 2024, driven by rising demand for diverse dairy-based products, ready-to-eat foods, and growth in the foodservice sector. Health-conscious trends and innovations in organic and plant-based cheese products further bolster market growth.
Study Assumption Years
- Base Year: 2024
- Historical Year/Period: 2019-2024
- Forecast Year/Period: 2025-2033
Cheese Market Key Takeaways
- Current Market Size: USD 93.27 Billion in 2024
- CAGR: 5.08% (2025-2033)
- Forecast Period: 2025-2033
- Europe dominates the market with over 40.6% share in 2024.
- Rising demand for ready-to-eat and convenience foods is a significant growth driver.
- Health-conscious consumers seek protein-rich, organic, and plant-based cheeses.
- The U.S. is a major market with a 1.41% share and growing preference for natural and specialty cheeses.
- Innovation in packaging and product formulation enhances convenience and shelf life.
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Market Growth Factors
The cheese market growth is propelled by increasing consumer preference for convenience and ready-to-eat (RTE) food items. With modern lifestyles, quick meal solutions are in higher demand, positioning cheese as a versatile ingredient used in snacks, meals, and processed foods. Cheese's extended shelf life, ease of incorporation into recipes, and compatibility with many cuisines make it a staple for households and foodservice providers alike. The rising popularity of cheese-based fast foods such as pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches further fuels market expansion.
Another significant driver is the growing health consciousness among consumers who prefer protein-rich diets. This trend supports the increased consumption of cheese products, including innovations in organic, artisanal, and plant-based varieties that cater to dietary preferences. The development of natural cheese products with authentic flavors and nutritional benefits appeals to a wide consumer base seeking wholesome food options.
Technological advancements also contribute substantially to market growth. Specialized proteins like micellar casein improve cheese quality by enhancing water retention, protein content, heat stability, and nutritional benefits. Companies are adopting precision fermentation technologies to develop plant-based cheese alternatives that closely mimic traditional dairy cheeses. These innovations attract consumers looking for sustainable and nutritious dairy alternatives, expanding the cheese market's product offerings and consumer appeal.
Market Segmentation
By Source:
- Cow Milk: Dominates the market with around 91.4% share in 2024 due to its versatility, protein, fat, and calcium content. Cow milk cheese varieties like cheddar and mozzarella are widely popular and culturally preferred.
By Type:
- Natural: Leads with approximately 72.9% market share in 2024, favored for its authentic taste, texture, and perceived wholesomeness compared to processed cheese.
By Product:
- Cheddar: Holds the majority share of around 32.4% in 2024 due to widespread popularity, versatility, and affordability across various culinary applications.
By Format:
- Slices: The leading format with 31.8% share, popular for convenience and versatility in sandwiches, burgers, and ready-to-eat meals, supported by innovative packaging and flavor varieties.
By Distribution Channel:
- Supermarkets and Hypermarkets: Lead with about 35.8% market share owing to wide accessibility, variety, and strategic producer partnerships offering competitive prices and promotions.
Regional Insights
Europe is the dominant region in the global cheese market, holding over 40.6% share in 2024. This leadership is attributed to the region’s rich tradition of cheese consumption, extensive variety from artisanal to popular types, and strong foodservice sector. Increasing demand for premium, organic, and specialty cheeses alongside rising plant-based alternatives supports continued growth. Europe’s robust dairy infrastructure and export capabilities reinforce its market dominance.
Recent Developments & News
In July 2024, Credo Foods launched the world's first oat milk-based vegan spray cheese in Cheddar and Smoky flavors. In September 2024, Kovalus entered a strategic partnership with India’s Milky Mist Dairy Food Private Limited to build the country's largest Cheddar cheese production plant. October 2024 saw Pure Dairy partner with Great Lakes Cheese to expand globally, while Britannia Bel Foods inaugurated a cheese manufacturing facility in India to locally produce premium products. Kraft Heinz introduced NotCheese slices in November 2023 as plant-based vegan cheese alternatives nationwide.
Key Players
- Arla Foods amba
- Dairy Farmers of America Inc.
- Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited
- FrieslandCampina
- Lactalis (The Kraft Heinz Company)
- Savencia SA
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