Cheese Market Size, Share & Industry Growth Trends 2032
The global cheese market is expected to grow from USD 199.14 billion in 2025 to USD 283.10 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.15%. In 2024, the market stood at USD 191.94 billion. Europe led the market in 2023, capturing a 49.13% share. The U.S. cheese industry is also on a strong upward trajectory, forecasted to reach USD 62.66 billion by 2032, primarily driven by the widespread use of cheese in popular fast foods such as pizza, sandwiches, and similar menu items.
Rising consumer demand is fueled by cheese’s versatility and the vast range of available varieties. Additionally, the growing popularity of global cuisines—especially Italian and Mexican, which use cheese as a core ingredient—is further accelerating market growth.
According to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), per capita cheese consumption in the U.S. reached 40.2 pounds in 2020, marking a modest increase from the previous year. Cheddar and mozzarella remained the most consumed varieties.
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Market Segmentation The global cheese market is experiencing robust growth, driven by longer shelf life and increasing consumer preference for natural cheese. It is segmented by type, source, product, form, and distribution channel. Natural cheese is gaining popularity, particularly among artisanal producers who enhance it with herbs, nuts, spices, and fruits, while processed cheese remains favored in developing regions like Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa. Animal-based cheese, derived from sources like cow, goat, sheep, or camel milk, continues to dominate, though plant-based alternatives made from cashew, almond, or soy are gaining momentum amid rising vegan trends. Mozzarella stands out as the most consumed cheese globally, thanks to its essential role in popular dishes. In terms of form, block cheese holds the largest market share due to its nutritional benefits and longer aging process, whereas spreadable cheeses are growing in demand for their convenience in everyday meals. Distribution remains strongest through supermarkets and hypermarkets, offering broad selections and appealing in-store experiences.
Regional Insights The cheese market is analyzed across key regions including Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa. Europe leads the global market, driven by high demand for organic and non-GMO cheese products. In North America, rapid lifestyles and a preference for convenient, protein-rich foods are boosting consumption, with millennial consumers particularly influencing trends through their interest in indulgent, snack-sized cheese options.
Market Dynamics The growing demand for plant-based cheese is a key driver of market expansion, fueled by the rising adoption of vegan and plant-forward diets. Cheese alternatives made from soy, nuts, and other non-dairy sources are gaining popularity, and continued innovation and product launches in this segment are expected to support further growth. However, the market faces a potential restraint due to health concerns associated with casein, a protein found in traditional dairy-based cheese. Increasing awareness of possible side effects such as acne, headaches, and inflammation may deter health-conscious consumers and slow the adoption of conventional cheese products in certain demographics.
Competitive Landscape Innovation Leads Market Growth Strategy Leading cheese manufacturers are prioritizing innovation, new product development, and broader distribution to strengthen their foothold in the competitive landscape.
Major Players in the Cheese Market The Kraft Heinz Company (U.S.) Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited (New Zealand) Arla Foods amba (Germany) FrieslandCampina (Netherlands) Saputo Inc. (Canada) Lactalis Ingredients (France) Wensleydale Creamery (U.K.) Dairy Farmers of America, Inc. (U.S.) SAVENCIA SA (France) Norseland Ltd (Tine Group) (U.K.)
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Recent Industry Development September 2021 – Lactalis Canada launched two direct-to-consumer platforms: DairyMarketCulinary.ca and Cheeseworld.ca. These platforms were introduced to expand online availability and consumer access to the company’s range of cheese and dairy products.