Cheese consumption in the U.S. is at an all-time high of nearly 42 pounds per person, according to US Department of Agriculture (USDA) data. The wide variety of flavors and forms of natural cheeses continues to draw consumer attention to the category. Tune in as Midwest Dairy and Innova Market Insights dive into what’s creating excitement for consumers who are shopping for cheese.
Did you know that 68% of consumers in the Midwest Dairy region say they love cheese and that 97% of households purchase cheese? It’s true! Cheese offers consumers nostalgia when they enjoy their childhood favorite mac-and-cheese or a savory option to pair with fruit and nuts on a charcuterie plate. Whatever the reason, consumers are purchasing cheese, with nearly all varieties of natural cheese growing at a healthy rate of 2.9%.
What does the future hold for cheese? Research is showing that cheese sales are forecasted to hold on to virtually all pandemic gains, offering processors and retailers unique opportunities to meet consumer demands. Hard and processed cheese are among the cheese varieties that are accelerating innovation, especially from private labels. There are other trends making an impact on cheese as well, including consumers’ increasing concerns about sustainability and where their food comes from, health claims, affordability, and ‘snackification’ – snack formats that are driven by convenience.