CHEESE
What You Need To Know
While cream cheese and natural cheese are the main consumption choices, there is an interest in imported varieties and dairy alternatives. Brands can fuel interest by showing the range of lesser-known cheeses.
Consumers are eyeing innovation in cheese formats such as snack sizes and variety packs. Brands can present new opportunities for cheese to help consumers explore new experiences.
The cheese market is looking stable but can expect growth from increased consumption, better finances, and a move towards more snacking. Expanding eating occasions and introducing new uses can help brands further grow consumption.
By Jennifer Rodriguez, T. Hasegawa
While cream cheese and natural cheese are the main consumption choices, there is an interest in imported varieties and dairy alternatives. Brands can fuel interest by showing the range of lesser-known cheeses.
Consumers are eyeing innovation in cheese formats such as snack sizes and variety packs. Brands can present new opportunities for cheese to help consumers explore new experiences.
The cheese market is looking stable but can expect growth from increased consumption, better finances, and a move towards more snacking. Expanding eating occasions and introducing new uses can help brands further grow consumption.
By Jennifer Rodriguez, T. Hasegawa
CREAM CHEESE AND DOMESTIC NATURAL DAIRY
TOP CONSUMPTION
Cream cheese and natural dairy cheeses rank high for their versatility and familiarity . Dairy alternatives and imported cheeses have increased, showing consumers’ interest . Educating people about unpopular cheeses can benefit both consumers and brands .
US: Types of Cheese Eaten in the Past 3 Months, % of Consumers, 2024
Base: 1,244 internet users aged 18+ who have eaten natural cheeses in the past three months Source: Kantar Profiles/Mintel, August 2024
FLAVOR DOMINATES PURCHASE DECISIONS
The main factor in cheese purchases is flavor, followed by format and ingredients. Consumers value the initial sensory experience. While a few consider factors such as health and shelf life, flavor draws attention and should, therefore, be prioritized. Brands can still engage consumers through the differentiation of additional factors.
FLAVOR DOMINATES PURCHASE DECISIONS
The main factor in cheese purchases is flavor, followed by format and ingredients. Consumers value the initial sensory experience. While a few consider factors such as health and shelf life, flavor draws attention and should, therefore, be prioritized. Brands can still engage consumers through the differentiation of additional factors.
GOING SMALL WITH CHEESE FORMATS CAN MAKE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT
Drawn to variety packs and sizes for on-the-go, consumers are fine with current options but still open to new experiences. Consumers can explore new flavor varieties and occasions by changing up cheese formats. Brands can also introduce audiences through flavor innovation, health, and alternative cheeses.
US: Interest in Cheese Concepts, 2024
Base: 1,244 internet users aged 18+ who have eaten natural cheeses in the past three months Source: Kantar Profiles/Mintel, August 2024
EMERGING FLAVORS – FLAVORSCAPE AI
(Ranked 1-10)
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