US Cheese Market Evolves With Shifting Consumer Perspectives

A growing preference for natural, authentic cheeses and continued demand for convenience are reshaping the cheese industry, according to a new report from market research firm Packaged Facts.

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ROCKVILLE Md., June 20, 2018 (PRNewswire) — A growing preference for natural, authentic cheeses and continued demand for convenience are reshaping the cheese industry, as reported in Cheese: U.S. Market Trends and Opportunities from market research firm Packaged Facts.

In recent years, marketer positioning of cheese as a natural and protein-packed alternative to processed snacks in the shelf-stable aisles have made cheese a growing contender for the snacking dollar. Brands have been capitalizing on this opportunity by packaging their cheese in more convenient forms for on-the-go snacking for adults and children. 

The evolution of cheese into a packaged snack food option has led to the introduction of different types of cheeses, sometimes with newfangled flavor profiles. Natural cheeses positioned as wholesome and sustainable (organic, local, grass-fed) yet still indulgent and flavorful have resonated with today's consumers. While the cheese market remains dominated by large producers, demand for novel and artisanal cheeses has allowed smaller label cheeses to claim their place at the table.  In addition, store brands remain a market force, accounting for over 40% of dollar sales, according to this Packaged Facts report.

"Product assortment balance is important," says David Sprinkle, research director for Packaged Facts. "While artisanal and more specialized cheeses are becoming more popular, that doesn't mean that people are dropping standards such as cheddar and mozzarella, which continue to account for the bulk of market growth."

About the Report

Cheese: US. Market Trends and Opportunities forecasts market growth for processed and natural cheeses being sold on their own or packaged into other food items such as pizzas and snack packs. The analysis tracks the growth of the most popular types of natural cheeses for American consumers, assessing the impact snacking and health trends have on the varieties of cheese being produced and the forms in which they are being sold. The report also analyzes the eating habits of Millennial consumers and how the cheese market is benefitting from the popularity of the foodie lifestyle.

About Packaged Facts

Packaged Facts, a division of MarketResearch.com, publishes market intelligence on a wide range of consumer market topics, including consumer demographics and shopper insights, consumer financial products and services, consumer goods and retailing, and pet products and services. Packaged Facts also offers a full range of custom research services. Reports can be purchased at our company website and are also available through MarketResearch.com.

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