Cheese trend overview

Cheese Trends in 2025: Analysis and Insights for the Food Industry

Cheese remains a major menu item, offered by 82.50% of restaurants, despite a 10.50% decline in social conversations over the past year.

The fastest growing consumer need for cheese is snack-related, reflecting an increased demand for convenient, flavorful options.

Interestingly, veganism is the top dietary trend associated with cheese, signaling the growing popularity of plant-based cheese alternatives.

What cheese is trending?

• Brie – A soft, creamy cheese praised for its versatility and luxurious texture.
• Burrata – This Italian cheese, with its rich, creamy center, is popular in salads and appetizers.
• Halloumi – A semi-hard cheese ideal for grilling or frying, perfect for Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
• Goat Cheese – Tangy and creamy, it’s a favorite in recipes and charcuterie boards.
• Aged Cheddar – A sharp, bold classic known for its versatility.
• Vegan Cheese – Plant-based alternatives are growing as more people go dairy-free.
• Feta – A tangy, crumbly Greek cheese used in dips, salads, and roasted dishes.
• Gouda – A buttery, slightly sweet Dutch cheese often paired with fruits or nuts.
• Blue Cheese – Known for its pungent aroma and sharp flavor, it is often used as a bold topping or dressing.

What is the Most Sold Cheese?

Cheddar cheese is one of the most popular and widely consumed cheeses in the world. Known for its rich, sharp flavor and versatility, it’s a staple in many households and recipes, from sandwiches to casseroles. Its long shelf life and ability to age for varied flavors make it a favorite for cheese lovers everywhere.

What are the flavor trends in cheese?

• Smoky and charred flavors
• Spicy and heat-infused varieties, such as chili or jalapeño cheese
• Sweet and savory combinations, like honey-infused or maple-flavored cheeses
• Herbal and floral notes, including rosemary, thyme, or lavender
• Exotic spices, such as turmeric, curry, or za’atar
• Bold and tangy profiles, featuring blue or aged cheeses
• Fruit-infused flavors, such as cranberry, fig, or apricot
• Umami-rich varieties, enhanced with truffle or miso
• Regional and artisanal blends, highlighting unique local ingredients

Cheese Snacks: A Key Growth Opportunity

With cheese increasingly being consumed as a snack, there’s a strong opportunity for brands to innovate with portable, bite-sized cheese products that meet consumer demand for convenient, vegan-friendly options.

FAQ

What is cheese made from?

Cheese is made from milk that is curdled, drained, and aged, using different bacteria, molds, or enzymes to develop unique flavors and textures.

How many types of cheese are there?

There are hundreds of cheese varieties worldwide, categorized by texture, flavor, and origin, such as soft, hard, aged, fresh, and blue cheeses.

How should cheese be stored?

Cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in paper or plastic, and kept in a sealed container to preserve its freshness and flavor.