Cheddar cheese, a staple in households and restaurants worldwide, remains one of the most consumed cheeses globally. Whether it’s melted into a grilled sandwich or sliced on a charcuterie board, cheddar's rich, sharp flavor makes it a favorite among cheese lovers.
As the global dairy market evolves, the cheddar cheese segment is seeing increasing competition among some of the largest food companies in the world. According to Pristine Market Insights, here's how the global market revenue share for cheddar cheese is shaping up in 2024.
🧀 Global Leaders in Cheddar Cheese (2024)
🥇 1. Lactalis Group – 14.3%
French dairy giant Lactalis Group tops the list with 14.3% of the global cheddar market. Their extensive brand portfolio and strong presence across Europe, North America, and other global markets have solidified their leadership in the cheese category.
🥈 2. The Kraft Heinz Company – 12.5%
A household name for cheddar in the U.S. and abroad, Kraft Heinz holds a strong 12.5% market share. Known for its iconic processed and natural cheddar cheeses, the company continues to dominate retail shelves globally.
🥉 3. Fonterra Co-operative – 10.6%
New Zealand-based Fonterra remains a cheddar powerhouse, securing 10.6% of the market. Its focus on high-quality dairy and large-scale export operations has made it a global force in cheese production.
Other Major Players
Arla Foods – 9.2%Headquartered in Denmark, Arla is known for high-quality, farm-fresh dairy products and continues to expand its cheddar offerings worldwide.
Saputo Inc. – 8.1%
Canadian-based Saputo holds a solid presence in North America and Europe, with cheddar forming a key part of its diverse cheese portfolio.
Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) – 7.4%
Representing thousands of U.S. dairy farms, DFA remains a crucial player in American cheddar production.
Bel Group – 6.2%
While better known for snack cheeses like The Laughing Cow, Bel Group has carved out a significant space in the cheddar market.
FrieslandCampina – 5.3%
Dutch dairy co-operative FrieslandCampina maintains a stronghold in European markets with growing global exports.
Savencia SA – 3.6%
Specializing in premium cheeses, Savencia focuses on high-quality cheddar products, gaining traction in both retail and foodservice sectors.
Sargento Foods – 2.7%
An American favorite, Sargento is known for its natural cheese slices and shreds, including a strong cheddar line.
Others – 20.1%
A significant portion of the market belongs to regional producers, artisanal cheesemakers, and private labels. This diversity highlights cheddar's universal appeal and wide availability across various price points and quality levels.
Why Is Cheddar Cheese So Popular?
- Versatility: Cheddar is used in everything from burgers and sandwiches to sauces and snacks.
- Variety: It ranges in flavor from mild to extra sharp and is available in different textures and aging profiles.
- Global Recognition: Despite its English origins, cheddar is now produced and consumed all over the world.
What's Next for the Cheddar Market?
As consumers continue to seek authentic, high-quality dairy products, the cheddar cheese segment is expected to grow steadily. Factors such as rising cheese consumption in Asia, clean-label demands, and innovation in aged and flavored cheddars will shape the future of this beloved cheese.
Whether mass-produced by giants like Lactalis or crafted by smaller regional dairies, cheddar continues to hold a special place in the global palate—and its market dominance in 2024 proves it’s not going anywhere.
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