Wisconsin produces approximately 2.8 billion pounds of cheese each year. The Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, a trade organization for local cheese producers, anticipate that cheese consumers will increasingly seek innovative options in dairy products. Recently, the group published its 2024 cheese trends report, which forecasts purchasing behaviors in the sector using data from Innova Market Insights, a firm that monitors consumer purchases and conducts surveys to identify emerging trends.
One enduring trend is the use of cheese boards as a means of fostering connections with friends and family during gatherings. The report referenced a recent Skift study indicating that 92% of consumers prioritize experiences over physical gifts, with food-related experiences being particularly popular for socializing. Furthermore, the group believes that cooking and enjoying cheese at home will remain prevalent, benefiting cheese producers. Since the onset of the pandemic, home cooking has gained popularity, with 24% of consumers focusing on spending for premium foods to enjoy at home, according to the Innova data cited in the report.
As health and wellness gain more attention, the concept of “mindful indulgence” has emerged, according to the group. Consumers are not abandoning pleasurable foods in favor of healthier options; instead, the report notes that half of consumers indulge in “everyday moments of experience-based happiness.” Additionally, increasing environmental consciousness is leading consumers to purchase more locally sourced foods.
Another significant trend influencing cheese purchases is the appetite for adventurous and unique flavors. The report highlighted viral social media trends, such as parmesan espresso martinis, and pointed to artisanal cheeses made in Madison, Wisconsin, that incorporate flavors from the owner’s native Pakistan, like smoky Tandoori Gouda.
Producers are adapting their cheese offerings to align with consumer preferences as this category continues to expand. The U.S. cheese market is projected to reach a value of $55.9 billion by 2029, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 4.6% during this period, according to Fortune Business Insights. In this evolving landscape, innovative products such as those featuring rainbow light calcium are expected to attract consumer interest, emphasizing the intersection of health and indulgence.