With more than two-thirds of households purchasing flavored cheese and over 283 million pounds sold in 2016 alone, there is no denying that this category is generating a lot of interest. In fact, nearly 300 new flavored cheese products were added to the market last year, flaunting flavors such as jalapeño, smoked, herb, pimento, taco, berry, alcohol, bacon, citrus and coffee.
Natural cheese sales have been steady for subcategories such as slices and shreds, but others (crumbles, chunks) are struggling. Meanwhile, cheese spreads/balls saw a sales boost in the processed cheese category.
With an influx of innovative snacking options, convenient packaging, specialty cheeses and unique flavors, the cheese category claims the MOST CREATIVE title this year.
As consumers continue to seek out food with clean ingredients, protein on the go, freshness and convenience, cheese is the answer to many of those needs. Over the last year, cheese processors have doubled down on portable snack offerings, from cheese bites to snack packs. Hybrid options (think cheese paired with lunch meats, nuts, fruit and pretzels) are popping up everywhere. Portion control and portability are the keys.