While cheese is universally loved worldwide, the obsession with this versatile dairy product can vary greatly between countries. Some countries are known for their famous local cheeses, while others import massive quantities from abroad. In this in-depth look, I’ll dive into the top 10 cheesiest countries, ranked not just by cheese consumption, but also by imports, local production and online interest.
Methodology
This ranking combines data analysed by Mintel on cheese imports, production and online interest.
- Import figures show which countries spend the most on bringing in cheese from abroad
- Production numbers highlight the diversity and significance of local cheese industries
- Google searches reflect cultural interest and passion for cheese.
Together, these factors help give a fuller picture of which country is truly the cheesiest on the planet. Mintel assigned a combined score out of 100 for each country they assessed.
You can read more about how Mintel collated and analysed all of this data in this article here.
10. Finland (27.2)
Finland might not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking of cheese, but it’s a quiet powerhouse in terms of cheese consumption. Finnish people enjoy a range of local cheese varieties, with the most famous being leipäjuusto or “bread cheese”. This local specialty is often eaten warm and paired with cloudberry jam.
The country’s cheese industry has expanded in recent years, with Finnish producers gaining recognition for their high-quality dairy products. Finland also imports a significant amount of cheese and cheese consumption per capita is notably high. Additionally, Finland has a growing interest in cheese-related Google searches, showing a rising curiosity about cheese in its culinary culture.
9. Denmark (27.9)
Next on our list is Denmark, a Scandinavian country famous for its rich dairy traditions. Denmark is widely known for its Havarti, a semi-firm, holey cheese that graces delicatessens around the world. While Denmark produces a number of cheeses domestically, it also imports significant amounts of cheese from abroad. Danish consumers spend about $5 per person annually on imported cheese. Having said that, their love for foreign cheese is not a the detriment of their pride in local dairy products.
Danish cheese production is rooted in high-quality milk and innovative farming techniques. With strict standards for animal welfare and sustainable farming, Denmark has become a global leader in high-quality dairy products. Notably, Denmark’s local cheeses are increasingly appreciated outside the country, gaining international recognition for their distinct flavours and quality.
Some local cheeses that you might want to seek out include Danablu, Danbo and Samsø.
Interestingly, Denmark also has one of the highest rates of Google searches for cheese-related terms in Scandinavia. This shows that the Danes aren’t just passionate about eating cheese—they’re interested in learning about it too.
8. Sweden (28.7)
Sweden lands the number eight spot on this countdown, owing to its balanced cheese production and growing appetite for imported varieties. Swedes have a strong preference for both local cheeses and foreign imports, spending about $4 to $5 per person annually on the latter. Sweden’s production of 25 distinct cheeses, such as Västerbottensost, showcases its ability to produce high-quality cheeses with strong regional ties.
One of Sweden’s unique attributes is its celebration of traditional cheese dishes like Ostkaka, a Swedish cheesecake-like dessert made from Cottage Cheese. This dish speaks to the cultural importance of cheese in Sweden, as it is commonly enjoyed during festive occasions. Swedish cheesemakers are also increasingly focusing on sustainable practices. And the country is seeing a rise in artisanal cheese producers who use organic and locally sourced ingredients.
While Sweden’s online interest in cheese is moderate, the country’s cheese culture continues to grow, driven by both local traditions and a curiosity for international cheese varieties.
7. Switzerland (29.1)
Switzerland is globally renowned for its iconic cheeses like Emmentaler and Gruyère, yet the nation’s place in the cheese world extends far beyond these icons. This tiny landlocked nation produces 32 types of cheese which are prized for their rich flavours and high quality. However, what might surprise many is that Switzerland imports a significant amount of cheese—over $100 million worth annually.
Swiss cheese production is deeply tied to the country’s Alpine geography. Cows that graze in the Alps produce milk that results in cheeses with unique flavours, thanks to the diverse flora of the mountain pastures. Local cheese varieties such as Raclette and Appenzeller are enjoyed in fondue, a dish that has become synonymous with Swiss cuisine.
While Switzerland imports a large amount of cheese, it maintains a strong export market as well. Swiss cheeses are revered worldwide, particularly for their craftsmanship and adherence to traditional production methods. The online search interest for cheese in Switzerland reflects the deep-seated cheese culture embedded in the country’s culinary heritage.
6. United Kingdom (30.3)
The United Kingdom might be best known for its Cheddar, but it’s a nation that offers so much more when it comes to cheese. Ranking sixth, the UK produces a diverse array of cheeses, including the renowned blue-veined Stilton and crumbly Cheshire. British consumers are also big fans of imported cheese, spending significant amounts on dairy products from Europe and beyond.
The UK’s cheese industry has grown dramatically in recent years, with a boom in artisanal cheesemaking. British cheese festivals and markets have become increasingly popular, showcasing the nation’s love for both traditional and modern cheeses. Moreover, online interest in cheese is substantial, with frequent searches for cheese recipes and pairing suggestions
5. Austria (30.7)
Next, we have Austria, a country that balances both local production and hefty imports. Despite being a smaller nation, Austria has a rich cheesemaking tradition, producing 41 different varieties. These include local specialties like Bergkäse and Alpenkäse, both made from raw cow’s milk from the Alpine regions.
Austria’s cheese imports also make a strong showing. Austrians spend more than $64 million annually on imported cheese, placing them among the top global cheese importers per capita. Locals often enjoy cheese as part of their daily meals, either in traditional dishes like Käsespätzle or as a snack alongside cold cuts.
In addition to consumption, Austria is making strides in artisanal cheese production, with more farmers and small-scale producers experimenting with innovative ageing techniques and blends. The country is becoming a quiet powerhouse in the world of gourmet cheeses.
4. USA (31.7)
The United States might be best known for its iconic processed cheese products like American Cheese and Kraft Singles, but that’s only scratching the surface of the country’s cheese culture. The U.S. is a massive cheese producer, with over 523 varieties originating in the country. The range of cheese options is staggering, from highly processed products to artisanal cheeses that compete with the best in the world.
Americans are big cheese consumers, with Mozzarella being a national favourite. Despite the widespread consumption of locally made cheeses, the U.S. is also a major importer. American consumers are increasingly exploring foreign cheeses like Brie, Camembert and Halloumi. The U.S. also has one of the highest rates of online searches for cheese-related terms, with around 246,000 monthly searches for “cheese”.
American cheese culture is diverse, and regional specialties have emerged, such as Wisconsin’s Colby and California’s Humboldt Fog. These cheeses have gained recognition both locally and abroad, and the U.S. cheese industry continues to grow as consumers seek more premium options.
3. Belgium (39.1)
Belgium may be small, but its love for cheese is huge. The country is the second-largest importer of cheese per capita, spending $11 per person every month on imports. While Belgium only produces 13 types of cheese domestically, its consumption of imported cheese more than makes up for it. This high rate of cheese consumption is impressive given Belgium’s relatively small population.
Belgium’s love affair with cheese extends to a variety of international styles, with Belgian consumers enjoying everything from French Camembert to Italian Gorgonzola. Locally, Belgian cheeses such as Herve are prized for their unique aroma and flavours.
Cheese is also integral to Belgian culinary traditions, with dishes like Croquettes au Fromage and Tarte au Fromage reflecting the country’s deep-rooted appreciation for dairy products.
2. France (39.3)
It’s no surprise that France ranks highly on this list. France is a country that boasts over 240 varieties of cheese and a longstanding love affair with dairy. The French are famous for their artisanal cheeses, with varieties like Brie, Camembert and Roquefort being staples of French cuisine. Cheese is woven into the fabric of French culture, from the humble baguette and cheese snack to elaborate cheese platters at gourmet dinners.
Despite France’s iconic status in the cheese world, it only ranks second on our list. This is partly due to its shifting consumption habits. In recent years, French consumers have become more environmentally conscious, leading to a slight decline in cheese consumption. However, this hasn’t dampened France’s passion for cheese. The country remains the world’s largest importer of cheese by trade value, spending around $374 million annually.
In terms of online interest, France ranks high, with over 90,000 monthly Google searches for fromage. French consumers are always eager to learn about new cheeses, pairing recommendations and recipes that feature their favourite cheeses.
While France’s influence on global cheese culture is undeniable, it narrowly misses out on the top spot in the rankings.
1. Netherlands (76.8!)
Claiming the number one spot as the cheesiest country in the world is the Netherlands. Dutch cheese culture is renowned for both its local production and massive imports. The Netherlands is the top cheese importer per capita, spending $14 per person on cheese annually.
Dutch cheese production is also impressive, with 38 local varieties including the world-famous Gouda and Edam. The Netherlands is not only a major consumer of cheese but also a significant exporter, sending its iconic cheeses around the globe.
What truly sets the Netherlands apart is its passion for cheese, which is reflected in its online behaviour. The Dutch have the highest rate of Google searches for cheese-related terms per capita, showing that cheese is more than just a food in the Netherlands—it’s a way of life.
Cheese markets and festivals are common throughout the Netherlands, with cities like Alkmaar hosting traditional cheese markets that attract tourists from all over the world. Dutch households regularly incorporate cheese into meals, from simple sandwiches to elaborate cheese boards.
Overall, the country’s balance of local production, high consumption and a thriving cheese culture make the Netherlands the undeniable leader in the ranking of the world’s cheesiest countries.
Conclusion
From Finland’s quiet love for cheese to the Netherlands’ cheesy dominance, each of these 10 nations brings something unique to the table. Whether it’s through significant imports, world-class local production, or sheer enthusiasm for cheese in their daily lives, these countries prove that cheese is more than just food—it’s a cultural phenomenon.
These rankings highlight the global obsession with cheese, but they also show how deeply connected cheese is to each nation’s identity and cuisine.
Sources
- https://www.mintel.com/insights/food-and-drink/worlds-cheesiest-nations/
- https://www.cheese.com/
- https://comtrade.un.org/
- https://ads.google.com/
- https://data.worldbank.org/
Jonah is a a hipster, eco-warrior and slow food afficionado. Coming from a scientific background, Jonah has a particular interest in cheese science. And yes, he loves a good cheese pun!
