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

1. https://www.mintel.com/insights/food-and-drink/worlds-cheesiest-nations/
2. https://www.cheese.com/
3. https://comtrade.un.org/
4. https://ads.google.com/
5. https://data.worldbank.org/

Jonah Kincaid

Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online. 

cheesescientist.com

The post 10 Cheesiest Countries (Based on Consumption, Import & Interest) appeared first on Cheese Scientist.

SEE ALSO: The 46 most protected French cheeses by region →

How much cheese is sold each year in France?

In 2020, 8,468,797 metric tonnes of cheese were sold in France. As a matter of fact, that number is a significant 8.9% increase on the sales figures for 2019. Unsurprisingly, cheese sales and consumption have increased during the pandemic. Is there anything better than cheese to cheer you up? At The Cheese Scientist, we don’t think so!  

When you consider that the population of France (all ages) is 67.39 million, you find that the average person in France consumes 125 kg of cheese a year! Or 344 g of cheese a day. Sabine and I love cheese, but I have to admit that we both fall a bit short of this tally. 

What are the most popular milks used to make French cheese?

Next, let’s have a look at the different milks that the French use to make cheese. Once again, there are no surprises here as cow’s milk is by far the most popular milk. With 84.2% of the market, cow’s milk cheeses far outrank goat’s, sheep’s and other milks in both production and sales. 

However, you will find that this statistic is significantly different if we restrict the sales to the Loire region. Indeed, almost 70% of the entire country’s production of goat’s cheeses comes from the Loire Valley. And it is by far the most popular cheese in this part of France. 

What are the most popular types of cheese in France?

The most popular cheeses in France fall under the pressed cooked category (34%). Some examples of this type of cheese include Emmental and Comté. Indeed, those two cheeses are among the biggest sellers in the country but will have a closer look at those numbers a little bit later. 

In second place (29%), we find pressed uncooked cheeses such as Raclette and Morbier. Wrapping up the categories we have soft cheeses (e.g., Camembert), blue cheeses (e.g., Roquefort), chèvres (e.g., Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine) and whey cheeses (e.g., Brocciu).  

Where do the French buy their cheese from?

If you’ve never been to France, this stat is really going to surprise you. Yes, close to 50% of cheese sales in the country take place in large format supermarkets called hypermarkets. Over the last few years, cheese delivery services have boomed and now account for 7.4% of all sales. 

Finally, farmer’s markets and specialty cheese shops appear at the rear end of the list with respectively 5.8% and 6% of overall cheese sales. While we are witnessing a resurgence of such cheese shops in north American, Australia and the UK, it seems that their market share is diminishing each year in France. 

Are most French cheeses made with raw milk?

Our fifth stat looks at the percentage of cheeses made with raw milk versus pasteurised milk. And, if you’re familiar with the history of cheesemaking in France and most of Europe, this will not surprise you. A staggering 78.8% of all cheeses sold in France are actually made using raw milk. 

And yet, somehow, most of those cheeses are banned in the United States and Australia! Is this even a public health and safety issue? You can read more about the importance of raw milk cheese in our article on the topic.  

What is the most popular cheese in France?

I don’t know about you but I love a good sales chart! And if you tell me that this particular one doesn’t surprise you, I will be very impressed. The most sold cheese in all of France is Emmental! Yes, that large pressed cooked cheese with the large eyes. Actually, the main reason for this stat is the versatility of this particular mountain cheese. Indeed, Emmental is sold in wedges, blocks, cubes and slices and it does not disappoint in any form. 

Rounding up the top three, we find another pressed cooked cheese (Comté) and one of the most popular cheeses on Instagram, Raclette. What is less surprising is that Mozzarella makes the top 10 and Roquefort is the most popular blue cheese. 

Is cheese expensive in France?

Undoubtedly, cheese is much cheaper in France than it is in north America and Australia. Astonishingly, France’s most popular cheese, Emmental, costs only €7.55/kg. Actually, the only cheese in the top 15 sales that costs less than this is the soft cheese Coulommiers (€5.58/kg). 

On the higher end of the scale, we find the sheep’s milk blue cheese Roquefort (€16.15/kg) and the seasonal Mont d’Or (€14.63/kg). For the sake of comparison, in Australia, Roquefort costs about AU$85/kg (or €57/kg). And in the USA, it costs about USD$31/lb (or €66.95/kg). 

Finally, the most expensive cheese among the top 15 is the Italian Parmigiano Reggiano, clocking in at a “whopping” €18.15/kg. Yes, this is still a long way from the AU$100/kg (€67.50/kg) that we sometimes pay in Australia.  

Which French cheese sales stat surprised you the most?

Thank you for reading our list of 7 mind-blowing French cheese sales stats. Which one surprised you the most? Let me know in the comments.

Jonah Kincaid

Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online. 

cheesescientist.com

The post 7 Mind-Blowing French Cheese Sales Stats (France Agrimer 2020) appeared first on Cheese Scientist.