Global Emmental Cheese Market Size, Share, And Business Benefits By Product Type (Semi hard Cheese, Hard Cheese), By Age Group (Adults, Children, Seniors), By Packaging Type (Composite Materials, Glass, Metal, Paper, Plastic), By Production Method (Industrial, Traditional), By End-use (Household, Industrial), By Application (Food and beverage, Bakery, Confectionery), By Distribution channel (Store Based Retail, Specialty Stores, Online Retail, Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Others), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The Global Emmental Cheese Market is expected to be worth around USD 3.8 Billion by 2033, up from USD 2.5 Billion in 2023, and grow at a CAGR of 4.4% from 2024 to 2033. North America holds 38.2% of the Emmental cheese market, USD 0.9 Bn.

The global Emmental cheese market is poised for steady growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for authentic, high-quality dairy products. Emmental cheese, known for its distinct texture and nutty flavor, is a staple in both traditional and modern culinary applications.

Its popularity is growing in both developed and emerging markets due to a rising preference for natural, artisanal cheeses. As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for natural and minimally processed cheeses like Emmental is expected to continue.

Driving factors include a global shift toward premium dairy products, an expanding middle class in emerging economies, and a growing trend of snacking and convenience foods. Moreover, the rise in e-commerce platforms has significantly increased access to specialty products, including Emmental, especially in regions with limited local production.

Trends shaping the market include a focus on organic and sustainable farming practices, as well as innovative packaging solutions aimed at preserving freshness. Government initiatives, such as funding for local dairy farmers and regulations supporting the export of high-quality cheeses, are expected to further boost market growth.

The global Emmental cheese market is witnessing steady growth, underpinned by rising consumer demand for high-quality, traditional dairy products. Emmental cheese, prized for its distinct flavor and texture, is becoming increasingly popular across both developed and emerging markets, driven by shifting consumer preferences toward natural and artisanal dairy options.

In particular, the expanding middle class in regions such as Asia-Pacific is contributing to the growth of the market. Additionally, government support through various compensation programs is playing a pivotal role in stabilizing the dairy sector and enhancing market access for Emmental producers.

For instance, the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service reported that Canadian dairy farmers received CAD 468 million in compensation during the 2022-23 marketing year, as part of a package aimed at ensuring market access under trade agreements. This follows a similar compensation of CAD 469 million in the previous year (2021-22).

Furthermore, the Dairy Direct Payment Program announced CAD 1.2 billion in November 2022 to support Canadian dairy farmers over the next six years. These measures are aligned with the trade quota system, such as the 16,000 MT all-cheeses Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) for 2022, including Emmental, and the 1,700 MT TRQ for industrial cheese.

Under the USMCA, both industrial and all-cheeses TRQs will reach 5,208 MT annually by 2024. These policies foster sustainable growth and global market integration for Emmental Cheese.

Key Takeaways

• The Global Emmental Cheese Market is expected to be worth around USD 3.8 Billion by 2033, up from USD 2.5 Billion in 2023, and grow at a CAGR of 4.4% from 2024 to 2033.
• Semi-hard cheese dominates the Emmental cheese market at 65.4%.
• Adults form 55.4% of Emmental cheese market consumers.
• Plastic packaging holds a 48.4% share in Emmental cheese sales.
• Industrial production contributes 76.3% to the Emmental cheese market.
• Household consumption leads, accounting for 68.4% of Emmental cheese.
• The food and beverage sector uses 59.3% of Emmental cheese.
• Supermarkets and hypermarkets account for 45.3% of Emmental cheese sales.
• The Emmental cheese market in North America accounts for 38.2%, USD 0.9 billion.

Business Benefits of Emmental Cheese Market

The Emmental cheese market offers several business benefits, driven by growing consumer demand for traditional and high-quality dairy products. According to government data, cheese production and consumption have steadily increased, particularly in regions like Europe and North America. The market benefits from the rising preference for authentic and artisanal products, with Emmental being a sought-after choice for both households and the food service industry.

Governments have also supported dairy farming through subsidies and agricultural incentives, benefiting cheese producers. For instance, in Europe, agricultural policies help improve the efficiency and sustainability of dairy production, which can enhance profitability for Emmental producers. Additionally, Emmental cheese, known for its unique taste and texture, has a high export potential, especially in markets where there is a growing interest in European cheeses.

As a versatile product, Emmental is used in various food applications, from sandwiches to gourmet dishes, which opens up numerous revenue streams. The market also benefits from trends in health-conscious eating, as Emmental is often considered a natural, protein-rich option compared to processed cheeses. Furthermore, the increasing interest in sustainable food production practices aligns with the cheese’s traditional production methods, offering producers opportunities to attract environmentally conscious consumers.

By Product Type Analysis

Semi-hard Emmental cheese dominates the market, accounting for 65.4% of total sales.

In 2023, Semi-Hard Cheese held a dominant market position in the By Product Type segment of the Emmental Cheese Market, with a 65.4% share, valued at approximately USD 1.5 billion. The semi-hard cheese category is characterized by its balanced texture, moderate moisture content, and ability to retain flavor while offering smooth meltability. This combination of qualities has led to a widespread preference for semi-hard varieties, particularly in both culinary applications and consumer consumption.

On the other hand, Hard Cheese accounted for the remaining 34.6% of the market share, valued at around USD 790 million. Hard cheeses, known for their firmer texture and longer aging process, continue to be popular among consumers seeking a more robust flavor profile and a longer shelf life. Emmental cheese, often classified as semi-hard cheese, benefits from its versatility and widespread use in both retail and food service industries, further solidifying its dominance.

The strong performance of Semi-Hard Cheese is primarily driven by growing consumer demand for versatile and easily accessible cheese options, increasing global interest in cheese-based snacks, and a shift towards plant-based alternatives influencing traditional dairy products. The Hard Cheese segment, while smaller, maintains a steady growth trajectory due to its appeal to gourmet food markets and higher-value segments.

By Age Group Analysis

Adults represent 55.4% of Emmental cheese consumption, fueling market growth globally.

In 2023, Adults held a dominant market position in the By Age Group segment of the Emmental Cheese Market, with a 55.4% share, valued at approximately USD 1.3 billion. This segment’s significant market share is driven by the growing consumption of Emmental cheese among health-conscious adults, particularly those seeking nutritious and versatile food options.

Emmental cheese, with its mild flavor and high calcium content, aligns well with the dietary preferences of this age group, especially in the context of salads, sandwiches, and cooking.

Children represented a smaller but still significant portion of the market, with a share of 28.7%, valued at about USD 680 million. Emmental’s mild and creamy flavor profile makes it an attractive choice for younger consumers, who enjoy it as a snack or in various prepared foods. The appeal of Emmental cheese in children’s diets is also reinforced by its nutritional benefits, such as protein and essential vitamins.

Seniors accounted for the remaining 15.9% of the market share, valued at around USD 380 million. For older adults, Emmental cheese is favored due to its soft texture, digestibility, and the presence of essential nutrients beneficial for bone health. This demographic’s demand for functional foods that support health and wellness has contributed to steady growth in the seniors segment.

By Packaging Type Analysis

Plastic packaging holds a significant share, with 48.4% of Emmental cheese packaging.

In 2023, Plastic held a dominant market position in the By Packaging Type segment of the Emmental Cheese Market, with a 48.4% share, valued at approximately USD 1.1 billion. Plastic packaging is widely preferred due to its lightweight nature, cost-effectiveness, and ability to provide a secure seal that helps extend the shelf life of Emmental cheese.

The flexibility of plastic packaging, including vacuum-sealed pouches and shrink-wrap, also contributes to its popularity, ensuring the cheese remains fresh during distribution and storage.

Composite Materials followed closely, capturing a significant market share of 21.3%, valued at USD 500 million. This packaging type, which combines various materials for enhanced durability and insulation, has gained traction in premium product offerings, catering to consumers who seek both sustainability and superior product protection.

Glass packaging, although less common, accounted for 12.5% of the market share, valued at approximately USD 300 million. Glass offers a premium feel and superior preservation properties, making it popular for high-end Emmental cheese variants aimed at more discerning consumers.

Metal packaging, primarily used for specialty and processed cheese products, held a share of 9.1%, valued at USD 220 million. Lastly, Paper packaging, known for its eco-friendly appeal, represented a smaller portion of the market at 8.7%, valued at USD 210 million.

By Production Method Analysis

Industrial production dominates, comprising 76.3% of the Emmental cheese market’s output.

In 2023, Industrial held a dominant market position in the By Production Method segment of the Emmental Cheese Market, with a 76.3% share, valued at approximately USD 1.8 billion. The industrial production method is characterized by large-scale manufacturing processes that focus on efficiency, consistency, and cost-effectiveness.

With the growing demand for Emmental cheese, particularly in supermarkets and food service sectors, the industrial method is well-suited to meet the volume requirements of the market. This method ensures standardized quality, extended shelf life, and faster production cycles, which are crucial for mass distribution.

In contrast, the Traditional production method captured the remaining 23.7% of the market share, valued at around USD 560 million. Traditional methods, which involve smaller-scale, artisanal cheese-making processes, are often associated with a more authentic flavor and texture.

While this segment holds a smaller market share, it is growing in popularity, especially among premium product lines and consumers seeking higher-quality, handcrafted cheeses. The rising trend toward specialty and artisanal foods has contributed to the steady demand for traditionally produced Emmental cheese, despite the dominance of industrial methods in the broader market.

By End-Use Analysis

Household consumption drives Emmental cheese sales, accounting for 68.4% of total demand.

In 2023, Household held a dominant market position in the By End-Use segment of the Emmental Cheese Market, with a 68.4% share, valued at approximately USD 1.6 billion. This strong market presence can be attributed to the increasing consumption of Emmental cheese in home cooking and snacking, where its mild flavor and versatile texture make it a popular choice for a wide range of culinary applications.

Emmental cheese is commonly used in sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes, and as a topping for baked goods, contributing to its consistent demand among households. Additionally, the growing trend of healthier eating habits and interest in European cheese varieties have further driven its adoption among consumers.

On the other hand, the Industrial segment accounted for the remaining 31.6% of the market share, valued at around USD 740 million. The industrial use of Emmental cheese is predominantly focused on large-scale food production, including its incorporation into ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and processed foods.

Industrial producers benefit from the consistent supply and lower costs associated with bulk manufacturing. As demand for processed and convenience foods rises, the industrial sector continues to expand its share in the overall Emmental cheese market.

By Application Analysis

The food and beverage sector consumes 59.3% of the Emmental cheese produced annually.

In 2023, Food and Beverage held a dominant market position in the By Application segment of the Emmental Cheese Market, with a 59.3% share, valued at approximately USD 1.4 billion. The strong market presence of Emmental cheese in the food and beverage sector is driven by its versatility and wide usage across various cuisines and applications.

As an ingredient in ready-to-eat meals, sauces, sandwiches, and salads, Emmental cheese adds both flavor and texture, making it a staple in the food service industry. Additionally, the growing consumer demand for convenient and nutritious meal solutions has further boosted its use in organic packaged food products.

The Bakery segment followed with a notable share of 26.7%, valued at around USD 640 million. Emmental cheese is a popular choice in bakery products such as bread, croissants, and savory pastries due to its meltability and rich taste. Its inclusion in these products enhances both the flavor profile and the consumer appeal of baked goods.

Confectionery applications accounted for a smaller portion of the market, with a share of 14.0%, valued at approximately USD 330 million. Although less common, Emmental cheese is occasionally incorporated into high-end confectionery products, offering unique flavor combinations in gourmet chocolate and specialty sweets.

By Distribution Channel Analysis

Supermarkets and hypermarkets hold 45.3% of the Emmental cheese market share in distribution.

In 2023, Supermarkets and Hypermarkets held a dominant market position in the By Distribution Channel segment of the Emmental Cheese Market, with a 45.3% share, valued at approximately USD 1.1 billion. The significant share of supermarkets and hypermarkets can be attributed to their wide reach, convenient locations, and ability to offer competitive pricing and promotions.

These retail formats are key players in providing consumers with easy access to a variety of Emmental cheese brands and packaging options, catering to both budget-conscious shoppers and those seeking premium products. Additionally, their large-scale operations and established supply chains ensure a steady availability of fresh products, further driving consumer preference for these channels.

Store-based retail, including smaller retail outlets and local grocery stores, accounted for a notable share of 26.7%, valued at approximately USD 640 million. This segment continues to perform well due to the convenience and familiarity of smaller neighborhood stores.

Specialty Stores, with their focus on high-quality and artisanal cheeses, captured 15.2% of the market share, valued at around USD 370 million. While representing a smaller portion of the overall market, this segment appeals to consumers seeking premium and unique varieties of Emmental cheese.

Online Retail, which has gained traction in recent years, held a share of 12.8%, valued at USD 310 million, driven by increasing e-commerce trends and consumer preference for home delivery services.

Key Market Segments

By Product Type

• Semi-hard Cheese
• Hard Cheese

By Age Group

• Adults
• Children
• Seniors

By Packaging Type

• Composite Materials
• Glass
• Metal
• Paper
• Plastic

By Production Method

• Industrial
• Traditional

By End-use

• Household
• Industrial

By Application

• Food and beverage
• Bakery
• Confectionery

By Distribution channel

• Store Based Retail
• Specialty Stores
• Online Retail
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Others

Driving Factors

Rising Demand for Natural and Artisan Cheeses

The growing preference for natural, organic, and artisanal cheeses is a significant factor driving the Emmental cheese market. As consumers become more health-conscious, they are increasingly choosing products made from high-quality, natural ingredients.

Emmental, known for its mild and nutty flavor, fits well into this trend. This shift towards clean-label, minimally processed foods has led to a rise in the consumption of specialty cheeses like Emmental, as they are perceived to be more authentic and better for overall health. This trend is expected to continue as demand for healthier options increases.

Growing Popularity of Swiss Cuisine and Dishes

Emmental cheese’s strong association with Swiss cuisine plays a crucial role in its market expansion. The popularity of Swiss food items, such as fondue, raclette, and other traditional dishes, has made Emmental a key ingredient in various recipes globally.

As international consumers become more familiar with Swiss culinary traditions, they are incorporating Emmental into their diets. Restaurants and food service providers are also increasingly adding Emmental to their offerings, further increasing its exposure. This widespread acceptance is fueling the demand for Emmental cheese in diverse regions.

Expansion of Online Retail and E-commerce Platforms

The rise of online grocery shopping and e-commerce platforms has significantly boosted the accessibility of specialty cheeses, including Emmental. Consumers can now easily purchase Emmental from both large retailers and niche specialty stores. This online shopping convenience, combined with an increase in home cooking and gourmet food experiences, has driven market growth.

E-commerce platforms offer a wide range of Emmental cheese options, providing consumers with more choices in terms of brand, origin, and price point. As more people turn to online shopping, the Emmental cheese market is expected to benefit from expanded distribution channels.

Restraining Factors

High Production Costs and Pricing Challenges

One of the major restraints on the Emmental cheese market is the high production cost associated with its manufacturing. The process of producing Emmental cheese requires specialized equipment, skilled labor, and long aging periods, which increases the overall cost.

As a result, these higher production expenses are often passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices. This can make Emmental cheese-less affordable, particularly for price-sensitive buyers or in markets where consumers are more accustomed to cheaper alternatives, limiting its broader market appeal.

Limited Availability of Raw Materials for Production

Another significant challenge for the Emmental cheese market is the limited availability of high-quality raw materials needed for production. The milk used in Emmental cheese must come from specific breeds of cows that produce high-quality milk, which can be difficult to source consistently.

Additionally, geographical restrictions on where Emmental can be produced, particularly in regions outside of Switzerland, can limit supply. This limited raw material availability restricts the ability of producers to scale production, potentially causing supply shortages and driving up prices in certain markets.

Growing Competition from Alternative Cheeses

The rise in popularity of alternative cheeses, including plant-based and dairy-free options, is becoming a significant restraint for the Emmental cheese market. As consumer preferences shift towards vegan and lactose-free diets, many people are opting for non-dairy cheeses that mimic traditional varieties.

These alternatives often offer similar textures and flavors to Emmental cheese but without the use of animal products. This shift in dietary preferences challenges the traditional dairy cheese market, especially as consumers seek more ethical or health-conscious food choices, limiting the demand for Emmental cheese.

Growth Opportunity

Expanding Demand for Plant-Based Cheese Alternatives

With the growing popularity of plant-based diets and veganism, there is an emerging opportunity for the Emmental cheese market to diversify its product range. Companies can explore the development of plant-based versions of Emmental cheese, which could cater to the increasing number of consumers seeking dairy-free options.

This trend is not only driven by dietary preferences but also concerns about environmental sustainability. By innovating with plant-based ingredients, the market can tap into a new customer base while maintaining the distinct taste and texture that Emmental is known for.

Rising Popularity of Cheese in Global Cuisines

As international cuisines become more popular, especially in urban areas, the demand for various types of cheese, including Emmental, is growing. Emmental’s distinctive flavor and melting properties make it ideal for use in a wide variety of dishes, including sandwiches, fondues, and baked goods.

This global exposure can open doors for the Emmental cheese market in new regions, such as Asia-Pacific, where cheese consumption has been increasing steadily. By positioning Emmental cheese in fusion dishes, manufacturers can drive its adoption in diverse culinary traditions.

Growing Trend of Premium and Gourmet Food Products

Consumers are becoming more willing to pay a premium for gourmet and specialty food items, including high-quality cheeses. As disposable incomes rise, particularly in developed markets, people are opting for more indulgent and unique food experiences.

Emmental cheese, with its rich flavor and artisanal appeal, fits perfectly into this luxury food trend. Manufacturers can capitalize on this opportunity by promoting Emmental as a premium product, targeting higher-end restaurants, specialty food retailers, and health-conscious consumers who appreciate the value of authentic, high-quality cheeses.

Latest Trends

Increasing Consumer Preference for Premium Cheese Varieties

One of the latest trends in the Emmental cheese market is the growing consumer preference for premium and specialty cheeses. With a shift toward higher-quality, unique, and flavorful products, consumers are willing to pay more for cheeses that offer distinctive taste profiles, like the nutty and slightly sweet flavor of Emmental.

This trend is particularly strong in urban areas, where people are more inclined to experiment with new, gourmet food products. As a result, there is an expanding market for premium Emmental, boosting its presence in high-end retail stores and gourmet restaurants.

Growing Popularity of Emmental in International Cuisine

Emmental cheese is increasingly being incorporated into international cuisines, contributing to its market growth. The mild, nutty flavor of Emmental makes it versatile, perfect for various dishes, from sandwiches and salads to fondue and pasta.

As global travel and cross-cultural food exchanges continue to rise, Emmental is gaining popularity outside its traditional European market, particularly in North America and Asia. This trend reflects a growing appreciation for Swiss and European cheeses in general, expanding Emmental’s presence across diverse culinary traditions and food cultures worldwide.

Rise in Cheese-based Snacks and Convenience Foods

The demand for convenient, on-the-go snacks is another trend influencing the Emmental cheese market. As busy lifestyles become more common, consumers are looking for quick yet satisfying snack options, and cheese-based snacks fit this need.

Emmental’s mild flavor and smooth texture make it a popular choice for inclusion in pre-packaged cheese sticks, crackers, and snack platters. This shift towards convenience foods, combined with the desire for healthier snack options, offers significant growth opportunities for Emmental cheese manufacturers to innovate and capture a larger share of the snacking market.

Regional Analysis

The Emmental cheese market in North America holds a 38.2% share, valued at USD 0.9 billion.

North America holds a dominant position in the Emmental cheese market, accounting for 38.2% of the global share, valued at approximately USD 0.9 billion. The region’s growing demand for premium and artisanal cheeses, particularly in the United States and Canada, contributes to this significant market share. The preference for natural, high-quality cheeses and the increasing consumption of cheese in various food products are key growth drivers here.

Europe, the birthplace of Emmental cheese, is another crucial market, holding a substantial share. Countries like Switzerland, Germany, and France continue to see strong demand for Emmental due to its rich heritage and use in traditional and modern recipes. The European market is expected to grow steadily, supported by the increasing trend of premiumization and innovation in cheese products.

Asia Pacific is witnessing a rapid increase in Emmental cheese consumption, especially in countries like Japan and China. As disposable incomes rise and Western diets become more integrated into local food cultures, Emmental’s appeal is expanding. The region is expected to experience strong growth in the coming years.

Middle East & Africa and Latin America present emerging opportunities, with growth driven by rising urbanization and the expanding popularity of Western-style cheese products. However, these regions currently contribute a smaller share of the market compared to North America and Europe.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The global Emmental cheese market is highly competitive, with several established and emerging players actively shaping its growth trajectory. Leading companies like Arla Foods, Bel Group, and Dairy Farmers of America are capitalizing on the increasing demand for premium cheese, expanding their product portfolios, and strengthening distribution networks.

These major players leverage their established brands to penetrate new markets, offering both traditional and innovative Emmental cheese variants to cater to evolving consumer tastes.

Arla Foods, with its strong global presence, continues to innovate with product offerings that align with consumer preferences for natural and organic cheeses. Similarly, Bel Group and FrieslandCampina focus on offering Emmental cheese through multiple distribution channels, enhancing consumer accessibility.

Emmi and Entremont Saga are also key players, with a robust market presence in Europe and North America. These companies focus on premium quality, leveraging advanced manufacturing techniques and strong relationships with local farmers to ensure the production of high-quality Emmental cheeses.

Companies like Fonterra and Kraft Heinz, meanwhile, benefit from their global distribution networks and strong brand recognition, enabling them to offer a variety of cheese products, including Emmental, in both retail and food service sectors.

Regional players such as Guggisberg Cheese and Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation provide competitive pricing while targeting specific local markets. Meanwhile, emerging brands like Little Green Cheese and Miforma Cheese are tapping into niche consumer segments, focusing on organic, artisanal, and sustainable production methods.

Top Key Players in the Market

• Arla Foods
• Bel Group
• Dairy Farmers of America
• Emmi
• Entremont saga
• Finlandia Cheese
• Fonterra
• FrieslandCampina
• Guggisberg Cheese
• Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation
• Kraft Heinz
• Lactalis
• Little Green Cheese
• Miforma Cheese
• Nestle
• Parmalat
• Président Cheese
• Queso Los Mochis
• Savencia Fromage and Dairy
• Synergia
• Tetra Pak
• Vallombrosa Cheese Company

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Bel Group focused on enhancing Emmental cheese production through technology, sustainability efforts, and innovative packaging. They prioritized responsible sourcing, environmental impact reduction, and maintaining high quality while expanding their global market presence in the dairy sector.
• In 2023, Arla Foods focused on producing high-quality Emmental cheese, emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and environmentally-friendly practices. Their efforts included improving cheese quality, expanding product lines, and ensuring responsible production methods to meet consumer demands.

Report Scope