PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1886961
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1886961
The global parmesan cheese market continues its upward momentum, driven by the booming popularity of gourmet foods, expanding foodservice channels, and shifting consumer preferences toward premium dairy products. According to the latest estimates, the global parmesan cheese market was valued at USD 12.54 billion in 2024, is set to reach USD 13.18 billion in 2025, and is projected to grow significantly to USD 20.41 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 6.44% from 2025 to 2032. In 2024, Europe dominated the global market with a commanding 60.53% share, owing to its strong dairy heritage and high per-capita cheese consumption.
Market Overview
Parmesan cheese-traditionally known as Parmigiano-Reggiano-is a premium hard cheese originating from Italy. It is widely used in pasta, gourmet dishes, sauces, soups, bakery items, and ready meals due to its strong umami flavor and granular texture. The global market is experiencing rapid growth as consumers show heightened interest in specialty cheeses, artisanal foods, and premium culinary experiences. Leading producers such as The Kraft Heinz Company, Fonterra Co-operative Group, Arla Foods, Saputo Inc., FrieslandCampina, and Zanetti continue to expand their product portfolios to meet evolving global demand.
Market Trends
One of the most prominent trends reshaping the parmesan cheese landscape is the rapid rise of vegan and plant-based parmesan alternatives, particularly in Western markets. Consumers in regions such as Europe and North America are increasingly adopting plant-based diets due to health, ethical, and environmental concerns. As a result, vegan cheese variants-although priced at a premium-are gaining steady traction. Europe, for instance, recorded an increase in the value of plant-based cheese from USD 7.33 billion in 2023 to USD 7.59 billion in 2024, highlighting the region's shifting consumption patterns.
Market Dynamics
Drivers
Growing demand for convenience foods and fast-food products is a key driver behind market expansion. Parmesan cheese, available in multiple convenient formats (grated, shredded, powdered, block), blends seamlessly into processed foods, ready-to-eat meals, and quick-serve restaurant menus. Its long shelf life and intense flavor make it ideal for packaged foods and home cooking.
Additionally, the rising global influence of Italian cuisine-notably pasta, pizza, risotto, and gourmet salads-has boosted parmesan usage in foodservice outlets worldwide. The cheese's versatility in both traditional and fusion dishes ensures its steady demand across regions.
Restraints
Counterfeit and imitation parmesan products pose significant challenges. Despite regulatory supervision, fake parmesan often enters markets, particularly outside Europe, overshadowing authentic brands and impacting consumer trust. Rising raw material costs, especially milk and dairy inputs, may further strain manufacturers' margins.
Opportunities
There is a major opportunity in the global rise of artisanal and specialty cheese consumption. Consumers increasingly seek authentic origin-certified cheeses, handcrafted varieties, and gourmet-grade products. This trend has encouraged manufacturers to invest in small-batch production and product differentiation. For example, Sartori Cheese launched parmesan-based "Cheese Bites" in 2025, appealing to snack-focused consumers looking for high-quality, protein-rich dairy options.
By Source
The animal-based segment dominated the market in 2024 due to traditional dairy preferences and strong nutritional value. The plant-based segment, however, is poised for the fastest growth as vegan alternatives become mainstream worldwide.
By Form
The grated segment led the market in 2024, driven by its convenience, strong flavor, and use in pasta, pizza, soups, and commercial kitchens. Block parmesan is expected to grow steadily due to its longer shelf life and popularity in food manufacturing.
By Distribution Channel
Supermarkets and hypermarkets held the largest share due to wide product availability, discounts, and ease of access. Online retail is set to expand quickly, supported by growing e-commerce penetration and demand for specialty dairy products ordered directly to homes.
Europe
Europe remained the largest market in 2024 with a value of USD 7.59 billion, supported by strong dairy infrastructure, deep-rooted cheese culture, and rising demand for vegan cheese. Plant-based cheese value grew 7% between 2022 and 2023, reflecting evolving consumer choices.
North America
The U.S. continues to lead in production and consumption. In 2023, U.S. cheese output reached 14.11 billion pounds, marking record growth. Strong presence of brands such as BelGioioso, Sargento, and Kraft Heinz supports market expansion.
Asia Pacific
Urbanization, migration, and increasing dairy consumption drive demand. Australia exported USD 699 million in cheese in 2023, reinforcing its position as a major supplier.
South America
Brazil leads consumption, with an average 5.6 kg per capita cheese intake annually, supported by strong dairy farming conditions.
Middle East & Africa
Rising incomes, a diverse expatriate population, and growing interest in Italian cuisine fuel parmesan demand, particularly in the UAE.
Conclusion
With the global market projected to rise from USD 12.54 billion in 2024 to USD 20.41 billion by 2032, parmesan cheese continues to benefit from global culinary trends, expanding foodservice networks, and strong demand for gourmet and convenience foods.
Segmentation By Source
By Form
By Distribution Channel
By Region