Sacre bleu!
OPINION: This old mutt hears some of the world's favourite cheese could soon disappear off shop shelves unless science can find a way to save the mould that makes them.
It says the global cheese market is growing strongly, driven by countries such as Brazil, where cheese consumption is expected to triple in the next decade.
However, the top five global brands Kraft, Philadelphia, President, Sargento and Galbani hold only 10% or less market share.
“With rising competition, top [producers] are using unique strategies, such as new product traits and uses, to differentiate themselves from other brands,” says Dhara Badiani, analyst at Canadean.
The rising populace of Brazil, China and India, with more money to spend, buys more processed foods including cheese.
“Pizza, pasta and sandwiches have become more popular in many emerging markets in recent years,” says Badiani.
Simultaneously, modern retail stores and fast food chains are driving retail and on-trade sales of cheese.
“Hypermarkets and supermarkets are the leading retail channels for cheese, offering a wide range including multi-brand, private label and specialty products,” Badiani argues.
The report also finds the Brazilian cheese market one of fastest growing globally. Brazilians ate on average only 3.4kg in 2009, but per capita consumption rose to 5.4kg in 2014 and is expected to reach 8.6kg in 2019.
Brazil, the world’s fifth-largest cheese market by volume, is expected to be third in 2019. This means in five years, or less, Brazilians’ cheese consumption will match that of the French (1.8b kg).
