Brazil Cheese Market Overview, 2030

The cheese market in Brazil has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by the country’s expanding middle class, increasing urbanization, and a shift in consumer preferences toward Western food products. Historically, cheese has been a staple in Brazilian cuisine, with traditional varieties such as Minas cheese, which is a soft, fresh cheese commonly used in local dishes. However, the market has seen a growing demand for a wider range of cheeses, particularly those inspired by international culinary trends. Western cheeses, including mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan, are gaining popularity, particularly as Brazilian consumers become more exposed to global food cultures through media, travel, and the increasing influence of international fast food chains. The rise in disposable incomes, coupled with a growing middle class, has led to greater demand for processed and packaged foods, with cheese playing an essential role in meals such as sandwiches, pizza, and pasta. In urban centers like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, cheese has become an integral part of the daily diet, reflecting the broader trend of increased cheese consumption. Moreover, the popularity of international food chains, especially pizza chains and fast-food outlets, has contributed to the rise of cheese consumption in Brazil, with mozzarella being the most consumed variety. Brazilian consumers are also embracing cheese as a versatile ingredient in both traditional and modern dishes, including in cheese-filled pastries, snacks, and even in local favorites such as pão de queijo (cheese bread). The rapid expansion of supermarket chains and e-commerce platforms has made a variety of domestic and imported cheese products widely accessible to consumers across the country, further boosting the market’s growth.

According to the research report "Brazil Cheese Market Overview, 2030," published by Bonafide Research, the Brazil cheese market is anticipated to grow at more than 5.04% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. Brazil’s cheese market is characterized by several key trends, including a growing demand for premium and specialty cheeses, increased product diversification, and a shift toward healthier cheese options. As the Brazilian palate becomes more sophisticated, there has been an increased demand for gourmet and artisanal cheeses, both from local producers and from international markets. In particular, Brazilian consumers are increasingly seeking out European cheeses, such as Gouda, Brie, and Parmesan, which are becoming more available in major urban centers. Moreover, the growing trend of food tourism and the rise of gourmet dining experiences have contributed to the expanding interest in high-quality cheeses. In addition to imported varieties, local cheese producers are focusing on developing new and innovative products, such as flavored cheeses that cater to Brazilian tastes, including cheeses spiced with chili or those that pair well with traditional dishes like feijoada. Health-consciousness is another trend shaping the cheese market in Brazil, with more consumers opting for low-fat, reduced-sodium, and lactose-free cheese options. This is aligned with a broader global trend toward healthier eating habits, which is influencing food choices across all demographics. In response to this, Brazilian cheese producers are introducing healthier alternatives, including organic cheeses and those with added nutritional benefits. Furthermore, the market for plant-based and vegan cheese alternatives is beginning to gain momentum, driven by the growing number of consumers who are adopting plant-based diets or are lactose intolerant. Sustainability is also becoming an important consideration in Brazil’s cheese market, with both producers and consumers placing increasing emphasis on environmentally friendly practices. Efforts to improve the environmental impact of cheese production, including better waste management and sustainable sourcing of ingredients, are becoming more prevalent. The expansion of digital marketing and online platforms has also played a significant role in the growth of the cheese market, as consumers are now able to easily purchase a wide range of cheeses online, from domestic varieties to international imports. This accessibility, combined with a greater interest in diverse and high-quality cheese products, is driving the continued expansion of Brazil’s cheese market, with new opportunities emerging as consumer tastes continue to evolve.

In Brazil, the cheese market is characterized by a wide variety of cheese types that cater to both traditional local tastes and growing international influences. Mozzarella, a staple in Brazilian cuisine, is highly favored for its use in pizzas, which are extremely popular across the country, particularly in urban areas. Mozzarella’s versatility in both hot and cold dishes has made it a household favorite, and its demand continues to grow with the increasing consumption of fast food and convenience meals. Cheddar, while not as ingrained in Brazilian culinary tradition, has gained significant popularity, particularly in the fast-food and processed food sectors. It is widely used in sandwiches, burgers, and ready-to-eat meals. Parmesan also plays a key role in the Brazilian cheese market, primarily in higher-end dining and in pasta-based dishes, which have become increasingly popular in urban centers. The country's rich dairy culture is evident in the local consumption of Feta and other cheeses, which are growing in popularity due to the rising trend of Mediterranean diets and healthier eating habits. Brazilian consumers are gradually developing a more sophisticated palate for diverse and premium cheeses, with local dairy producers experimenting with artisanal and gourmet varieties to meet the increasing demand for high-quality cheese. While traditional cheeses remain central to the Brazilian market, the country is also embracing more international options, driven by both domestic innovation and global culinary trends.

Brazil’s cheese market is experiencing a strong shift towards natural cheese consumption, as health-conscious consumers demand products that are free from artificial additives and preservatives. Natural cheeses such as Mozzarella, Cheddar, and Parmesan are particularly popular in both home-cooked and dining-out scenarios, where consumers prefer products made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Natural cheese is increasingly associated with premium products, and there is a growing appreciation for traditional cheese-making processes that involve minimal processing. The rise of the organic food trend in Brazil has further fueled this demand, with consumers opting for natural cheeses that are produced with organic milk, which is perceived as a healthier and more sustainable choice. The popularity of natural cheeses is also driven by increasing awareness about the health benefits of minimally processed foods, such as their potential to maintain higher nutritional content and fewer additives. However, processed cheese still maintains a large share of the market, particularly for convenience and affordability. Processed cheese products such as cheese slices, spreads, and snacks are used widely in Brazil's snack food and fast-food industries due to their longer shelf life, cost-effectiveness, and easy use in quick meal solutions. The balance between natural and processed cheese reflects Brazil’s evolving consumer preferences, with more premium, health-conscious options gaining traction alongside affordable, accessible processed alternatives.

In Brazil, the cheese market is predominantly centered around animal-based dairy products, with cow’s milk being the main source for the majority of the country’s cheese production. Cow’s milk is used to produce a wide range of cheeses, including Mozzarella, Cheddar, and Parmesan, which are the most commonly consumed varieties. Brazil has a strong dairy industry that produces large quantities of milk, and the country’s diverse climate allows for the production of various cheese types, from soft and mild to aged and sharp varieties. Goat's milk is also used to produce specialty cheeses, such as Feta and artisanal goat cheeses, which are gaining popularity due to their distinct flavor and health benefits. While sheep’s milk is less common in Brazil, some premium cheeses, including certain blue cheeses and Roquefort-style products, are made from sheep’s milk. The plant-based cheese segment in Brazil is also growing, albeit at a slower pace compared to animal-based varieties. As in many other countries, Brazilian consumers are becoming more aware of dietary restrictions, such as lactose intolerance, as well as ethical concerns related to animal products, leading to increased demand for plant-based cheese alternatives. Plant-based cheeses, made from ingredients like soy, cashews, and almonds, are primarily targeted at vegan and lactose-intolerant consumers, though they are also appealing to a broader demographic of health-conscious individuals. The plant-based cheese market in Brazil is still emerging, but it is expanding rapidly as more consumers embrace plant-based diets and seek out dairy-free options. As Brazilian cheese production continues to diversify, the market is expected to see increasing variety, catering to both traditional preferences and emerging consumer demands for plant-based alternatives.



Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Cheese market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product
• Mozzarella
• Cheddar
• Feta
• Parmesan
• Roquefort
• Others

By Source
• Animals
• Plants

By Type
• Natural
• Processed

By Distribution Channel
• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Specialty Stores
• Online retail
• Others

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to Cheese industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.