South America Cheese Market Outlook, 2027

The cheese market in South America is primarily driven by significant growth in the food and beverage industry. Along with this, the proliferating quick-service restaurants (QSRs) across the region and the shifting dietary preferences of the masses are creating a positive outlook for the market. Moreover, the increasing preference for online food delivery services is also providing a boost to market growth. Other factors driving market growth include rapid urbanization, innovative marketing strategies adopted by numerous regional players, and the introduction of processed and flavour variants of cheese. Cheese is produced by the milk protein casein. It is a rich source of essential nutrients, such as protein, fat, calcium, and minerals. Cheese is widely utilised in the preparation of a variety of dishes, their consumption aids in improving bone health and preventing osteoporosis. Some of the commonly available cheese variants on the market include parmesan, cheddar, Roquefort, and feta. According to the research report, "South America Cheese Market Outlook, 2027," published by Bonafide Research, the market is anticipated to grow at a rate of 5.61% CAGR during the forecast period. South American consumers are looking for more flavour options when it comes to cheese, representing an untapped market opportunity for manufacturers as just 12% of new cheese introductions in the region between January 2017 and April 2018 were flavour options. South America's flavoring cheese introductions lag behind other international markets such as Europe and North America, where new flavoring options were introduced during the same time period. Consumer interest among South American consumers for flavoring cheese products is strong. Nearly eight in 10 Brazilians stated that they want to try more flavours in cheese, such as cranberry and herbs. In fact, many consumers are seeking out flavour profiles similar to what can be found in other international markets.

Further, South America is famous for its large-format mountain cheeses, including Reggianito from Argentina and Uruguay, Queijo de Minas from Brazil, and an aged Gruyere-style from Ecuador. Popular cheeses of Argentine origin include Reggianito, Sardo, Cremoso, Provoleta, and Pategrás. Mozzarella (Felices Las Vacas, Argentina), Queso Cremoso (Felices Las Vacas, Argentina), Rawmesan (Natural Seed, Argentina), Queso Untable Fantastique Finas Hierbas (Felices Las Vacas, Argentina) and Questaa Queso Vegano Ahumado (Felices Las Vacas, Argentina) is some of the best vegan cheese in South America as of 2021. In South America, queso frescoes, found throughout the region and often used in sauces and soups, are ever-present. However, aged and raw milk cheeses, some made with sheep or goat milk, are increasing in popularity. Some of these cheese makers are rescuing or attempting to preserve traditional methods, while others are applying European techniques to their own landscape. South America is home to prominent market players who produce and offer a variety of cheese in the region. This, in confluence with the escalating demand for cheese ingredients such as cultures, enzymes, milk, additives, and other cheese-related products, represents one of the significant factors driving the market's growth. Apart from this, the rapidly changing lifestyles and eating patterns of individuals are acting as another growth-inducing factor. On the other hand, soft cheese has been recording very strong growth in Brazil during the pandemic, flavoring not only its low prices but also its versatility; for example, soft cheese can be consumed with bread for breakfast, in snacks, or used in the preparation of meals. Brands such as Sadia and Quatá were also able to retail at highly competitive on-shelf prices for mozzarella in key channels, helping to reinforce their appeal as cost-effective offerings. Fresh cheeses from South America include para queso, blanco, panela, and ranchero. These cheeses are high in moisture and pH. In general, these cheeses do not melt, can be crumbly, and tend to have a very mild, milky flavor. Covid-19 Impacts: As COVID-19 spreads through South America, countries are closing their borders, consumers are practicing social isolation, and South American food consumption and purchasing habits are changing. The sudden shift in behaviors is challenging the cheese industry to study changing information and reinvent business practices. During the initial phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, the food industries witnessed a decline in the cheese market due to movement restrictions, de-globalization, loss of income, restrictions on import and export of products, and restrictions in the supply of raw materials, among others. All these factors impacted the market's growth negatively. However, a change in consumer behavior and growing demands for fast-food chains across the region are anticipated to boost market growth.

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Manmayi Raval

Research Consultant

Major Companies present in the market Mondelez International Group, The Kraft Heinz Company, FrieslandCampina Professional, Arla Food Amba, Saputo Inc., Savencia Fromage & Dairy, Glanbia Almarai, Lactalis Group Considered in this report • Geography: South America • Historic year: 2016 • Base year: 2021 • Estimated year: 2022 • Forecast year: 2027 Aspects covered in this report • South America Cheese market with its value and forecast along with its segments • Countries-wise cheese market analysis • Various drivers and challenges • On-going trends and developments • Top profiled companies • Strategic recommendation

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Countries covered in the report • Brazil • Argentina • Colombia 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.