North America Plant-based Cheese Market Outlook, 2028

In North America, there has been a significant shift in consumer preferences toward plant-based cheese, driving a substantial increase in the market for these dairy-free alternatives. This transformation is reflective of changing dietary habits, growing environmental consciousness, and a heightened focus on health and wellness among consumers in the region. As people become more aware of the ethical and environmental concerns associated with traditional dairy production, they are actively seeking sustainable and cruelty-free options. One of the key factors propelling this shift is the availability of high-quality plant-based cheese products that closely mimic the taste and texture of their dairy counterparts. Advancements in food technology and manufacturing processes have allowed for significant improvements in the sensory characteristics of plant-based cheeses, making them more appealing to a broader audience. Plant-based cheeses, made from ingredients such as nuts, soy, and coconut, offer a more sustainable option with a significantly lower carbon footprint. Vegan cheese has a range of flavors, from mild & nutty to sharp & tangy, achieved through nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste & herbs, spices, & fruits for unique profiles. Some brands also use fermented ingredients like miso or kimchi to add a pungent taste. In North America, the start-ups for the vegan cheese includes Forager Project, which is a California-based company that makes plant-based cheeses from cashews, almonds, and coconuts, others includes Miyoko's Creamery, Violife is a Greek company that makes plant-based cheeses from coconut oil, tapioca starch, and pea protein, Treeline Cheese, and Follow Your Heart startup. According to the research report, “North America Plant Based Cheese Market Overview, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the market was valued more than USD 334 Million market size in 2022. The plant-based cheese market in North America has experienced a remarkable surge in recent years, reflecting changing consumer preferences and a growing awareness of sustainability and health-conscious consumers are increasingly turning to plant-based cheese due to its lower saturated fat content and absence of cholesterol, aligning with their desire for healthier dietary choices. Additionally, as more people adopt vegetarian, vegan, or lactose-free diets, the demand for plant-based cheese continues to soar. Plant based cheese comes in variety of textures, color, flavors, odor and with the involvement of innovative ingredients. Additionally, many plant-based cheeses are fortified with essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D, calcium, and protein, making them a more nutritionally balanced choice.

On the basis of North America geography, the market is segmented in to United States, Canada, and Mexico. Among these countries, The United States and Canada, the two largest countries in North America, have played pivotal roles in driving this market's growth. In the United States, the plant-based cheese industry has seen a substantial uptick, with consumers increasingly embracing vegan and dairy-free alternatives, thus it has the market size of more than USD 248 Million in 2022. Major American cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco have witnessed a proliferation of vegan restaurants and specialty stores, boosting the demand for plant-based cheese products. Canada, too, has seen a surge in plant-based cheese consumption, particularly in urban centers such as Toronto and Vancouver. As more consumers in both countries seek healthier and more environmentally friendly options, the plant-based cheese market in North America is poised to continue its expansion, with a diverse range of innovative products catering to a broad spectrum of tastes and dietary preferences. The plant-based cheese market is experiencing rapid growth and diversification, with segmentation based on various cheese products. This segmentation includes popular cheese varieties such as Mozzarella, Cheddar, Feta, Parmesan, Roquefort, and others. Mozzarella, often associated with pizza, has been a focal point in the plant-based cheese market due to its widespread use in various culinary applications. Plant-based Mozzarella cheese offers the meltability and stretchiness that consumers crave, making it a staple in the vegan pizza and pasta industries. Cheddar, known for its sharp and tangy flavor, has also seen a surge in plant-based alternatives. Plant-based Cheddar cheese is utilized in sandwiches, burgers, and snacks, providing a satisfying cheesy experience without dairy. Feta, a crumbly and savory cheese, has gained popularity for its use in Mediterranean cuisine. Plant-based Feta cheese allows consumers to enjoy the authentic taste and texture in dishes like salads and pastries while aligning with dietary preferences. Parmesan, renowned for its nutty and umami-rich profile, is another cheese variety that has found its place in the plant-based market. Plant-based Parmesan alternatives are used to sprinkle over pasta, salads, and other dishes, giving them a cheesy, savory kick. As the plant-based cheese market continues to evolve and expand, consumers can expect an even broader range of choices within these product segments, making it easier than ever to enjoy plant-based cheese in their favorite dishes while contributing to sustainability and animal welfare. In the North American plant-based cheese market, distributional channels play a pivotal role in making these products accessible to consumers. Among these channels, hypermarkets and supermarkets stand out as the primary choice for consumers when purchasing plant-based cheese. These large retail outlets offer a wide selection of products, including various brands and flavors of plant-based cheese, making it convenient for consumers to find their preferred options during their regular grocery shopping trips. As a result, hypermarkets and supermarkets hold the largest share in the plant-based cheese market due to their extensive reach and popularity. Conventional stores also play a significant role, with many consumers preferring the convenience of neighborhood grocery stores for their plant-based cheese purchases. These stores often carry a curated selection of plant-based products, catering to local preferences and ensuring that plant-based cheese remains readily available to a broad customer base. In recent years, the online channel has witnessed remarkable growth in the North American plant-based cheese market. Consumers are increasingly turning to e-commerce platforms to explore and purchase plant-based cheese products. The online channel offers convenience, a broader variety of choices, and the ability to compare products and prices, which resonates with consumers seeking specific dietary preferences and niche flavors. Additionally, the rise of direct-to-consumer brands and specialized online retailers has further fueled the online sales of plant-based cheese.

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Manmayi Raval

Research Consultant

Considered in this report: • Geography: North America • Historic year: 2017 • Base year: 2022 • Estimated year: 2023 • Forecast year: 2028 Aspects covered in this report: • North America Plant Based 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 Type: • Mozzarella • Cheddar • Feta • Parmesan • Roquefort • Others

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By Distribution Channel: • Hypermarkets and Supermarkets • Convenience Stores • E-Commerce • 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 list out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, and annual reports 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 conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers into regional aspects, tier aspects, age groups, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources. Intended audience: This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to the Plant Based 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.