Goat Cheese Market Size and Share
Goat Cheese Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence
The goat cheese market is estimated to be USD 8.21 billion in 2025 and USD 10.50 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.31% during the forecast period. The market expansion is attributed to heightened consumer health consciousness. Goat cheese's reduced lactose content and enhanced digestibility compared to traditional cow's milk cheese create market opportunities among lactose-intolerant consumers and those seeking dairy alternatives. The market benefits from increased demand for premium and artisanal dairy products, reflecting consumers' evolving preferences for distinct flavors. Enhanced accessibility through e-commerce platforms and specialty food stores, combined with urbanization and busy lifestyles, has increased goat cheese consumption as a convenient food ingredient. Production technology improvements, sustainable farming practices, and enhanced packaging solutions support market development. The market also gains momentum from growing organic product preferences, an expanding foodservice industry, and increased online sales channels.
Key Report Takeaways
- By product type, chèvre led with 52.38% of goat cheese market share in 2024; mozzarella is projected to expand at an 8.52% CAGR to 2030.
- By form, logs and rolls captured 38.53% of the category in 2024; crumbles are poised for 5.90% CAGR through 2030.
- By packaging, vacuum-sealed pouches commanded a 42.88% share in 2024; MAP tubs and cups are growing at 7.19% CAGR.
- By distribution channel, supermarkets/hypermarkets held 57.21% share in 2024; online retail is the fastest-growing at 8.44% CAGR to 2030.
- By geography, Europe dominated with 38.42% revenue share in 2024; Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region at 6.20% CAGR to 2030.
Global Goat Cheese Market Trends and Insights
Drivers Impact Analysis
Driver | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
---|---|---|---|
Rising Popularity of lactose-friendly cheese among millennials | +1.2% | Global, with concentration in North America and Europe | Medium term (2-4 years) |
Rising demand for artisanal and gourmet products | +0.9% | North America and Europe, expanding to urban Asia-Pacific | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
Expansion of foodservice industry | +0.8% | Global, led by Asia-Pacific and North America | Medium term (2-4 years) |
Surge in organic and grass-fed goat cheese demand | +0.7% | North America and Europe, emerging in Australia | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
Increased demand for ready-to-eat food products | +0.6% | Global, particularly urban centers | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
Urbanization and changing food preferences | +0.5% | Asia-Pacific core, spill-over to Latin America | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
Source: Mordor Intelligence
Rising Popularity of Lactose-Friendly Cheese among Millennials
The increasing consumer preference for lactose-friendly cheese among millennials significantly influences the global goat cheese market growth, driven by heightened awareness of lactose intolerance and evolving dietary preferences toward healthier options. Millennials demonstrate a strong inclination toward wellness-focused and dietary-inclusive food choices, particularly gravitating toward easily digestible cheese varieties. The inherently lower lactose content in goat cheese compared to traditional cow's milk cheese positions it as an optimal choice for consumers with lactose sensitivities. The market expansion potential is particularly pronounced in regions with considerable lactose intolerance prevalence. According to World Population Review data from 2025, 61% of India's population experiences lactose intolerance, while Canada reports 59%, and the United States records 36% of their respective populations [1]Source: World Population Review, "Lactose Intolerance by Country 2025", worldpopulationreview.com. These demographic patterns present substantial opportunities for goat cheese manufacturers to strengthen their market presence and address the expanding consumer segment seeking lactose-friendly dairy alternatives, thereby contributing to the sustained growth of the global goat cheese market.
Rising Demand for Artisanal and Gourmet Products
The global goat cheese market exhibits a substantial growth trajectory, primarily attributed to the increasing sophistication in consumer preferences for artisanal and gourmet dairy products. Market analysis demonstrates that consumers, particularly urban demographics and culinary connoisseurs, display pronounced preferences toward cheese varieties distinguished by their complex flavor profiles, traditional manufacturing methodologies, and authenticated geographical origins. This fundamental transformation in consumer behavior has compelled manufacturers to strategically develop products that emphasize traditional craftsmanship and regional heritage. For instance, in September 2024, Vermont Creamery executed a strategic product portfolio expansion through the introduction of Coupole and Bijou soft-ripened goat cheeses via premium retail establishments, including Whole Foods. These significant market developments, in conjunction with the evolving consumer preferences and increasing demand for premium dairy products, substantiate the robust growth trajectory and long-term market potential of artisanal goat cheese products in the global marketplace.
Expansion of Foodservice Industry
The foodservice industry's growth drives the global goat cheese market as restaurants, cafes, hotels, and catering services incorporate goat cheese into their menus to address evolving consumer preferences. The market expansion is attributed to increasing consumer demand for prepared food items and dining experiences, with goat cheese recognized for its versatility, distinct flavor profile, and nutritional benefits. With the rising trend of dining out and consumption of ready-to-eat meals due to busy lifestyles, foodservice operators integrate goat cheese across various menu items, including salads, pizzas, sandwiches, appetizers, and desserts. Dairy companies are strategically developing products for the foodservice segment. For instance, in May 2024, Belle Chevre Inc. launched two new goat cheese products: 1.5-oz portion cups of spreadable goat cheese in Original, Honey, and Fig flavors, and a 2.3-lb tub of flavored cheese cubes marinated in extra virgin olive oil under the CHEVOO brand. These product developments indicate the market's responsiveness to foodservice requirements and its potential for continued growth.
Surge in Organic and Grass-Fed Goat Cheese Demand
The global goat cheese market demonstrates increasing consumer demand for organic and grass-fed products, driven by sustainability awareness and clean-label preferences. Producers are modifying their production methods and obtaining certifications to support premium pricing. For example, Redwood Hill Farm sources milk from Certified Humane family farms that follow strict animal welfare and sustainable farming standards. According to Mondelēz International's 2023 State of Snacking: Future Trends report, 63% of consumers purchase snacks that minimize environmental impact through carbon offsets, local sourcing, and sustainable supply chains [2]Source: Mondelēz International, Inc., "State of Snacking: Future Trends 2023", mondelezinternational.com. This environmental consideration corresponds with the operational efficiency of goat cheese production. Goats consume 50% less water than cattle and generate reduced methane emissions, positioning goat cheese as a viable option for environmentally conscious consumers. As purchasing patterns demonstrate increased environmental considerations, goat cheese manufacturers can capitalize on this market opportunity through sustainable production methods. These sustainability advantages resonate with environmentally conscious consumers. The grass-fed segment demonstrates substantial growth, with consumers associating improved taste and nutritional value with pasture-raised production methods, indicating a sustained shift toward premium, environmentally conscious goat cheese products in the global market.
Restraints Impact Analysis
Restraint | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
---|---|---|---|
Volatile farm-gate goat milk prices globally | -0.8% | Global, particularly acute in Europe and North America | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
High import tariffs on dairy in emerging markets | -0.6% | Emerging markets, especially India, China, Brazil | Medium term (2-4 years) |
Shelf-life constraints for fresh goat cheese in hot climates | -0.4% | Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America | Medium term (2-4 years) |
Competition from plant-based cheese analogues | -0.3% | North America and Europe, expanding globally | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
Source: Mordor Intelligence
Volatile Farm-gate Goat Milk Prices globally
A significant restraint in the global goat cheese market stems from price volatility in goat milk procurement, which creates substantial margin pressure and supply chain uncertainty, particularly affecting smaller producers with limited hedging capabilities. According to Statistics Norway, the number of dairy goats in Norway decreased in 2024, with 32,374 dairy goats compared to 32,571 in 2023, exemplifying the supply constraints in major production regions. This supply-demand imbalance compels cheese manufacturers to either increase imports or reduce production volumes, disrupting established market relationships and pricing strategies. The market restraint is further intensified by goat farming's inherent seasonality and weather sensitivity, combined with limited producer scale that prevents effective risk management through forward contracting or vertical integration. As a result, artisanal producers, who represent a significant segment of the market, experience substantial operational constraints due to their limited financial resources to manage price risk through derivatives or long-term supply agreements, ultimately impacting the overall market growth potential.
High Import Tariffs on Dairy in Emerging markets
The global goat cheese market encounters a substantial challenge from the rapid expansion of plant-based cheese alternatives. This competitive pressure is most pronounced in developed markets, where consumer preferences have shifted significantly toward vegan and flexitarian dietary choices. Plant-based manufacturers have successfully enhanced their product offerings through improved texture and flavor profiles while maintaining competitive price points relative to premium goat cheese products. The implementation of advanced plant protein formulations and sophisticated fermentation technologies has enabled these manufacturers to achieve closer replication of traditional cheese characteristics. This technological progression has systematically diminished the distinctive taste and texture advantages that historically differentiated dairy cheese markets, thereby presenting a sustained impediment to the growth and market positioning of the goat cheese industry.
Segment Analysis
By Product Type: Chèvre Dominance Faces Mozzarella Challenge
Chèvre cheese maintains a substantial 52.38% market share in 2024, establishing its position as the primary goat cheese product internationally. Its market leadership is attributed to extensive applications in international cuisine and foodservice sectors, supported by scalable production methodologies across manufacturing facilities worldwide. The mozzarella segment demonstrates significant expansion potential with an 8.52% CAGR through 2030, driven by international pizza chain proliferation and increasing adoption of Mediterranean cuisine across global markets. This market evolution indicates a substantial transformation in goat cheese consumption patterns beyond traditional formats.
Cheddar and ricotta segments exhibit consistent growth trajectories, capitalizing on their established presence in global culinary applications where goat milk variants offer premium alternatives. The international specialty cheese category, comprising aged and flavored varieties, presents substantial opportunities for market expansion through product innovation and international distribution networks. This global market diversification aligns with international dairy industry trends, where consumers across regions increasingly demand distinguished products in premium segments.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
By Form: Logs and Rolls Lead Traditional Formats
Logs and rolls maintain market dominance with a 38.53% share in 2024, as these formats align with traditional goat cheese presentation methods and meet stringent portion control requirements across retail and foodservice sectors worldwide. The format's international dominance is attributed to its superior visual presentation and standardized portioning capabilities, enabling consistent pricing and display across diverse retail channels. Artisanal producers across regions prefer this format as it effectively demonstrates traditional crafting methods and premium quality positioning in the global marketplace.
Crumbles are experiencing the highest growth rate at 5.90% CAGR through 2030 in the international market, driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient, ready-to-use options in salads, pizzas, and culinary applications. Blocks and wheels formats primarily serve industrial and foodservice segments where volume efficiency and longer shelf life are prioritized over presentation. These formats demonstrate substantial growth potential in emerging markets where bulk packaging reduces costs and enables wider distribution networks. While slices and shreds constitute the smallest segment globally, they showcase significant advancement opportunities through innovative packaging technologies that preserve product quality and extend shelf life.
By Packaging Format: Innovation Drives Shelf-Life Extension
Vacuum-sealed pouches hold a 42.88% market share in 2024, driven by their ability to extend shelf life and protect against contamination, enabling wider geographic distribution. These pouches maintain product integrity during transportation and storage while offering clear product visibility for premium positioning. The format supports portion control and freshness preservation, addressing the needs of health-conscious consumers and small households. Moreover, vacuum packaging reduces preservative requirements, aligning with consumer demand for clean-label products.
MAP tubs and cups are projected to grow at 7.19% CAGR through 2030. This growth trajectory is supported by continuous advancements in barrier materials, gas composition optimization, and manufacturing processes that collectively enhance product preservation while maintaining organoleptic properties and regulatory compliance. Traditional foil-wrapped logs experience market pressure from advanced packaging alternatives offering superior barrier properties and consumer convenience features. The other category encompasses emerging packaging innovations, including bio-based materials, recyclable solutions, and integrated smart monitoring systems that enhance product safety and consumer confidence through real-time freshness indicators and environmental condition tracking.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
By Distribution Channel: Digital Disruption Challenges Traditional Retail
The goat cheese market distribution is predominantly controlled by supermarkets/hypermarkets, commanding a substantial 57.21% market share in 2024. These retail establishments maintain their market leadership through sophisticated cold chain infrastructure, strategic store locations, and consistent consumer footfall patterns. Their market dominance is further strengthened by extensive product portfolios, economies of scale in procurement, and substantial investment in temperature-controlled display infrastructure. The increasing consumer preference for premium dairy products, rising health consciousness, and growing demand for artisanal cheese varieties contribute to their sustained growth.
Online retail demonstrates remarkable growth potential with an 8.44% CAGR through 2030, driven by technological advancements in cold chain logistics, improved last-mile delivery capabilities, and shifting consumer purchasing behaviors. This channel's expansion is further supported by the integration of artificial intelligence for personalized recommendations, blockchain technology for supply chain transparency, and sophisticated inventory management systems. Specialty cheese stores maintain their distinct market position through comprehensive product knowledge, curated selections, and specialized storage facilities. Convenience stores operate within the constraints of limited refrigeration infrastructure and rapid inventory turnover requirements, which inherently restrict their ability to maintain extensive goat cheese selections, despite serving immediate consumption needs.
Geography Analysis
Europe maintains a 38.42% market share in 2024, underpinned by established goat cheese production methodologies and sophisticated consumer preferences for artisanal dairy products. The region's competitive position is reinforced through stringent protected designation systems, standardized production protocols, and comprehensive distribution networks. Primary production regions, including Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands, maintain substantial output volumes while preserving distinct regional variants that generate premium market valuations through verified authenticity and geographical indications.
Asia-Pacific is growing at a 6.20% CAGR through 2030, driven by middle-class expansion and increased consumption of Western dairy products due to urbanization. China imported USD 895 million of cheese in 2024, according to The Observatory of Economic Complexity, with Tier-1 supermarkets/hypermarkets allocating more shelf space to specialty cheeses, including goat cheese [3]Source: The Observatory Economic Complexity (OEC), “Cheese in China”, oec.world. In India, the expanding middle class and higher lactose intolerance rates present opportunities for goat cheese as a dairy alternative.
North America shows consistent growth through health-conscious consumer preferences and artisanal food market expansion, particularly in the United States' specialty cheese segment. The region's developed cold chain infrastructure and retail networks support premium product distribution, while foodservice recovery increases specialty ingredient demand. South America displays growth potential, especially in Brazil and Argentina, where European immigration has established cheese consumption patterns, though economic and currency instability affect market predictability. The Middle East and Africa represent developing markets where climate challenges necessitate advanced packaging, while expatriate communities and tourism create demand for premium imports.

Competitive Landscape
The global goat cheese market demonstrates moderate fragmentation, characterized by intense competition between established dairy conglomerates and specialized artisanal producers. Market competitiveness is driven by increasing consumer demand for specialty dairy products and growing health consciousness. Key market players include Saputo Inc., Lactalis Group, Savencia Fromage & Dairy, and Land O'Lakes Inc., which maintain their positions through extensive distribution networks and product diversification.
Companies are investing in advanced technology solutions to enhance their competitive advantage. For instance, Amalthea Group utilizes AI analytics to optimize production processes and reduce waste, demonstrating the industry's shift toward digital transformation. The market is experiencing significant vertical integration and supply chain optimization, with companies securing goat milk supplies through strategic partnerships, long-term contracts, or direct farm ownership. These measures help manage input cost volatility, maintain quality standards, and ensure consistent supply in response to growing market demand.
Emerging markets present substantial growth opportunities due to limited local production capacity and high import dependency. The expansion potential is further supported by rising disposable incomes, changing dietary preferences, and increasing awareness of goat cheese products. Technological advancements in packaging solutions have addressed traditional shelf-life constraints, enabling companies to expand their geographical presence and market reach.
Goat Cheese Industry Leaders
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Saputo Inc.
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Lactalis Group
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Savencia Fromage & Dairy
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Land O’Lakes Inc.
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Laura Chenel’s Chevre Inc.
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Recent Industry Developments
- June 2025: Cypress Grove has introduced Olive & Herb, a new goat cheese product incorporating green olives and rosemary. The company will exhibit this fresh goat cheese formulation at the Summer Fancy Food Show in New York at Booth #764. The product combines savory components suitable for charcuterie assortments and snack applications.
- November 2024: Saputo's Montchevre launched two product variants: Cold Brew & Donuts goat cheese, featuring sweet and creamy characteristics for breakfast applications and charcuterie boards, and Mild Gouda-Style goat milk cheese, delivering a tangy flavor profile for multiple food applications.
- September 2024: Forever Cheese modified the packaging design of its highest-revenue product, The Drunken Goat. The updated label incorporates an illustration of a Murciana goat, signifying the milk source, and indicates the red Monastrell wine utilized in the production process.
- June 2023: Saputo USA's Montchevre, the market leader in U.S. goat cheese, introduced its "Make Mischief with Montchevre" campaign. The initiative included advertisements featuring the company's product innovations. The brand implemented new packaging and released Montchevre Duos, a dual-flavored goat cheese product line, in fall 2023. The product variants included Sweet Hot Peppers + Garlic & Herbs and Blueberry + Lemonade combinations.
Global Goat Cheese Market Report Scope
Goat cheese is a kind of cheese that is made from goat milk. Goat cheese is frequently used in salads or as a spread because of its acidic and salty flavor.
The goat cheese market is segmented by type, form, distribution channel, packaging format, and geography. Based on type market is segmented into mozzarella cheese, chèvre cheese, cheddar cheese, ricotta cheese, and others. Based on form, the market is segmented into crumbles, logs & rolls, blocks/wheels, and slices & shreds. Based on the distribution channel market is segmented into on-trade and off-trade. The off-trade channels are further segmented into supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, specialty cheese stores, and online retail stores. Based on packaging format, the market is segmented into vacuum-sealed pouches, map tubs & cups, foil-wrapped logs, and bulk wheels & crates. Based on geography, the market is divided into North America, South America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East, and Africa. The market sizing has been done in value terms in USD for all the abovementioned segments.
By Type | Mozzarella Cheese | ||
Chèvre Cheese | |||
Cheddar Cheese | |||
Ricotta Cheese | |||
Others | |||
By Form | Crumbles | ||
Logs and Rolls | |||
Blocks/Wheels | |||
Slices and Shreds | |||
By Packaging Format | Vacuum-Sealed Pouches | ||
MAP Tubs and Cups | |||
Foil-Wrapped Logs | |||
Others | |||
By Distribution Channel | On-Trade | ||
Off-Trade | Supermarkets/Hypermarkets | ||
Convenience Stores | |||
Specialty Cheese Stores | |||
Online Retail | |||
Other Distribution Channels | |||
By Geography | North America | United States | |
Canada | |||
Mexico | |||
Rest of North America | |||
Europe | Germany | ||
United Kingdom | |||
Italy | |||
France | |||
Spain | |||
Netherlands | |||
Poland | |||
Belgium | |||
Sweden | |||
Rest of Europe | |||
Asia-Pacific | China | ||
India | |||
Japan | |||
Australia | |||
Indonesia | |||
South Korea | |||
Thailand | |||
Singapore | |||
Rest of Asia-Pacific | |||
South America | Brazil | ||
Argentina | |||
Colombia | |||
Chile | |||
Peru | |||
Rest of South America | |||
Middle East and Africa | South Africa | ||
Saudi Arabia | |||
United Arab Emirates | |||
Nigeria | |||
Egypt | |||
Morocco | |||
Turkey | |||
Rest of Middle East and Africa |
Mozzarella Cheese |
Chèvre Cheese |
Cheddar Cheese |
Ricotta Cheese |
Others |
Crumbles |
Logs and Rolls |
Blocks/Wheels |
Slices and Shreds |
Vacuum-Sealed Pouches |
MAP Tubs and Cups |
Foil-Wrapped Logs |
Others |
On-Trade | |
Off-Trade | Supermarkets/Hypermarkets |
Convenience Stores | |
Specialty Cheese Stores | |
Online Retail | |
Other Distribution Channels |
North America | United States |
Canada | |
Mexico | |
Rest of North America | |
Europe | Germany |
United Kingdom | |
Italy | |
France | |
Spain | |
Netherlands | |
Poland | |
Belgium | |
Sweden | |
Rest of Europe | |
Asia-Pacific | China |
India | |
Japan | |
Australia | |
Indonesia | |
South Korea | |
Thailand | |
Singapore | |
Rest of Asia-Pacific | |
South America | Brazil |
Argentina | |
Colombia | |
Chile | |
Peru | |
Rest of South America | |
Middle East and Africa | South Africa |
Saudi Arabia | |
United Arab Emirates | |
Nigeria | |
Egypt | |
Morocco | |
Turkey | |
Rest of Middle East and Africa |
Key Questions Answered in the Report
What is the current size of the goat cheese market?
The goat cheese market is worth USD 8.21 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 10.50 billion by 2030.
Which region leads goat cheese sales?
Europe holds the leading 38.42% share, supported by its long-standing cheese heritage and protected designation systems.
Which goat cheese type is growing the fastest?
Goat mozzarella cheese is forecast to expand at an 8.52% CAGR through 2030 as global pizza consumption rises.
Why is online retail important for goat cheese?
Online platforms offer detailed product stories and convenient delivery, helping the channel grow at 8.44% CAGR faster than any brick-and-mortar alternative.
Page last updated on: July 4, 2025