In this article, we are going to look at the 5 Most Consumed Cheeses in America. If you want to read more about the most consumed cheeses in America and check out our detailed analysis of the cheese industry, you can go to 15 Most Consumed Cheeses in America.
5. Hispanic Cheese
Per capita consumption in the US in 2021: 0.97 pounds
Percentage score in YouGov’s survey in 2021: N/A
Hispanic cheeses, while originating from Mexico, are now produced in America as well and available in US grocery markets. Queso Fresco, Asadero, Manchego, Oaxaca, and Cotija are all some common types of Hispanic cheese.
Hispanic cheese crumbles easily and does not melt, and is often used as a topping or filling in dishes like tacos, enchiladas, carnitas, burritos, and salads. According to the USDA, per capita consumption of Hispanic cheese in the US was 0.96 pounds in 2020, but this increased to 0.97 pounds in 2021.
4. Swiss Cheese
Per capita consumption in the US in 2021: 1.04 pounds
Percentage score in YouGov’s survey in 2021: 8%
Swiss cheese, as the name suggests, originates from Switzerland. It is originally known as Emmental in Switzerland and Swiss cheese in America is the American version of Emmental. Swiss cheese stands out because of its unique appearance as it has tiny holes in its whole block and has a shiny, pale yellow color.
The overall consumption of Swiss cheese per capita in the US in 2020 was 1.05 pounds but this figure slightly decreased to reach 1.04 pounds in 2021. Swiss cheese was also the 4th highest voted in YouGov’s survey, with 8% people choosing it as their favorite cheese.
3. Cream and Neufchatel Cheese
Per capita consumption in the US in 2021: 2.86 pounds
Percentage score in YouGov’s survey in 2021: N/A
Cream and Neufchatel cheese are very similar in flavor. While the manufacturing procedures are similar for Cream and Neufchatel cheese, Cream cheese is made with 35% milk fat and Neufchatel cheese contains only 23% fat. The original French version of Neufchatel has a dry and grainy texture. However, the American version of Neufchatel has a high moisture content and acts as an alternative to cream cheese.
Cream and Neufchatel cheese are commonly used as a topping for crackers, bagels, and toast while also being an excellent addition in many dessert recipes such as cakes and frostings. According to the data collected by the United States Department of Agriculture, Cream and Neufchatel’s total consumption per capita in the US was 2.80 pounds in 2020 but increased to 2.86 pounds in 2021.
2. Cheddar Cheese
Per capita consumption in the US in 2021: 11.41 pounds
Percentage score in YouGov’s survey in 2021: 19%
The state of Wisconsin produces the largest amount of cheddar cheese in America. It is found in a number of varieties such as mild, medium, sharp, and extra sharp. Famous for its rich, fine and flavorful taste, this cheese is a great addition to sandwiches and burgers as well as many other dishes since it melts very easily.
Cheddar’s consumption per capita in the US has been recorded at 11.41 pounds as of 2021. Previously in 2020, its consumption per capita according to the USDA was recorded at only 11.18 pounds. Moreover, cheddar was the clear winner in YouGov’s survey of 8815 Americans with 19% of the people choosing Cheddar as their favorite.
1. Mozzarella Cheese
Per capita consumption in the US in 2021: 12.28 pounds
Percentage score in YouGov’s survey in 2021: 9%
Originating from southern Italy, Mozzarella cheese is most commonly made from buffalo’s milk, although it is also available in other variants. Fresh Mozzarella is usually white but turns yellowish when it is seasoned, depending on the animal’s diet. It is normally soft and melts easily in the oven. Mozzarella cheese can be used for cooked dishes or for fresh dishes like salads. It is also a common substitute for Parmesan on pasta while also being a popular cheese for snacking on with other dishes like crackers and mashed potatoes.
Mozzarella consumption per capita in the US has been as high as 12.28 pounds according to the USDA as of 2021. The figure was not so different in 2020, when the consumption per capita for this cheese in the US was 12.26 pounds. Mozzarella was also ranked among the favorites, with about 9% of the people voting for Mozzarella cheese as their favorite, in YouGov’s survey of more than 8800 US adults.
You can also take a look at 15 Most Popular Deli Meats in the US and 15 Best Side Hustles From Home.
