Cheese Snacks Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Mozzarella, Parmesan, Cheddar), By Sales Channel (Supermarkets And Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online, Others), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Cheese Snacks Market Size & Trends

The global cheese snacks market size was estimated at USD 76.97 billion in 2024 and is expected to register a CAGR of 5.4% from 2025 to 2030. The evolving lifestyles of urban consumers are a key factor driving the growth of the market. Manufacturers are responding to this demand by expanding their brands, relocating operations, and reinforcing their brand presence, which contributes to market growth. Additionally, shifting tastes and increasing westernization are fueling the global consumption of cheese snacks. However, health concerns related to processed foods and the growing number of calorie-conscious individuals may limit market expansion. Despite this, changing consumer preferences in urban areas are expected to remain a major growth drive over the forecast period.

Cheese has become a staple in snacks due to its ability to add a salty flavor to otherwise bland foods. Consumers prefer cheese snacks for their nutritional benefits and their easy availability in the market. Parmigiana, mozzarella, and cheddar are among the main types of cheese used in these snacks. As more brands enter emerging markets, the popularity of cheese snacks continues to rise. This growing demand for Western foods in these regions is expected to drive market growth.

To boost demand in the cheese snacks industry, there is a need to expand the number of store outlets. Snack producers are addressing the rising demand by offering a wider variety of healthier cheese snacks. For instance, in August 2023, Kerrygold, a global brand under Ornua, launched new Kerrygold Cheese Snacks, which are ready-to-eat cheese sticks available in a convenient and snackable format. Now available on store shelves across the U.S., these snacks come in packs of eight sticks, are gluten-free, and provide a good source of protein, making them ideal for a quick snack, a lunchbox addition for kids, or a tasty option on a cheese board. These product launches have helped the company attract more customers. Key players are already seeing significant sales and profit margins by concentrating on the cheese snacks market. As snacks increasingly replace full meals, they are effectively meeting the hunger needs of children and teenagers. Additionally, the recent introduction of premium cheese as a side dish has generated positive momentum for these products in the market.

Type Insights

Mozzarella cheese snacks are projected to hold a 36.63% market share in the global market for cheese snacks by 2024. This growth is driven by the rising demand for mozzarella in the food sector, where it is used in a variety of products, as well as the increasing preference for high-protein cheeses like mozzarella. Its versatility and nutritional value make mozzarella a popular choice, especially in Italian and American snacks due to its easy melting and appealing flavor. According to Kostyo, mozzarella’s unique taste and qualities make it an exciting ingredient for a wide range of snacks.

Cheddar cheese snacks are expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2025 to 2030. Incorporating cheddar cheese is a simple way to add a creamy, cheesy flavor to snacks, and its various health benefits make it a popular choice. According to research from Tetra Pak, cheddar cheese snacks are among the most globally beloved, frequently ranking high in favorite cheese snack surveys. Although recently surpassed by mozzarella in consumption, cheddar remains a widely favored option for snacking.

Sales Channel Insights

In 2024, the sales of cheese snacks through supermarkets and hypermarkets accounted for a market share of 70.81% share of the market and are expected to maintain this position throughout the forecast period. These outlets are popular among consumers due to their accessibility and frequent promotions and discounts. Globally, supermarkets play a significant role in influencing nutritional habits. The organized display of snack foods in these stores contributes to high levels of consumption. The rapid expansion of supermarkets in developing countries is also impacting consumer food choices, potentially influencing nutritional outcomes.

Sales of cheese snacks through online retail channels are projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2025 to 2030. Mondelez has discovered that nearly half of snack consumers are now purchasing online. While still relatively small, the online platform is one of the fastest-growing channels for snack purchases. The rise in internet and smartphone users, particularly in developed countries, is driving growth in this segment. Additionally, e-commerce platforms, including social media and Google Ads, play a significant role in influencing consumer choices. Customers are increasingly trusting and confident in e-wallets and online shopping; thus, the adoption of contactless payments surged during the pandemic and is expected to remain essential.

Regional Insights

The North America cheese snacks market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2025 to 2030. Snacks have become a vital component of many individuals' diets across North America, and when chosen wisely, they can help meet daily nutritional needs. The significant consumption of extruded products throughout the day is a major factor contributing to the growth of the cheese snacks market in the region. Additionally, the increasing demand for convenience, shifting household sizes, and growing consumer interest in unique snack flavors are key drivers of market expansion in the U.S.

Asia Pacific Cheese Snacks Market Trends

In 2024, the Asia Pacific cheese snacks market accounted for a market share of 39.84%. As consumers become increasingly health-conscious and more aware of the types of food and diets they should follow, the demand for healthy snacks is rapidly rising in this area. The frequency of consumption occasions has significantly increased, with the most substantial growth occurring in Asia Pacific. Consumers in this region are opting for quicker food preparation options, including packaged snacks. As the region develops with modern retail outlets, there is a noticeable shift from consuming unpackaged snacks at home or purchasing traditional street food from vendors like food trucks to buying packaged snacks.

Europe Cheese Snacks Market Trends

The Europe cheese snacks market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2025 to 2030. European consumers are increasingly health-conscious, leading to a growing demand for healthier snack options. Cheese snacks that are lower in calories, made with natural ingredients, or fortified with additional nutrients are becoming more popular. The trend of "snackification" where consumers prefer snacking over traditional meals is prevalent in Europe. This shift is driving the demand for convenient, on-the-go cheese snacks that can be easily consumed throughout the day.

Latin America Cheese Snacks Market Trends

The Latin America cheese snacks market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.6% from 2025 to 2030. There is a trend towards premium cheese snacks, with consumers willing to pay more for high-quality, artisanal, or gourmet products. This premium segment is seeing significant growth, driven by a demand for superior taste and craftsmanship.

Key Cheese Snacks Company Insights

To stay competitive in the market, players are concentrating on increasing the taste along with the quality of the products to attract health-conscious consumers as well.

In March 2024, Sargento expanded its refrigerated snack category by launching three new products within its natural cheese lineup. The latest offerings include Sargento Fun! Balanced Breaks, along with Sargento Fiesta Pepper and Smokehouse String Cheese Snacks.

In April 2022, Bel Brands USA introduced Babybel, a mozzarella-style plant-based cheese snack. This new snack was crafted to taste like mozzarella cheese and offers a good source of calcium and B12. This product was considered iconic, with unique packaging to be identified as a plant-based product.

In December 2019, PopCorners Snacks maker BFY Brands got acquired by PepsiCo aimed at expanding its product base and production capacity. This acquisition facilitated the company's business expansion in the snacks category, as BFY offers a variety of products with different tastes and ingredients.

Cheese Snacks Market Report Scope

Global Cheese Snacks Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional & country levels and provides an analysis on the latest trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segment from 2018 to 2030. For the purpose of this study, Grand View Research has segmented the cheese snacks market on the basis of type, sales channel, and region.

• Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 2018 - 2030)

  • Mozzarella

  • Parmesan

  • Cheddar

  • Feta

  • Others

• Sales Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 2018 - 2030)

  • Supermarkets and Hypermarkets

  • Convenience Stores

  • Online

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Netherland

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • Japan

    • India

    • Australia

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East & Africa

    • South Africa

    • UAE