Cheese And The Usa: A Historical Import Relationship

Cheese is a staple in the diets and dishes of many Americans, and the United States is one of the top ten cheese exporters in the world. However, the country also imports a significant amount of cheese, with imported cheese being a common feature of many Americans' diets. In 2020, the US imported about $1.26 billion worth of cheese and cheese products, with the most consumed types of cheese also being the most frequently imported, such as Cheddar. In 2022, the US imported $1.57 billion worth of cheese, making it the eighth largest importer of cheese in the world. The primary sources of these imports were Italy, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Spain.

The US imported $1.57 billion worth of cheese in 2022

The United States has a long history of cheese import, with a significant rise in recent years, as reflected in the latest figures. In 2022, the US imported a substantial $1.57 billion worth of cheese, highlighting an enduring appetite for foreign cheeses and a thriving market. This figure represents a considerable volume of cheese entering the country, contributing to the diverse and expansive US cheese industry.

The US cheese market is unique, with a complex blend of domestic production and international imports. While the US produces a vast array of cheeses domestically, it also relies on imports to satisfy the diverse tastes and demands of its consumers. The imported cheese sector plays a crucial role in meeting these demands, offering a wide range of varieties, flavors, and textures that complement the domestic offerings.

The $1.57 billion worth of cheese imported in 2022 signifies a robust and dynamic market. This figure includes a diverse range of cheeses from various countries, each bringing its unique characteristics and traditions to the US market. From classic European cheeses like Cheddar, Swiss, and Gouda to more specialized varieties like Italian Parmigiano-Reggiano and French Camembert, the import market caters to a broad spectrum of consumer preferences.

This substantial import value also underscores the critical role of trade agreements and partnerships in the cheese industry. The US has established strong trade relations with cheese-producing countries worldwide, facilitating the smooth flow of these dairy products into the country. These agreements ensure a consistent supply of high-quality, specialized cheeses that enhance the overall US cheese market and provide consumers with unparalleled variety.

The US is one of the top ten cheese importers

The United States is one of the top ten cheese exporters, but it is also one of the top ten importers of cheese. In 2020, the US imported about $1.26 billion worth of cheese and cheese products, with cheddar being the most frequently imported. The US also has a thriving dairy industry, and its cheese is a mainstay in the import markets of Mexico, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and Canada. In 2022, US cheese accounted for nearly one-fifth of the cheese imported by Canada and Japan by value, and nearly one-fourth of the cheese imported by Australia. More than 43% of the cheese shipped to South Korea originated from the US, and US cheese dominates the import market in Mexico, with 87% of Mexico's cheese imports coming from the US in 2022.

The US imports cheese from various countries, including Italy, Mexico, South America, India, Australia, Argentina, and the Middle East. Popular imported Italian cheeses include Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Other imported cheeses include Paneer from India and Southeast Asia, Cotija from Mexico, Nabulsi from the Middle East, Anthill Cheese from Australia, and Sardo from Argentina.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has strict regulations on importing cheese, and all food imported into the US must meet FDA health and safety standards. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) also issues permits for some cheese products, depending on the country of origin. Common requirements for importing cheese into the US include obtaining a USDA APHIS Veterinary Services Import Permit, filing a Prior Notice with the FDA, obtaining a Country of Origin Certificate, and providing a local government record of the facility where the ingredients were processed.

Despite being a top exporter, the US continues to import significant amounts of cheese, contributing to the diversity of cheese options available to consumers in the country.

Strict regulations are in place for importing cheese into the US

The United States imposes strict regulations on importing cheese. Both the ingredients and the methods by which cheese is processed determine whether it is legal for import. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforces these regulations, which all imported food, including cheese, must meet.

The FDA has banned the import of soft or liquid cheese made from raw cow's milk or other milk-producing animal into the US. The administration has data to support the potential harm caused to individuals by consuming products made with raw milk products. Other cheeses deemed unfit for consumption in the US are those aged or fermented with certain types of bacteria or insects. For example, Casu Marzu, one of the most famously illegal cheeses, is aged to encourage maggot infestation.

The US also enforces tariff-rate quotas on a number of cheeses, limiting the import quantities based on type and nation of origin.

To import cheese into the US, you will need the following:

• USDA APHIS Veterinary Services Import Permit
• Filing of Prior Notice with the FDA
• Country of Origin Certificate
• Local government record of the facility where ingredients were processed
• Customs Bond

If you plan on importing cheese regularly, or more than four times a year, you should consider obtaining a dairy import license. This is managed by the USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) and allows importers to bring in certain tariff-rate quota (TRQ) products at a lower rate.

The US's top cheese imports come from Italy, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Spain

While the exact length of time that the US has been importing cheese for is unclear, it is known that cheese is a staple in the American diet, with the country being one of the top ten cheese exporters in the world. In 2023, the US imported $1.8 billion worth of cheese, making it the fifth-largest importer globally.

The US imports cheese from a variety of countries, with the top five sources being Italy, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Spain. These countries are renowned for their traditional cheese offerings, which have gained popularity in the US.

Italian cheeses have a prominent place in the US market, with specialties such as Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, and Parmigiano Reggiano, known as the "King of Cheeses". Italian cheeses are characterized by their use of additive-free, traditional methods and ingredients, such as goat's and free-range cow's milk.

French cheeses, such as Camembert and Brie, have also become staples in American households and restaurants. Brie, in particular, is known for its soft, creamy texture and mild, buttery flavour, making it a versatile choice for snacks and meals.

The Netherlands is another major source of cheese imports for the US, with Gouda being one of the most commonly imported varieties. Gouda is a semi-hard to hard cheese with a rich, creamy texture and a mildly sweet and nutty flavour. It is often aged for several months to enhance its flavour and texture.

Switzerland is known for its Swiss cheese, which is characterised by its distinctive eyes or holes. While the origin of these holes was a mystery for a long time, it is now known that they are caused by bacteria that produce carbon dioxide bubbles during the aging process. Swiss cheese has a mild, slightly nutty flavour and a creamy texture, making it a popular choice for sandwiches and melted dishes.

Finally, Spain produces a variety of cheeses, such as Manchego, a sheep's milk cheese with a nutty, buttery flavour, and Cabrales, a strong, blue cheese made from a mix of cow's, goat's, and sheep's milk. These Spanish cheeses offer unique flavours and textures that appeal to American consumers.

In summary, while the US produces and exports significant amounts of cheese, it also relies on imports from countries like Italy, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Spain to satisfy its diverse cheese market and the evolving tastes of American consumers.

The US's most consumed types of cheese are also the most frequently imported

The United States is a major cheese producer and consumer. In 2022, the US exported more than 450,000 metric tons of cheese, valued at approximately $2.3 billion. Despite this, the US also imports a lot of cheese. In 2021, the US imported $1.57 billion worth of cheese, making it the seventh-largest cheese importer globally.

The US's third most consumed cheese is Swiss cheese, followed by American-style cheese, which includes cheddar. Hispanic cheese is also one of the most consumed varieties in the US. As the US has a large Hispanic population, it is perhaps unsurprising that Mexican cheeses, such as Queso Fresco, Queso Blanco, Cotija, and Oaxaca, are in high demand. These varieties are used in classic Mexican dishes like enchiladas and tacos.

European cheeses have also secured a permanent place in American households and restaurants. In particular, Italian cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, and mozzarella are very popular. French cheeses like Camembert, and Italian cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano, Gouda, and Brie are also imported in large quantities.

Cheese consumption in the US has been rising, with consumers embracing a broader range of cheese styles and flavours. This shift can be attributed to the influence of various cultural cuisines and an increasing appreciation for artisanal and gourmet cheeses.

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