Bushra Griffith
Cheese is a beloved food for many people around the world. It is a highly consumed food that provides a rich source of energy and nutrients. While specific preferences vary, with some enjoying the taste, texture, and versatility of cheese, others dislike it due to its smell or high-calorie content. According to surveys, 63% of Americans like cheese, and it is so commonly consumed that not liking it is considered unusual. Global cheese consumption is projected to reach a record high, with Americans searching for cheese online more than any other nation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Percentage of Americans who like cheese | 63% |
| Percentage of Americans who eat cheddar cheese | 96% |
| Global cheese consumption in 2024 | 21.6 million metric tons |
| Global cheese consumption increase compared to 5 years ago | 5.7% |
| Percentage of adults who consume cheese on any given day | 68% |
| Average daily intake of cheese | 34 grams |
| Percentage of total daily energy intake that cheese accounts for | 7% |
| Percentage of protein intake that cheese accounts for | 12% |
| Percentage of total fat intake that cheese accounts for | 13% |
| Percentage of saturated fat intake that cheese accounts for | 23% |
| Percentage of calcium intake that cheese accounts for | 33% |
| Percentage of US males willing to adopt plant-based cheese | 73% |
| Percentage of females willing to adopt plant-based cheese | 63% |
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What You'll Learn
A survey found that 63% of Americans like cheese
It is no secret that cheese is a beloved food for many. In fact, a survey found that 63% of Americans like cheese. This is reflected in the fact that the United States is the country that searches for the term "cheese" the most on Google, with an average of 6.6 searches per person per month.
The survey also found that while 63% of Americans like cheese, an even higher 76% like apples. Interestingly, this means that there is a small group of Americans who like neither cheese nor apples, as well as a group that likes both.
Cheese is a highly consumed food in the US, providing a rich source of energy and many nutrients. It is often consumed as an ingredient in foods such as sandwiches and pizza, making it challenging to assess dietary intake accurately. However, it is estimated that cheese accounts for approximately half of the per capita availability of dairy in the US.
Market research has indicated that Americans tend to prefer their own cheese varieties, such as cheddar, over imported ones. This is supported by the fact that 96% of Americans consume cheddar cheese, while many have not heard of cheeses like paneer and halloumi.
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Non-Hispanic Asian adults are less likely to consume cheese than other ethnicities
Cheese is a popular food product, with global consumption projected to reach a record high of 21.6 million metric tons in 2024. It is a versatile food, consumed alone, as an ingredient, or as part of mixed dishes. In the US, cheese accounts for roughly half of the per capita availability of dairy.
However, cheese consumption patterns vary across different populations. In the US, Non-Hispanic Asian adults are less likely to consume cheese than other ethnicities. This difference is observed across all adults, regardless of gender. Several factors may contribute to this disparity:
Cultural and Historical Factors
In Chinese culture, for instance, cheese consumption was historically limited to nomadic tribes living on the fringes of society. Eating cheese was associated with an unsavory lifestyle, and this connotation stuck for a long time. Additionally, the treatment of cows as work animals, rather than dairy sources, may have contributed to the lack of dairy in Chinese cuisine.
Lactose Intolerance
East Asians are drastically more likely to be lactose intolerant than Westerners. This intolerance can be attributed to a lack of exposure to cheese and dairy products. As humans are predisposed to be lactose intolerant, centuries of consuming cheese have allowed Westerners' bodies to adapt and become tolerant.
Dietary Preferences and Influences
Asian Americans have different dietary preferences and sources of nutrients compared to other ethnicities. Sodium density is higher in Asian Americans' diets, with sources including soups, rice, and yeast breads, rather than cheese, which is a top source of sodium for other ethnicities. Additionally, Asian Americans are less likely to add salt at the table but use salt frequently in food preparation.
Taste and Variety
The type of cheese that appeals to Asian tastes may differ from typical American cheeses. They may prefer pungent or highly processed cheeses, which are often found in American fast-food chains.
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Taste is a top reason why people eat cheese
The popularity of cheese can be attributed to its versatility and wide range of flavours, textures, and consistencies. There are thousands of varieties of cheese, and consumers are increasingly drawn to the convenience of cheese in various forms, such as sliced, shredded, grated, shaved, or cubed. The emergence of new varieties and unique flavours makes cheese even more appealing and attractive to consumers. For example, gouda and mozzarella have experienced significant retail growth in recent years, indicating that consumers are exploring different types of cheese.
Cheese is also a highly consumed food due to its rich energy content and nutrient profile. It is a significant source of protein, fat, saturated fat, and calcium. In the United States, cheese accounts for approximately half of the per capita availability of dairy. However, assessing cheese intake can be challenging because it is often consumed as an ingredient in dishes such as sandwiches and pizza. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017-2018, 68% of adults consume cheese, either alone or as an ingredient, on any given day.
While the majority of cheese consumers are non-Hispanic White, Black, and Hispanic adults, a lower percentage of non-Hispanic Asian adults consume cheese compared to other racial or ethnic groups. Interestingly, cheese intake does not differ significantly by gender or income level. On average, adults consume 34 grams of cheese per day, and mixed dishes containing cheese account for 70% of total intake. Cheese is so beloved that some people would even sneak it into their meals, disregarding doctor's orders or dietary restrictions.
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People who dislike cheese are often called picky
While cheese is a beloved food for many, there are some who dislike it. People who dislike cheese are often labelled as picky, but this is an oversimplification of their dietary preferences. The aversion to cheese can stem from various factors, such as taste, texture, or even ethical considerations.
Cheese is a highly consumed food worldwide, with global consumption projected to reach a record high of 21.6 million metric tons in a year. It is especially popular in the United States, where 63% of Americans surveyed expressed their liking for cheese, and 96% reported consuming cheddar cheese. However, not everyone shares this enthusiasm. Some individuals simply do not enjoy the taste or texture of cheese, finding it unappealing or even repulsive. For example, some people associate the smell of cheese with unpleasant odours, which naturally deters them from wanting to consume it.
Another factor contributing to cheese aversion is lactose intolerance, a common condition where the body struggles to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. While there are lactose-intolerant individuals who still enjoy cheese, others may find it uncomfortable to consume due to digestive issues. Additionally, ethical concerns play a role in cheese aversion, particularly for those who are vegan or environmentally conscious. Veganism, which excludes all animal products, including dairy, has been gaining traction, with 34% of surveyed US consumers expressing a willingness to consider it.
It is important to respect the dietary choices of those who do not like cheese, rather than dismissively labelling them as picky. Their dislike may be rooted in legitimate reasons, such as taste aversion, health considerations, or ethical beliefs. Just as cheese lovers enjoy the variety of flavours and textures that cheese offers, non-cheese lovers should be understood and accepted for their dietary preferences.
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The majority (56%) of cheese consumed is bought from grocery stores
Cheese is a beloved food for many people around the world, with a variety of textures and flavours to enjoy. While some dislike it, finding it gross or too caloric, most people like at least one type of cheese. According to surveys, 63% of Americans like cheese, and 96% of Americans eat cheddar cheese. This is reflected in the fact that Americans Google search the term "cheese" more than any other nation, with an average of 6.6 searches per person per month.
Cheese is a highly consumed food, and it is often eaten as an ingredient in dishes such as sandwiches and pizza. In the US, it accounts for approximately half of the per capita availability of dairy. Research has shown that 68% of US adults consume cheese, either alone or as an ingredient, on any given day.
The availability of cheese in grocery stores has contributed to its popularity and accessibility. With cheese just an aisle away, consumers can easily incorporate it into their meals, whether as a snack, a topping, or an ingredient in a favourite recipe. The convenience and variety offered by grocery stores have likely played a significant role in shaping the cheese preferences and purchasing habits of consumers.
Furthermore, the placement and marketing strategies within grocery stores can also influence cheese sales. By positioning cheese in high-traffic areas, such as the deli section or near complementary products, stores can increase impulse purchases. Additionally, offering samples and providing informative labels can enhance consumers' knowledge and appreciation of different cheeses, potentially leading to more purchases.
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Frequently asked questions
According to a survey, 63% of Americans like cheese. Another survey found that 96% of Americans eat cheddar cheese. However, it is important to note that taste preferences are subjective and can vary across different cultures and geographical locations.
People may dislike cheese due to its texture, taste, or smell. Some individuals may also avoid cheese due to dietary restrictions, such as lactose intolerance or veganism.
Yes, cheese consumption is on the rise. According to the USDA, global cheese consumption is projected to reach a record high of 21.6 million metric tons in 2024, reflecting a 5.7% increase compared to five years ago.
