Halloumi Cheese Market

Halloumi Cheese Market Size and Share:

The global halloumi cheese market size reached USD 611.0 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 1,785.7 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate CAGR of 12.7% during 2025-2033. Europe currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 42.6% in 2024. The wide usage in cooking, increasing adoption of Mediterranean diets, rising need for protein among the vegetarian population, and premium and artisanal dairy products being more in demand by consumers, are some factors propelling the market across the region.

Halloumi cheese is a dairy product prepared with pasteurized or unpasteurized milk from cows, goats, or sheep. The product has a white color and tangy, salty and savory taste. It also has a semi-hard texture and slightly spongy appearance with a brined feel. Cheese is very fat and protein rich in content with calcium, zinc, magnesium, and vitamins A and B. It is also a good topping for salads, sandwiches, barbeques, fried and burgers; it is edible raw, grilled, or fried. The Halloumi cheese normally has stored in salted water or wrapped snugly with waxed and parchment paper or cheese wrap. They can also be gotten in the flavored ones. Such includes chili, basil and mint.

The increasing popularity of the Mediterranean diet due to health and weight management has had a major contribution to halloumi cheese popularity. In addition, the growth in demand for ready-to-eat food products among catering establishments and industrial canteens, including soups, noodles, pizza, pasta, and other food products, is highly influencing the market growth. Key market players have found new growth opportunities through the availability of low-fat and plant-based halloumi cheese products.

The global halloumi cheese market is going up, as consumers globally are gaining interest in specific and diverse dairy products and especially from health-conscious populations seeking high-protein products with less carb content. The flexibility of the product in multiple cuisines and preparation methods that include grilling and frying makes it more appealing at home and in commercial kitchens. The demand is also supplemented by a rise in food services industries, along with an expanding popularity of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food across the globe. According to the IMARC Group, the global food service market is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 3.3% during 2024-2032. It has become a favorite with the vegetarian segments of society and the growth in disposable income, which is altering consumer behavior patterns in developing nations. Additionally, innovative product offerings such as flavor-based and organic are attracting a multitude of various consumer groups and marketing efforts and exports out of leading producing countries, namely Cyprus and Greece.

The United States has emerged as a key regional market for halloumi cheese. The market, with its unique texture and remains intact even during grilling, also baking due to its unique features, gives it a liking for different dairy types of recipes whether gourmet dishes at home or through the channel of food services. Mediterranean diet popularity worldwide is also another reason toward their increasing demand for halloumi cheese. The lifestyles of vegetarians and flexitarians are contributing to an increased interest, and halloumi presents a protein-dense substitute for meat. Growing consumer awareness about high-quality and artisanal cheeses in the United States is driving sales, while imports from established producers such as Cyprus are satisfying this demand. With innovative packaging and flavored options introduced, retailers and manufacturers are catering to all preferences, allowing marketing efforts that emphasize the versatility of halloumi in appealing to a wider demographic group.

Halloumi Cheese Market Trends:

Product enhancements

One of the primary reasons driving the market is the substantial growth in the food and beverage (F&B). According to an industrial report, with an annual growth rate of 8.7%, the food and beverage industry is expected to grow to USD 8.9 Trillion by 2026. Restaurateurs and cafes are exploring several different tastes and pairings of halloumi cheese to provide fresh, interesting dishes for consumers. Relatedly, a shift in the preferences of consumers in using halloumi cheese as a substitute for meat is also influencing the expansion of the market. Besides, various innovative packaging technologies to preserve the quality and raise the shelf-life of the product are also other growth-inducing factors. Key players in the market introducing numerous types of halloumi cheese with new and exotic flavors with the intent of attracting a wider consumer base. Brand endorsements with celebrities and provision of attractive deals and facilities through e-commerce platforms for the consumers are also conducted. Factors such as increased expenditure capacities of the consumers along with the growing demand for luxury and premium food products are expected to propel the market forward.

Increasing popularity in fusion cuisine

Halloumi is increasingly being used in fusion foods, where it is combined with other kinds of culinary traditions. The creativity to pair halloumi with its unique flavors and ingredients leaves room for chefs to come up with phenomenal meals. Halloumi can be consumed with an Asian-inspired sauce, along with Mexican-style salsa, or amalgamated into Indian-inspired curries. This will represent the increased globalization of food culture and the demand for unique and adventurous food experiences. As consumers continue to be adventurous with flavors, the demand for halloumi cheese in fusion cuisine will only continue to grow. The trend presents immense opportunities for creativity on the part of chefs and new experiences for consumers in culinary combinations. Another driving force behind the growth of global fusion foods is Gen Z, which is the most diverse generation in US history, as per an industrial report. With 22 percent of Gen Zs having at least one immigrant parent and having access to unlimited global sources through social media, the generation grew up under much greater exposure to dynamic cultures-and that cultural perspective bled into every aspect from fashion to food.

Increasing focus on sustainable production methods

One of the major factors is the growing importance of sustainable production methods. According to a consulting company’s survey report, consumers are willing to pay an average of 9.7% more for products that are sourced or manufactured sustainably, even as cost-of-living and inflationary concerns weigh. Consumers are increasingly interested in local and handmade halloumi cheese, thus making connections between producers and end users. This has taken place within the greater progress toward ethically and sustainably produced foods. Artisanal halloumi cheese focuses on the importance of conventional production techniques, the flavor of the region, and responsibility to maintain environmental balance. In response to the demand of authentic products and origin, this innovation will further strengthen the market dynamics of halloumi cheese and enhance consumer trust along with environmental responsibility.

Halloumi Cheese Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each sub-segment of the global halloumi cheese market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country level from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on type, end use, and nature.

Analysis by Type:

• Flavored
• Unflavored
   

Unflavored leads the market with around 73.5% of market share in 2024. It is highly adopted since it can be used in many different types of cooking. It is a versatile cheese, suitable for both traditional and creative recipes. The neutral taste will allow consumers to add flavor according to their preference, thus making it a staple choice for chefs, households, and foodservice providers seeking adaptability and authenticity.

 Analysis by End Use:

• Food Service
• Residential
   

Residential leads the market in 2024. The residential segment holds the maximum market share by end use due to increasing demand for convenience and versatile food options in home cooking. Consumers look for premium products like halloumi to prepare everyday meals and host guests. Adaptability across various cuisines, with added health benefits like high protein content, makes halloumi a favorite in households.

Analysis by Nature:

• Organic
• Conventional
   

Conventional leads the market with around 70.5% of market share in 2024. The conventional segment will naturally dominate the market as it is widely available, relatively inexpensive, and many production methods are already established. Conventional halloumi cheese caters to a large consumer group-pricier sellers; it retains the authentic taste and texture that follows traditional recipes.

Regional Analysis:

• North America 
  • United States 
  • Canada 
• Asia Pacific 
  • China 
  • Japan 
  • India 
  • South Korea 
  • Australia 
  • Indonesia 
  • Others 
• Europe 
  • Germany 
  • France 
  • United Kingdom 
  • Italy 
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others 
• Latin America 
  • Brazil 
  • Mexico 
  • Others 
• Middle East and Africa
   

In 2024, Europe accounted for the largest market share of over 42.6%. Europe is currently the dominant halloumi cheese market, owing to its origins in Mediterranean diets, where it is an integral part of this diet. The consumer awareness here is very high, with strong productions in countries such as Cyprus and Greece, and with robust demand in Western and Northern Europe due to culinary trends and healthy lifestyles.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Halloumi Cheese Market Analysis

In 2024, the United States accounts for over 73.60% of the halloumi cheese market in North America. Halloumi cheese's growing appeal among health-conscious consumers and foodies looking for a variety of culinary options is driving development in the U.S. market. Halloumi is a popular substitute for regular cheese, because of its distinct texture and high protein content, particularly among flexitarians and vegetarians. The popularity of halloumi has been greatly boosted by the rise of Mediterranean diets, which place an emphasis on wholesome, plant-based foods. Many restaurants have added halloumi dishes to their menus because of the cheese's popularity in the foodservice business due to its versatility in grills, salads, and appetisers.

Product awareness has increased because of the expansion of their goods by retail chains like Whole Foods and Trader Joe's. According to USDA data, the per capita consumption of dairy products in the United States has been steadily rising year. In 2023, it was up 3% over the previous five years, 9% over the previous fifteen years, and 16% over the previous thirty years. In 2023, cheese consumption reached a record high of 40.2 pounds per person, up 0.3 pounds per person from the year before. In 1980, the average American ate 17.5 pounds of cheese, compared to 29.5 pounds in 2000.

Additionally, advertisements that portray halloumi as a "grillable" cheese have drawn in customers. The market's expansion is further supported by the rising demand for artisanal and high-end cheese products. Consistent market availability is being ensured by local manufacturing efforts in places such as California and Wisconsin, as well as imports from Cyprus, the main producer of halloumi.

Europe Halloumi Cheese Market Analysis

Owing to its gastronomic and cultural importance, especially in Cyprus and the surrounding Mediterranean nations, halloumi cheese continues to be the most popular product in Europe. Halloumi's marketability and authenticity have increased after the European Union designated it a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product in 2021, increasing demand among member nations. Given its high protein content and varied uses, halloumi's rise has been greatly aided by the growing vegetarian diets in nations like the UK, Germany, and Sweden. Halloumi is now more widely available to customers because to its prominent display in supermarket dairy departments, such as Tesco and Carrefour. The general rise in the consumption of cheese in the region is expected to further bolster the market growth. According to a recent USDA World Markets and Trade report, cheese output in the EU is expected to increase by almost 1% to almost 10.5 Million tonnes in 2024.  

Halloumi's appeal in the foodservice industry has increased due to the rise of grilled and gourmet dining trends. Partnerships with significant European distributors have also supported Cyprus's export initiatives by guaranteeing a consistent supply and affordable prices. Europe is positioned as the halloumi industry leader due to a combination of innovation, heritage, and changing nutritional choices.

Asia Pacific Halloumi Cheese Market Analysis

The market for halloumi cheese in Asia-Pacific is expanding quickly due to rising knowledge of Mediterranean diets and the globalisation of culinary trends. Adoption has been significant, especially in Australia, where grilled halloumi has gained popularity as a BBQ dish. The market for high-end cheese products is rising in nations like China, Japan, and India due to urbanisation and rising disposable incomes. According to the food brand Tetra Pak, high consumer demand for the favorite dairy food in the world is leading to increased growth in emerging markets, especially in Asia Pacific, where China and India are the major countries with CAGR growth. Cheese accounts for a 42% share of edible dairy, making it the largest dairy food in the world.  Products are becoming more accessible in the region thanks to retailers and e-commerce sites like Alibaba and Flipkart. Furthermore, the integration of halloumi onto Asian menus through the foodservice industry's acceptance of fusion cuisines has increased its prominence. The market's expansion is also aided by young customers' growing emphasis on meals high in protein and wellness. Halloumi is becoming more and more popular in this region thanks to promotional campaigns that emphasise its adaptability and grilling qualities. 

Latin America Halloumi Cheese Market Analysis

Halloumi cheese is becoming more and more popular in Latin America because to shifting dietary habits and the expanding impact of foreign cuisines. As per IEA data, Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), a varied region consisting of more than 30 nations, holding for 7% of the global GDP in 2023, while the per capita income is mildly below the world average. A growing middle class with diverse culinary tastes is driving up demand for speciality cheeses in urban areas of Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. Halloumi is a novel addition to the region's grilling-focused cuisines because of its distinctive qualities, such as its high melting point. To appeal to wealthy and health-conscious customers, supermarkets and speciality shops are starting to carry halloumi. Additionally, local distributors and foreign producers are working together to improve product availability, which is helping Latin America's market grow gradually but steadily.

Middle East and Africa Halloumi Cheese Market Analysis

Since halloumi cheese has a long history in Mediterranean cuisine and is widely consumed in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, the Middle East and Africa constitute a sizable market for it. Migrant workers consist of a large percentage of the general population of each of the GCC states. For instance, approximately 90% of the population residing in Qatar and UAE are foreigners. This percentage reaches up to two-thirds in Kuwait, half in Bahrain and Oman, and one-third in Saudi Arabia. Growing numbers of foreigners living in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are increasing demand for real halloumi. Its appeal is increased by the way halloumi is incorporated into both contemporary fusion cuisines and traditional recipes. Premium cheese consumption is on the rise due to rising disposable incomes, especially in urban areas. Moreover, expanding tourist and hospitality industries boost market expansion in this culturally varied region by promoting halloumi dishes.

Competitive Landscape:

Global market leaders in halloumi cheese are leading the way in terms of strategic initiatives such as product innovation, market expansion, and branding. The company is introducing flavored variants, organic options, and convenience packaging to keep pace with consumer preferences. Expansion of its distribution network in both established markets in Europe and developing markets in Asia-Pacific and North America is further contributing to penetration. Leading producers, especially from Cyprus and Greece, are focusing on authenticity and using PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) certification to give their products an edge. Marketing campaigns focused on the versatility and health aspects of halloumi have reached a broader audience. Sustainable production practices and investment in advanced processing technologies ensure that quality is maintained while taking care of the environment.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the halloumi cheese market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Almarai
• Arla Foods amba
• GALAKTOKOMIO A.D.S DAFNI LTD
• Hadjipieris Ltd
• Lefkonitziatis
• NORDEX FOOD A/S
• Petrou Bros Dairy Products Ltd
• Sussex High Weald Dairy Ltd
• WAIMATA CHEESE COMPANY
•  Zita Dairies Ltd.
   

Latest News and Developments:

• March 2024: New Zealand Food Safety is in collaboration with Zany Zeus Limited in its recall of a particular batch of halloumi cheese on account of the possible presence of Bacillus cereus.
• February 2024: Salata Farm won the award for Excellence in halloumi cheese production. The facility undergoes mild winters and summers resulting in an organic grazing environment to produce high quality milk.
   

Halloumi Cheese Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the halloumi cheese market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global halloumi cheese market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the halloumi cheese industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.