Cottage cheese sales surge as social media drives demand

A surge in cottage cheese sales driven by social media has manufacturers scrambling to meet demand.

Cottage cheese skyrockets in popularity as demand outpaces supply

NEW YORK — Consumers have recently embraced cottage cheese, transforming it from a forgotten diet staple into a trendy food item. Market research firm Circana reports a 20% increase in U.S. retail sales for cottage cheese in the year ending June 15, following significant annual growth in the previous years. This resurgence has surprised industry leaders, with Albertons' CEO Susan Morris expressing amazement at the strong growth in this category. Brands like Organic Valley and Good Culture are now facing challenges keeping up with the soaring demand. Good Culture has acknowledged the shortage on social media, stating that the demand has been "WILD." Experts believe the interest in high-protein foods combined with viral TikTok recipes have contributed to this trend, making cottage cheese appealing to a younger audience.

The uptick in cottage cheese popularity emphasizes how social media can revitalize long-overlooked food items. Influencers and home cooks have not only transformed the image of cottage cheese but have also encouraged creative uses, from ice creams to dips. This evolution illustrates a broader trend where consumer tastes shift rapidly based on viral content. As companies race to enhance production capacity, challenges remain in supply chains, leaving fans to wait for their favorite products. This situation also poses strategic risks for brands, as the current heightened interest may not sustain indefinitely. A prolonged focus on cottage cheese might pave the way for further innovations within the dairy sector.

Highlights

As production ramps up, the pressure remains on manufacturers to satisfy a growing demand.