North America Non-dairy Cheese Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

North America Non-dairy Cheese Market Analysis

The North America Non-dairy Cheese Market size is estimated at 0.54 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 1.32 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 19.71% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The North American non-dairy cheese industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by evolving consumer preferences and lifestyle changes. Supermarkets and hypermarkets continue to dominate the retail landscape, accounting for 81.95% of volume sales in 2022, reflecting the importance of traditional brick-and-mortar stores in product distribution. These established retail channels provide consumers with easy access to a wide variety of cheese alternatives while offering manufacturers a reliable platform for new product launches. The strategic importance of these channels is evidenced by recent market entries, such as Armored Fresh's introduction of plant-based cheese market products across more than 100 supermarkets in New York City, including prominent retailers like City Acres, Met Fresh, and Key Foods.

The market is witnessing a notable shift in consumer behavior, particularly in terms of purchasing patterns and dietary preferences. The rise of online shopping has become increasingly significant, with approximately 22% of Canadian consumers regularly purchasing groceries through digital platforms. This trend has led to the emergence of specialized online retailers focusing on vegan cheese products, including Vegan Supply, Real Canadian Superstore, and Good Rebel, who offer extensive selections of dairy alternatives cheese products. The convenience and accessibility of online shopping continue to reshape the industry's distribution landscape.

Consumer awareness and adoption of vegan dairy diets have reached unprecedented levels across North America. In the United States, the percentage of consumers identifying as vegan has grown significantly, reaching 6% of the population, while in Canada, approximately 10% of the adult population considered themselves vegan as of 2022. This dietary shift reflects a broader understanding of health and environmental implications associated with food choices, driving innovation and product development in the non-dairy cheese sector.

The industry has demonstrated robust growth dynamics, with sales performance indicating strong market momentum. In 2022, the sector recorded impressive growth metrics, with sales value increasing by 14.7% and volume growing by 11.2% compared to the previous year. This growth trajectory is supported by continuous product innovation, expanding distribution networks, and increasing consumer acceptance of plant-based alternatives. Manufacturers are responding to this demand by developing products that more closely mirror the taste, texture, and functionality of traditional dairy cheese, while also focusing on clean label ingredients and improved nutritional profiles.

North America Non-dairy Cheese Market Trends

Health consciousness and consumer preference for vegan-based products is driving the consumption of vegan cheese

• In North America, the per capita consumption of non-dairy cheese is increasing yearly due to consumers' increasing health consciousness and preference toward vegan-based products. As plant-based cheese is dairy-free and does not contain any lactose or casein, it reduces the likelihood of intestinal permeability. With non-dairy cheese having a longer shelf life and a hard texture that can be shredded conveniently, consumers prefer this product. The per capita consumption of vegan cheese is anticipated to rise at a massive growth rate of 33.5% in 2024 from 2021.
• Consumers in North America, particularly those in the United States, are adopting a vegan lifestyle. In 2022, the per capita consumption of plant-based cheese increased by 10.4% compared to 2021, while the per capita consumption of conventional cheese declined by 2.5% in the same year. In the United States, as of 2021, 62% or 79 million US households bought plant-based products. The increased repeat rates of plant-based food over the years illustrate strong consumer commitment and interest. Thus, the percentage of consumers purchasing multiple products within the plant-based category grew from 78% in 2020 to 79% in 2021.
• In North America, Canada is ranked second in per capita consumption of vegan cheese, with a market share of 16.9%. Besides animal proteins, growth hormones, and saturated animal fats, vegan cheese is a safe and healthy alternative and is also a good alternative for those with allergies or lactose intolerance. In 2022, 10% of the Canadian adult population considered themselves vegan. Canada ranks ninth globally as a vegan-friendly country.

OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT

Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel

Off-Trade Segment in North America Non-Dairy Cheese Market

The off-trade distribution channel dominates the North American non-dairy cheese market, accounting for approximately 96% of the total market value in 2024. This channel's prominence is primarily driven by supermarkets and hypermarkets, which offer extensive shelf space and product variety to consumers. Major retail chains like Walmart, Safeway, Sobeys, Metro Market, and Loblaw Companies maintain dedicated sections for cheese alternatives products, featuring brands such as Daiya, Simple Truth, and So Delicious. The segment is also experiencing rapid growth, projected to expand at nearly 19% annually from 2024 to 2029, driven by the increasing penetration of online retail channels and the evolution of consumer shopping preferences. The ease of shopping experience through online platforms and the expanding presence of retailers in off-trade channels have become major growth drivers in this segment.

On-Trade Segment in North America Non-Dairy Cheese Market

The on-trade segment represents a smaller but significant channel in the North American vegan cheese market, primarily driven by the foodservice sector's increasing adoption of plant-based cheese alternatives. This channel encompasses restaurants, cafes, and other foodservice establishments that incorporate non-dairy cheese into their menu offerings. The segment is witnessing steady growth as more dining establishments respond to the rising consumer demand for plant-based options. Fast-food chains and restaurants are increasingly partnering with non-dairy cheese manufacturers to expand their vegan menu offerings, while cafes and coffee shops are incorporating these products into their breakfast and sandwich selections. The growing trend of plant-based dining and the increasing number of vegan-friendly establishments continue to support the expansion of this distribution channel.

North America Non-dairy Cheese Market Geography Segment Analysis

Non-dairy Cheese Market in the United States

The United States cheese market dominates the North American non-dairy cheese market, commanding approximately 79% of the total market value in 2024. The market's robust growth is primarily driven by the increasing prevalence of lactose intolerance among consumers and evolving dietary preferences. The presence of over 1,474 plant-based restaurants across the country has created a strong foundation for vegan cheese consumption. The market is further strengthened by the widespread availability of products through various distribution channels, including supermarkets, convenience stores, and online retailers. Major supermarket chains and retail outlets have dedicated sections for plant-based cheese products, making non-dairy cheese easily accessible to consumers. The growing consumer awareness about health benefits associated with plant-based products and the rising vegan population, which has increased from 1% in 2014 to 6% currently, continue to drive market expansion. Additionally, the strong presence of key manufacturers and their continuous product innovations in terms of taste, texture, and variety contribute to market growth.

Non-dairy Cheese Market in Canada

Canada represents a highly dynamic market for non-dairy cheese, projected to grow at approximately 28% annually from 2024 to 2029. The market is experiencing rapid transformation driven by changing consumer preferences and increasing health consciousness among Canadians. The country's strong support for plant-based initiatives, exemplified by organizations like Plant-Based Foods of Canada (PBFC), has created a favorable environment for market growth. The widespread presence of supermarket chains such as Walmart, Safeway, Sobeys, Metro, and Loblaw Companies, with their extensive networks across the country, has significantly improved product accessibility. These retailers have dedicated sections for plant-based products, including vegan cheese, catering to the growing demand. The market is further bolstered by the increasing number of consumers adopting plant-based diets, with about 6.4 million Canadians preferring diets that reduce or eliminate meat consumption. The country's ranking as the ninth most vegan-friendly nation globally reflects its strong market potential and consumer acceptance of cheese alternatives.

Non-dairy Cheese Market in Mexico

Mexico's non-dairy cheese market is experiencing significant growth, albeit from a smaller base compared to its North American counterparts. The market is characterized by a strong presence of convenience stores, which serve as primary distribution channels for dairy alternatives products. Major convenience store chains like Oxxo, Extra, and Circle K play a crucial role in making these products accessible to consumers across the country. The market is witnessing increased penetration of international brands and growing acceptance of plant-based alternatives among Mexican consumers. Supermarket chains such as Walmart, Comercial Mexicana, Soriana, and Chedraui have expanded their plant-based offerings, including non-dairy cheese products. The emergence of warehouse club stores as key distribution partners and the growing popularity of online retail channels are creating new opportunities for market expansion. The increasing consumer awareness about health benefits and the rising adoption of vegetarian and vegan lifestyles are driving market growth in Mexico.

Non-dairy Cheese Market in Other Countries

The non-dairy cheese market in other North American countries and territories shows varying degrees of development and potential. These markets are characterized by growing awareness of plant-based alternatives and increasing health consciousness among consumers. The expansion of international retail chains and the availability of imported non-dairy cheese products are helping develop these markets. Local retailers and food service establishments are gradually incorporating plant-based options, including non-dairy cheese, into their offerings. The growing influence of health and wellness trends, coupled with increasing environmental consciousness, is expected to drive future market growth in these regions. The development of distribution networks and the entry of new players are likely to further strengthen these markets in the coming years.

Free With This Report

We provide a comprehensive and exhaustive set of data pointers for global, regional, and country-level metrics that illustrate the fundamentals of the dairy alternatives industry. With the help of 45+ free charts, clients can access in-depth market analysis based on per capita consumption numbers and production data of raw materials for dairy alternatives, through granular level segmental information supported by a repository of market data, trends, and expert analysis. Data and analysis on dairy alternative products, categories of dairy alternative products, product types, etc., are available in the form of comprehensive reports as well as excel based data worksheets.