Italian cheeses are enjoying remarkable success in the UK, with 2024 marking a standout year for exports. From time-honoured PDO classics to cutting-edge innovations, Italian dairy products continue to embody premium quality and culinary tradition on the global stage.
“Our portfolio for the UK market is led by PDO cheeses – true icons of Italy’s dairy tradition,” explains Cinzia Ferrari, Category Manager – Italian Food at Atlante. “Grana Padano, Pecorino, Mozzarella di Bufala, Taleggio and Gorgonzola are just a few of the top-tier products we export, all appreciated for their distinctive flavour, high quality, and adherence to traditional methods.”
In addition to PDO staples, demand for other varieties such as Mozzarella and Ricotta is on the rise across European markets. Projections for 2024 suggest intra-EU exports of fresh cheeses like Mozzarella and Ricotta could reach 185,000 tonnes, while Grana Padano and Parmigiano Reggiano are expected to hit 70,000 tonnes.
Fresh cheeses now represent a substantial share of imports into the UK, accounting for more than 40% of all cheese coming into the country – a clear sign of changing consumer tastes. “Mozzarella di Bufala remains one of our flagship exports,” Ferrari adds. “Its rich taste and unique texture continue to appeal to international consumers. We’re also seeing strong uptake of Mozzarella Pearls, particularly in the convenient doypack format, which has been well received by both end consumers and professional kitchens.”
Atlante’s range also includes aged and grated cheeses such as Grated Hard Cheese, celebrated for their versatility and intense flavour – perfect for a variety of culinary applications.
Strong Momentum in the UK Market Backed by Data
“The UK is one of our most important markets, and 2024 has been exceptional in terms of growth,” says Ferrari. “We’ve recorded a double-digit increase in export volumes, and the positive trend has continued well into early 2025.”
This rise in Italian cheese exports aligns with broader retail trends: take-home cheese sales in the UK have grown by over £90 million year-on-year, with volumes increasing by around 10 million kilos. These figures reflect not only greater demand but also a more adventurous and engaged consumer base.
Ferrari emphasises the importance of analysing volume over value to get a more accurate picture of market performance. “In recent years, the prices of cheese, milk, and processing have risen sharply. If you only look at value-based figures, you might miss the true story. Volume tells us much more about real demand and consumer behaviour.”
Innovation With Roots in Tradition
While Atlante remains a staunch advocate for traditional PDO cheeses, the company is also adapting to shifting consumer preferences through a robust innovation strategy.
“Fresh cheeses typically have a shelf life of 20 to 21 days, so packaging innovation plays a crucial role in maintaining quality,” says Ferrari. “We are also making significant investments in developing products that align with modern dietary trends.”
Key innovation areas include:
- High-protein cheeses for health-conscious consumers seeking nutrient-dense options
- Plant-based alternatives to meet the needs of vegans and lactose-intolerant customers
- Reduced-fat and low-salt cheeses, catering to the growing demand for wellness-focused foods
- Stuffed burratine, offering a unique combination of tradition and gourmet creativity
“Our foundation is firmly rooted in traditional Italian excellence,” Ferrari concludes, “but we are equally dedicated to bringing forward-thinking products and packaging solutions that reflect evolving market needs.”
Atlante continues to position itself as a bridge between Italian tradition and international innovation, making Italian cheeses more accessible, relevant, and appreciated around the world – especially in the ever-evolving UK market.
