All-natural sweeteners are in high demand, and since honey has been used in the dairy industry traditionally, it’s no surprise that manufacturers are reaching for nature’s sweetener in their new cheese product developments.
Honey provides dairy products with a complex flavor profile of sweetness and acidity. The ingredient’s use has been traditionally strong in yogurt with recent expansion in ice cream, artisan cheeses and cream cheeses. Consumers want better-for-you sweetness, and they also want to indulge — especially during National Dairy Month in June.
Dairy Processing notes that flavored cheese is booming, with snacking and cheese-based charcuterie boards delighting consumers who are looking to both cook at home and have fun trying something new. Snacking cheese sales comprise 10% of specialty cheese sales. Trends that will continue at least through 2022, the site shares, include an uptick in smaller gatherings and the need for international flavors. Premium cheese and cheese boards will predictably stand out. Roth’s research found consumers are looking for inspiration on social media, with #charcuterie at 1.3 million posts, #cheeseboards with one million and #cheese at an astounding 24.5 million posts.
