US dairy export growth built on cheese
- ZISK
- 5 days ago
- 1 min read
In my role at the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC), one thing I am often asked is what keeps me optimistic about U.S. dairy. More often than not, that answer starts with a conversation about cheese. U.S. cheese exports have continued to grow, which speaks to the quality of U.S. cheese and the growing appetite for cheese around the world. Last year, total U.S. dairy exports grew to 17% of domestic milk production, with suppliers setting records for cheese, butterfat, and high-protein whey.
What is behind this extraordinary run? A few things are working in our favor:
The first driver is protein. Not unlike the United States, global consumers are seeking more protein in their diets, and cheese delivers that as a delicious, convenient, and culturally adaptable product.
Krysta Harden
May 28, 2026
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