“Rising Demand for Functional and Health-Oriented Dairy Alternatives”
- A key trend reshaping the low-salt cheese market is the growing consumer shift toward health-conscious dairy products, especially those with functional benefits such as heart health, reduced sodium intake, and better weight management
- Manufacturers are increasingly investing in low-sodium formulations without compromising taste or texture, appealing to consumers with hypertension, cardiovascular concerns, or lifestyle-related dietary preferences
- For instance, in January 2024, Arla Foods Ingredients launched a new range of low-salt cheese prototypes using dairy proteins to maintain flavor and functionality while reducing sodium by up to 50%
- The trend is further driven by government health campaigns and increased front-of-pack labeling regulations, prompting brands to reformulate existing cheese lines into healthier options
- As a result, key companies such as Lactalis Ingredients and FrieslandCampina are leveraging protein isolates, potassium-based salt replacers, and fermentation innovations to offer clean-label, nutrient-dense low-salt cheese
- With health-driven consumerism and label transparency becoming mainstream, the demand for functional low-salt cheeses with added benefits such as high protein or probiotic content is set to expand significantly across both developed and emerging markets
