Sacre bleu!
OPINION: This old mutt hears some of the world's favourite cheese could soon disappear off shop shelves unless science can find a way to save the mould that makes them.
The world's cheese business was worth US$216 billion last year, and in four years should be worth US$237b, says market research company Canadean.
It says the global cheese market is growing strongly, driven by countries such as Brazil, where cheese consumption is expected to triple in the next decade.
However, the top five global brands Kraft, Philadelphia, President, Sargento and Galbani hold only 10% or less market share.
“With rising competition, top [producers] are using unique strategies, such as new product traits and uses, to differentiate themselves from other brands,” says Dhara Badiani, analyst at Canadean.
The rising populace of Brazil, China and India, with more money to spend, buys more processed foods including cheese.
“Pizza, pasta and sandwiches have become more popular in many emerging markets in recent years,” says Badiani.
Simultaneously, modern retail stores and fast food chains are driving retail and on-trade sales of cheese.
“Hypermarkets and supermarkets are the leading retail channels for cheese, offering a wide range including multi-brand, private label and specialty products,” Badiani argues.
The report also finds the Brazilian cheese market one of fastest growing globally. Brazilians ate on average only 3.4kg in 2009, but per capita consumption rose to 5.4kg in 2014 and is expected to reach 8.6kg in 2019.
Brazil, the world’s fifth-largest cheese market by volume, is expected to be third in 2019. This means in five years, or less, Brazilians’ cheese consumption will match that of the French (1.8b kg).
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
OPINION: Talking about plant-based food: “Chicken-free chicken” start-up Sunfed has had its valuation slashed to zero by major investor Blackbird…
OPINION: Synlait's financial woes won’t be going away anytime soon.