This National Cheese Day (4th June), new data has revealed just how deeply embedded cheese is in the hearts (and fridges) of the British public – especially amongst younger generations.
The research commissioned by CNIEL[1] – the French Dairy Interbranch Organisation – revealed that more than a third of people in the UK describe themselves as passionate about cheese (37%). This love runs even deeper amongst 18–34-year-olds, with 44% identifying as cheese devotees — proving that Gen Z and Millennials are proudly flying the flag for fromage.
Cheese is not just a fridge staple; it’s a lifestyle choice. A quarter of those surveyed said they would choose a cheeseboard over dessert when dining out, rising to 33% among 18–34s. For 37% of Brits, sharing a cheeseboard with a loved one is their idea of the perfect evening. In fact, a quarter (24%) went so far to say that cheese is their love language.
More than three quarters (78%) of people in the UK say they always have at least one type of cheese in their fridge, while 60% enjoy a wide variety of styles. However despite claiming to have a varied palette, the UK’s top three cheeses are restricted to the classics with Cheddar, Mozzarella and Brie coming out on top.
When it comes to the UK’s favourite cheesy dishes, pizza tops the list, followed closely by the classic cheese toastie and comforting mac and cheese.
“It’s clear that the British public have a long-standing love affair with cheese”, says cheese consultant and author Emma Young. “However, it’s time for the nation to expand their horizons and tantalise those tastebuds with some new flavours!”
“National Cheese Day is the perfect opportunity to explore new and exciting ways to enjoy cheese — whether that’s experimenting with different styles, pairing it creatively, or building the ultimate cheeseboard. And when it comes to stepping out of your comfort zone, there are a wide range of excellent European cheeses to tempt you.”
Here are Emma’s suggestions:
Amazing breakfast – Start your day with a toasted slice of sourdough topped with Brie de Meaux, Camembert or Reblochon and a spoonful of fig jam. This delicious way to start the day is enjoyed mainly in certain rural or mountainous regions of France, where eating habits are more rustic, rich and salty.
Go Alfresco with a Cheese Picnic – Pack slices of Cantal, Saint-Nectaire, and Fourme d’Ambert with fresh baguette, cornichons, and fruit for a laid-back French picnic. Crémant is optional!
Sweet meets Savoury – End your meal with a twist: serve a wedge of Brillat-Savarin with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of honey for a decadent, cheese-forward dessert.
Swop Cheese and Wine for Cheese and Beer – Many people don’t realise that cheese pairs perfectly with beer. Try Langres paired with an IPA beer. This cheese goes well with a baguette, walnuts, pears, and rosemary.
Create a cheeseboard with a twist – If you’re entertaining at home this summer, tantilise your guests tastebuds with a cheeseboard featuring some new and unexplored flavours. Looking for inspiration? I would choose – Livarot – nicknamed “The Colonel” due to the five bands wrapped around it, Livarot is a washed-rind cheese with a pungent aroma but surprisingly meaty, savoury flavour; Laguiole – a lesser-known mountain cheese with a firm texture and buttery, nutty flavour. It’s made using traditional methods and has a subtle grassy note from summer pastures and Soumaintrain – an oozy, washed-rind cheese which is creamy, punchy, and perfect served at room temperature with crusty bread and white Burgundy. Be creative and brighten up your platter with fresh seasonal or dried fruit, jams and more…