U. S. C H E E S E U P DAT E
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DEMAND FOR QUALITY USA CHEESE ON THE RISE IN THE MIDDLE EAST Increased brand awareness as a result of trade campaigns, expansion in retail, foodservice and food manufacturing segments supporting USA cheese expansion in the UAE and wider GCC region
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he USA Cheese Guild®, responsible for showcasing the creativity and versatility of the U.S cheese industry, has witnessed steady growth in the demand for cheese from the USA in the UAE and the wider Middle East thanks to intensive awareness and trade campaigns and increasing consumer demand for new, innovative, flavourful, healthy, natural and convenient foods. In recent years, the USA Cheese Guild has featured a range of U.S cheesemakers to the region resulting in significant inroads into the retail segment with several USA cheeses now available on shelves and deli counters of major supermarket chains in the Middle East. Chef Antonio El Khoury, Director of Culinary Programs MENA for the USA Cheese Guild said: “The popularity of USA cheese is a testament to its quality and varieties that suit every taste. With more than 1,000 types of cheese, there are many ways to consume USA cheeses. It is enjoyed around the world as a stand-alone food, as well as a versatile ingredient in food applications to suit every part of the day.” According to the USA Cheese Guild, the United States exports of cheese to the Middle East during 2020 is estimated at over 16,800 tonnes, worth US$76 million. The UAE accounted for 4,800 tonnes, worth over US$22 million. In total, the United States produces nearly 6 million tonnes
FOOD BUSINESS GULF & MIDDLE EAST
Chef Antonio El Khoury
a year, which is more than France, Italy, and Switzerland combined. As part of the organisation’s drive to showcase the range of high-quality cheeses available, and the new and exciting ways of using them in fusion and local cuisine, the USA Cheese Guild has undertaken a unique and multi-faceted educational approach to showcase the quality, taste, health and nutrition of USA cheese. The USA Cheese Guild has collaborated with several organisations in the Middle East. These
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