Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin – Wisconsin Cheese
Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, the marketing and promotional organization behind Wisconsin Cheese, represents the state's 7,000 dairy farms, making Wisconsin the largest producer of specialty cheese in the United States. Wisconsin is the only U.S. state that requires cheesemakers to be licensed, ensuring an unparalleled level of craftsmanship and quality.
With more than 600 varieties, types, and styles of cheese, Wisconsin produces 26% of all cheese made in the U.S. and accounts for nearly 50% of the nation's specialty cheese. The state's cheese industry generates $45.6 billion annually, supporting 154,000 jobs.
Core Business and Market Positioning
Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin is a non-profit marketing organization funded by Wisconsin dairy farmers. The organization promotes Wisconsin Cheese worldwide, supporting exports, retail distribution, and foodservice partnerships.
- Industry: Dairy Products, Specialty Cheese, Food Export
- Headquarters: Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Market Reach: Global (Exports to over 50 countries)
- Wisconsin’s Dairy Industry Impact: $45.6 billion annually
- Market Share: 26% of total U.S. cheese production, 50% of specialty cheese production
- Production Volume: 3.39 billion pounds of cheese annually
Product Portfolio
Wisconsin produces an unmatched variety of award-winning, high-quality cheese, crafted using centuries-old European traditions and modern innovations.
1. Cheddar Cheese
- Mild, Medium, Sharp, Extra Sharp
- Aged Cheddar (Up to 15+ years)
- Flavored Cheddar (Bacon, Jalapeño, Garlic)
2. Colby & Monterey Jack
- Colby (Originated in Wisconsin)
- Monterey Jack & Pepper Jack
3. Italian-Style Cheeses
- Mozzarella (Low Moisture & Fresh)
- Provolone
- Parmesan & Asiago
- Ricotta & Mascarpone
4. Swiss-Style Cheeses
- Emmental Swiss
- Baby Swiss
- Gruyère
5. Blue & Soft-Ripened Cheeses
- Blue Cheese
- Gorgonzola
- Brie & Camembert
6. Hispanic-Style Cheeses
- Queso Blanco
- Queso Fresco
7. Artisan & Specialty Cheeses
- Limburger (One of the only U.S. producers)
- Havarti
- Brick Cheese (Wisconsin Original)
8. String & Snack Cheese
- Mozzarella String Cheese
- Cheese Curds
Production & Supply Chain Strength
Wisconsin has a fully integrated dairy supply chain, ensuring consistent quality, traceability, and sustainable production.
- 1,200+ Licensed Cheesemakers (Only state requiring a cheesemaker license)
- More than 600 Unique Cheese Varieties produced annually
- Total Cheese Production: 3.39 billion pounds per year
- Highest Number of Certified Master Cheesemakers in the U.S.
- State-of-the-Art Processing Facilities & Aging Programs
Financial Strength & Market Performance
Wisconsin's cheese industry is a key economic driver, leading the U.S. in cheese production, exports, and specialty cheese innovation.
- Annual Economic Impact: $45.6 billion
- Total Cheese Sales: $7 billion annually
- Specialty Cheese Market Share: 50% of U.S. specialty cheese
- Global Export Markets: 50+ countries
- Key Retail Partners: Whole Foods, Walmart, Costco, Kroger, Trader Joe’s
- Foodservice Clients: Major global restaurant chains & hospitality brands
Certifications & Compliance
Wisconsin Cheese products meet the highest industry standards for safety, sustainability, and authenticity.
- FDA & USDA Compliance
- HACCP - Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Points
- SQF (Safe Quality Food) Certification
- GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative) Certified Facilities
- Kosher & Halal Certification
- Certified Master Cheesemaker Program (Exclusive to Wisconsin)
Supply Chain & Export Data
Wisconsin Cheese is one of the fastest-growing U.S. dairy exports, reaching markets across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Top Importer Countries (2023)
| Country | Import Value ($ Million) |
|---|
| Canada | $150M |
| Mexico | $120M |
| Japan | $95M |
| China | $70M |
| South Korea | $65M |
Export & Logistics Capabilities
- Cold-Chain Logistics ensuring product freshness
- Dairy-Specific Distribution Partnerships with global importers
- Over 250 Export-Certified Wisconsin Dairy Plants
- Strategic Warehousing & Distribution Centers for international shipping
Customer Testimonials & Market Reputation
Wisconsin Cheese is the most awarded cheese in the world, consistently recognized for quality, taste, and innovation.
- "Wisconsin Cheese is unmatched in variety and quality. It’s our top choice for gourmet retail and foodservice applications." – European Distributor
- "We import Wisconsin artisan cheeses due to their craftsmanship and aging techniques, which rival traditional European cheeses." – Japanese Retail Buyer
Major Achievements & Industry Recognition
- Most Awarded Cheese in the World – Over 5,500 national & international awards
- Only U.S. State Requiring Cheesemaker Licenses
- Home to the Only Master Cheesemaker Certification Program in the U.S.
- Largest Specialty Cheese Producer in the U.S.
- Innovation Award for Sustainable Dairy Practices
Future Growth & Expansion Plans
Wisconsin Cheese aims to expand its global presence through innovation, sustainability, and increased export capabilities.
- Strengthening Partnerships in Asia & Europe
- Investing in Sustainable Dairy Farming
- Expanding Cold-Chain Logistics for Exports
- Enhancing Digital Marketing & E-Commerce for Direct Sales
- Developing New Cheese Varieties & Flavors for Global Markets
With a rich heritage, world-class cheesemaking expertise, and strong global demand, Wisconsin Cheese continues to set the gold standard for quality, craftsmanship, and innovation in the cheese industry.
