This South American country produces more than 824,000 tons of cheese annually. Photo: Fabrizio Oviedo/La República/Composite by Alpina
Cheese is one of the foods that people love for breakfast, lunch and dinner in South America. This dairy product represents an ancient tradition and has become a socioeconomic and cultural indicator in Latin America. As we enter the continent, a constant question arises: Which country in South America leads the consumption of this food and that too? Largest consumer worldwide?
The countries of the European Union lead the world in cheese consumption. Photo: ABC
The answer takes us to a nation known for its diversity, both cultural and gastronomic, as a major consumer of cheese. South AmericaWith an impressive figure to spare 824,000 tonnes per annum. This data underlines the importance of cheese in the diet of its citizens and reveals the important role the dairy industry plays in the country's economy. However, other countries such as Peru and Mexico also provide significant consumption figures.
Which South American country consumes the most cheese in the region and which other country beats it?
Brazil It is crowned as the largest South American company in cheese consumption and surpasses Argentina, which ranks third in the region with 455,000 tons annually. In second place is Mexico. This preference for cheese in Brazil reflects the variety of flavors and relevance of dairy products to its economy. Globally, countries in the European Union, apart from Russia and the UK, lead the rankings, but Brazil remains strong In the top 5 Cheese consumption as a force.
What are Peru's favorite cheeses?
In Peru, the cheese tradition embraces unique flavors: Andean, pariah, avocado and fresh According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation (MINAGRI), they are the most representative of the country. The production of these cheeses is concentrated in regions such as Cajamarca, Arequipa and Junin, where cheese making is not only a cultural practice but also an important source of economic livelihood. Rich in nutrients like calcium and protein, these cheeses stand out for the artisanal production method that requires 7 to 10 liters of milk to make one kilogram of cheese.
Baria cheese is one of Peru's favorites. Photo: Buenazzo
Which country consumes the most cheese in the world?
Looking beyond the borders of South America, Greece is positioned as the world's largest consumer of cheese, with individual intake exceeding 37 kilograms annually. France and Malta follow closely behind, proving that cheese is an essential element in various culinary cultures. In this global scenario, another European country in the ranking is Germany.
What is the origin of cheese?
The history of cheese is lost in the mists of time, and its origins may lie in domestication of animals in the Stone Age. Events such as the Arab merchant's accidental discovery of cheese during a journey through the desert, its presence in foods Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome, tell us about its evolution and adaptation over the ages. This culinary and cultural journey culminates in modernity, where cheese has become a symbol of tradition, innovation and gastronomic pleasure.
