From the cube of sharp cheddar to a slice of creamy fontina, Wisconsin Cheese and its artisan cheesemakers offer a bounty of deliciousness. As one of the leaders in this particular food space, the organization celebrates the history, craft, and creativity that the makers produce. Looking ahead at 2025, one particular food trend will influence what people include on that cheese board and it epitomizes what Wisconsin Cheese does best.
Food trends can be a tricky subject. While industry pundits can tout knowledge, consumers need to adopt those predictions. If the ideas do not resonate, the concept will disappear as quickly as the idea of a McPlant burger.
Recently, Wisconsin Cheese revealed its thoughts on 2025 cheese trends. While there are plenty of ideas to parse in their findings, one concept captures the foundation of what makes cheese from Wisconsin unique.
As many people know, Wisconsin is the only state that requires cheesemakers to obtain a license. Although not necessarily too arduous a process, the multi-year requirement ensures that the cheesemakers understand the craft and care that is associated with the Wisconsin Cheese designation.
In some ways, that idea is at the heart of one of the food trends, timeless classics with a modern twist. Understanding and appreciating the heritage and tradition of making cheese is vital before anyone can expand on those flavors. That connection to the past ensure that the flavor foundation is strong. From there, anything is possible.
Wisconsin Cheese found that “64% of consumers are eager to try new products that incorporate old-world recipes.” While that statement is broad, it is a concept that many popular cheese brands can easily incorporate. From a Blue Cheddar from Roelli Red Rock to Herbs de Provence Fontina from Landmark Creamery, the possibilities are vast.
These two suggestions are just a small section of the cheese wheel. Brands, like the award-winning Marieke Gouda, are a stunning example of celebrating old world heritage yet offering creative interpretations. That particular cheesemaker weaves the old and new world into every scrumptious bite.
The cheesemakers look at every aspect of the process to infuse new flavors into the experience. While the base ingredients are always the highest quality, alteration to the aging techniques have a tremendous impact on the final flavor. Given that cheese is constantly evolving and adapting to its environment, slight changes will change the final flavor.
Even broader based food trends can influence cheese makers. Flavors like hot honey, bold spices, fresh herbs, and more have found their way into special offerings. Blending that familiar and new keeps people going back for another slice.
While the classics will never go out of style, reinterpretation of those favorites keeps Wisconsin Cheese evolving. The cheese board will always be full of variety and delicious options.