State of the Industry Reports

The State of the U.S. Artisan & Specialty Cheese Industry Reports are developed from responses to the biennial survey launched in 2016. This biennial study focuses on gaining an understanding of the current state of the U.S. artisan, farmstead, and specialty cheese industry. We believe that the best way to learn about the issues facing the industry is by surveying cheesemakers and asking them to share your thoughts, opinions, and insights into your unique operations. Funding for the survey and reports is generously provided by the American Cheese Education Foundation.

2022 State of the Industry Reports

You can view these reports on the ACS Learning Center here.

2020 State of the U.S. Artisan/Specialty Cheese Industry Reports

Report of Key Findings: This report includes highlights from the 2020 survey, including data on demographics, production, marketing, food safety, industry participation, and attitudes and perceptions. Download the Report Here (PDF)

Benchmarking Report: This report is designed to help cheesemakers assess how their businesses have performed relative to others, includes data on geography, production methods, production volume, milk types, marketing and distribution practices, and profitability.  Download the Report Here (PDF)

Food Safety Report: This report includes food safety-related findings such as milk type, aging practices, food safety planning, milk testing, regulatory knowledge, and inspections and audits. Download the Report Here (PDF)

2018 State of the U.S. Artisan/Specialty Cheese Industry Reports

Report of Key Findings: Download the Report Here (PDF)
Benchmarking Report: Download the Report Here (PDF)
Food Safety Report: Download the Report Here (PDF)

2016 State of the U.S. Artisan/Specialty Cheese Industry Reports

Report of Key Findings: Download the Report Here (PDF)