Cheese consumption is increasing in Bangladesh due to cultural shifts that are changing people’s food habits. According to the Bureau of Statistics, Cheese consumption is approximately USD 50 million per year (2016). The consumption rate of cheese is increasing by 15% year over year during the last 5 years. Mozzarella cheese is especially becoming popular in Bangladesh due to its taste, texture, physical properties and nutritive value. The use of mozzarella cheese in popular food items such as sandwiches, pizza, baked goods and salads have increased demand from 5-star hotels, restaurants and groceries in expanding urban areas. Mozzarella cheese has high export potential which is approximately US$30.4 billion.

Thakurgaon cheese is competing with those imported from foreign countries. Over the past few years, at least 50 dairy farms have been producing quality cheese in Thakurgaon. Around 20,000 litres of milk are used to produce cheese per day, which is sent to 5-star hotels, chain shops and fast-food outlets. Approximately, 10 to 11 litres of milk are required to produce one kilogram (kg) of cheese. Approximately 1800 to 2000 kgs of cheese is produced every day in these farms, where 200 male and female workers are engaged.

The traditional distribution channel of marketing cheese is through a middlemen or wholesalers who identify potential buyers and negotiate price. A few local cheese manufacturers can directly market and sell to retailers in the urban markets. Market demand for standardized quality cheese is rising. Quality control, safe and convenient packaging, technologies to increase shelf life of cheese and information regarding nutritional value are not included in the current distribution, marketing and selling of cheese in Bangladesh.

In this context, UNCDF supported Eco Social Development Foundation for a project ‘Thakurgaon Mozzarella Cheese Branding, Packaging, and Distribution’ to help small-scale local women entrepreneurs engaged in the technical development and quality improvement of the cheese industry. The objective of the project was to set up a production unit and a warehouse for mozzarella cheese warehouse in Thakurgaon District of Bangladesh. Another goal of this project was to connect with the small producers who produced cheese at household level.

For details: https://spark.adobe.com/page/o2BRuebIeFWSN/