SYRACUSE, N.Y. (June 2, 2026) – In celebration of National Cheese Day on June 4, a new survey finds that cheese isn’t just a favorite food for New Yorkers – many also see cheese as a good source of protein.

According to a recent survey of 5,000 Americans – including 100 New Yorkers – respondents across the Empire State identified their favorite cheeses, how often they consume them, and the important role cheese plays in their daily diets. The survey was conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by Undeniably Dairy.

Nationally, cheddar (77%) and mozzarella (74%) ranked as America’s favorite cheeses. In New York, the two cheeses are tied for the top spot (68%). Rounding out New Yorkers’ top five favorite cheeses were parmesan (61%), American (60%) and cream cheese (51%). Cream cheese’s strong finish is fitting as New York is the leading cream cheese-producing state.

The survey also highlighted just how much New Yorkers embrace cheese in everyday life:

  • 82% said cheese is one of their favorite foods in general
  • 56% indicated they would be upset or devastated if cheese disappeared
  • 62% always or often purchase cheese as part of their grocery trip
  • 70% classify themselves as a cheese “enthusiast” or “lover”
  • 74% are either very aware or somewhat aware that cheese is a good source of protein

Sliced cheese is the preferred form for New Yorkers (69%), followed by shredded (61%) and block cheese (58%).

As for why New Yorkers reach for cheese, the answer is simple: they enjoy the taste. Three-quarters of respondents (75%) said taste was the top reason they eat cheese, followed by convenience (46%) and comfort (44%).

New York’s love of cheese is also reflected in the state’s rich dairy heritage. New York is one of the nation’s leading dairy states, ranking among the top five nationally for both milk production (more than 16 billion pounds annually) and cheese production (78 million pounds annually).

With more than 2,700 dairy farms across the state, dairy is New York’s leading agricultural sector, contributing $3.9 billion annually to the state’s economy. Given dairy’s importance to the Empire State, it’s no surprise that milk is New York’s official state beverage and yogurt is its official state snack.

Links

B-Roll of Cheese:
https://dairyspot.box.com/s/k3ki61hcdidb09rnw3oga1e0cqtovrnk
Credit: American Dairy Association North East

Talker Research Survey:
Talker Research Cheese Survey

U.S. Cheese Map Infographic:
How Much Does America Love Cheese?

Survey Video:
Talker Research Cheese Survey Video