What's happened
Graham’s Family Dairy has expanded its Fife plant to meet soaring demand for cottage cheese driven by TikTok trends. Demand has tripled over two years, prompting a 50% production increase and new jobs, with exports reaching as far as Hong Kong and the Gulf States.
What's behind the headline?
The cottage cheese revival exemplifies how social media can reshape food markets. TikTok's viral recipes, like breakfast rounds and edible cookie dough, have created a global culinary phenomenon, leading to record demand. Graham’s response—expanding production and exporting internationally—demonstrates how traditional products can be reinvented through digital influence. This trend benefits local jobs and the UK dairy industry, but also raises questions about sustainability and market volatility. The company's commitment to traditional open-vat methods preserves product quality, positioning it uniquely in a competitive market. The story underscores the power of social media to revive and transform food consumption patterns, with likely continued growth and export expansion.
What the papers say
The Scotsman highlights the global impact of TikTok trends on cottage cheese demand, noting the company's international exports and traditional production methods. The Independent emphasizes the rapid growth in UK demand and the company's investment to keep pace. Both sources agree on the viral social media influence and the economic boost for local employment, with The Scotsman providing a broader view of international markets and The Independent focusing on UK retail dynamics.
How we got here
The resurgence of cottage cheese stems from social media trends, especially TikTok, where viral recipes have reignited interest in the product. Historically popular in the 70s and 80s, demand declined but has surged again due to younger audiences and social media influence, prompting UK retailers and producers to adapt.
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Tesco plc, trading as Tesco, is a British multinational groceries and general merchandise retailer with headquarters in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, England, United Kingdom.