Cottage cheese, once a staple of 1970s dieting, has made an unexpected comeback among Gen Z, thanks to the power of TikTok and social media. This curdled milk product, which was once looked down upon, is now experiencing a resurgence in popularity due to its health benefits and versatility.
Here’s why cottage cheese is back in the spotlight:
Health Benefits: Cottage cheese is low in fat, low in calories, and high in protein. For health-conscious individuals, it’s an ideal addition to their diet. Unlike other dairy products like cheese and yogurt, which can be high in fat, cottage cheese provides a protein boost without the extra calories.
Inventive Uses: Gen Z TikTokers are getting creative with cottage cheese. They’re incorporating it into various recipes, from scrambled eggs to toast and even cookie dough. The versatility of cottage cheese allows it to seamlessly blend into both sweet and savory dishes.
Hashtags Galore: The trend has taken off on social media platforms, with dedicated hashtags like #cottagecheesecookiedough, #cottagecheeserecipes, and plain #cottagecheese. These hashtags have been used thousands of times, showcasing the widespread adoption of cottage cheese in everyday cooking.
Retailer Demand: It’s not just a TikTok craze; retailers in the UK have reported a significant increase in demand for cottage cheese. Marks & Spencer (M&S) has seen a 30% year-on-year rise in sales, while Waitrose reports a 22% increase1. Robert Graham, managing director of Graham’s Family Dairy, mentioned that cottage cheese sales for their brand have surged by 40% since the TikTok trend began in May of the previous year.
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