Food Chain - Issue 213 - August 2026 | Page 65

____________________________________________________ Hispanic
Cheese Makers-Nuestro Queso, LLC

Not so long ago, Hispanic cheese was widely seen as a niche category, tucked into a small corner of the dairy aisle. However, this changed significantly when Oaxaca saw dollar sales climb more than 13 percent in 2025. The growth rate of this stretchy, meltable staple of quesadillas and tacos meant sales even overtook mozzarella – the long-standing king of melty cheese. What’ s more, Cotija is also nudging its way onto mainstream menus, as chefs reach for its bold, salty bite in place of Parmesan. With the data showing that Hispanic cheese has crossed over and sits more prominently alongside commonplace cheeses, the demand certainly shows no sign of slowing. For Hispanic Cheese Makers-Nuestro Queso, LLC it’ s a welcome shift but it isn’ t a surprise. It’ s the exact moment the Illinoisbased manufacturer has spent over fifteen years preparing for. Formed in 2009, the company’ s mission has always been the same:‘ to delight customers with the highest quality, most authentic Hispanic cheese and dairy products,’ as stated by CEO Mark Braun on its website. Hispanic Cheese Makers, is a private brand and co-packing cheese manufacturer, serving national retailers, distributors and manufacturers. Producing an assortment of authentic Mexican, Caribbean cheeses and Mexican and Central American sour creams, the SQF Level 3 certified business is also committed to sustainability and animal welfare.

With an extensive product range reflecting the diversity of the markets it serves, Hispanic Cheese Makers’ Mexican line includes Fresco, Oaxaca, Cotija, Panela and Quesadilla cheeses alongside Crema Mexicana, while its Caribbean and Central American lines comprise of Blanco, Para Freír, and Central American crema. Extending its authenticity further afield proves the group’ s portfolio isn’ t simply about volume – it’ s about honoring the specific culinary traditions rooted in every cheese. Alongside
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