Despite the UK now making over 700 different cheeses, cheddar continues to be the most popular – with 86% of households picking it up off the shelves.

Soft cheeses such as Brie and Camembert, along with hard continental cheeses, are increasingly popular – up over 6% in the first half of 2018.

AHDB’s analyst Amey Brassington said: “Whatever your preference, what’s clear is that despite calls by a minority to reduce dairy intake, cheese is considered a staple food in the UK. According to Mintel, nearly 90% of consumers eat cheese every month and two-thirds eat cheese at least twice a week.”

According to Kantar Worldpanel, almost 99% of the population bought cheese at least once in the 52 weeks to July 2018, with value sales up 3.7% during this period, making it a strong year for cheese.