Production data for Pecorino Romano PDO in the 2023-2024 season indicate robust stability and set an optimistic outlook for domestic and international markets. This year, 297 million liters of sheep’s milk were collected, marking an 11.56% increase from the previous season. Of this, 229 million liters (77%) were converted into Pecorino Romano PDO, totaling 392,000 quintals—up 7.1% year-on-year—with a market value surpassing €600 million.
U.S. DEMAND FUELS GROWTH
“Despite the rise in production, our cheese is expected to meet market demand comfortably, bolstered by increased interest from the U.S. market, which continues to offer substantial growth potential,” says Gianni Maoddi, President of the Consortium for the Protection of Pecorino Romano. “Demand has evolved from primarily industrial use to include significant retail channels. Pecorino Romano PDO is enjoying an exceptional season,” notes Maoddi. “It has been rediscovered not just as a staple in classic dishes—such as Carbonara, Amatriciana, CacioePepe, and Gricia—but also as a stand-alone delicacy. It features prominently in appetizers and aperitifs and is crucial for the sauces and condiments market, with increasing demand from younger consumers.”
MARKET DISTRIBUTION OF PECORINO ROMANO PDO
The Italian market absorbs 40% of the product, while the U.S. takes 35%, Europe 16%, and the rest of the world 9%. From January to July 2024, U.S. sales surged by 25.6%, reaching nearly 80,000 quintals—up from 63,000 quintals in the previous season, an increase of around 17,000 quintals. Maoddi attributes this growth to price stabilization and enhanced product availability.