Halloumi, the semi-hard cheese originating from Cyprus, has gained immense popularity worldwide, and numerous brands have emerged to offer their unique take on this squeaky delight. From authentic, traditionally crafted halloumi to innovative variations with added seasonings, there's a plethora of options to suit every palate. Whether you prefer locally sourced brands with artisanal flair or international names that dominate the store shelves, our curated list below will guide you to the best selections on the market. Discover the brands that stand out for their quality, flavor, and texture below.
Illustration of halloumi
Best brands of halloumi in 2025
Cyprus Village
Cyprus Village is not specifically mentioned as one of the best producers of halloumi in the provided sources, but key players in the halloumi cheese industry include Petrou Bros Dairy Products Ltd., Zita Dairies Ltd., and Hadjipieris Ltd., all based in Cyprus. These companies have contributed to the significant growth in halloumi exports, with Cyprus halloumi exports yielding EUR270 million in 2020 and the global halloumi market projected to reach $737 million by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 10%. The exports of Cyprus halloumi have shown a steady annual increase of 20-22%, with a 43% increase in volume from 2017 to 2019. Halloumi is now a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product, ensuring its authenticity and quality. This designation has helped in boosting exports, with halloumi being exported to over 50 countries, primarily to the UK, Sweden, Germany, Australia, Austria, Denmark, and Poland.
Pittas Halloumi
Pittas Dairy Industries, a prominent player in the halloumi cheese market, is recognized for its high-quality halloumi products, which have contributed significantly to global market growth. In 2023, the conventional halloumi cheese segment, dominated by brands like Pittas, accounted for 70.6% of the market share, with production reaching 480 metric tons and a presence in over 50,000 retail stores worldwide. The brand's products are popular due to their unique grilling properties and cost-effectiveness, being 15% cheaper than organic alternatives. Pittas Dairy Industries is among the key companies driving the market's anticipated CAGR of 8.5% from 2024 to 2032, with the global halloumi cheese market projected to reach USD 1,183.0 million by 2032. The increasing demand for halloumi, particularly in Mediterranean and Western cuisines, further solidifies Pittas Dairy Industries' position as a leading producer.
Zita Dairies
Zita Dairies is a prominent producer of halloumi cheese, renowned for its high-quality and authentic products. As a key player in the halloumi cheese market, Zita Dairies contributes significantly to the industry's growth, with the global halloumi market projected to reach $737.0 million by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 10.0%. The company benefits from the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status granted by the European Union, ensuring the cheese's traditional recipe and quality are maintained. Zita Dairies, along with other major players, captures nearly 22% of the market share, highlighting its competitive edge in the industry. The brand's emphasis on authenticity and quality has helped it carve out a strong presence in Europe and other global markets.
G.& I Keses Dairy Products
G.& I Keses Dairy Products is renowned for producing high-quality halloumi cheese, made traditionally by hand from a mix of sheep's and goat's milk, with no additives or preservatives. Their halloumi is crafted in the traditional half-circle shape using straw containers and stored in natural juices with salt-water. The company has received several accolades, including the First Prize of Progress Achievement in 1982 and the Quality Prize in 1995. The milk used is from selected free pasture herds, ensuring the finest quality. Despite challenges in meeting the PDO agreement's milk quotas, G.& I Keses continues to maintain its traditional methods.
Kefalotyri Cheese
Kefalotyri Cheese, although not a producer of halloumi, is often compared to it due to its similar origins and characteristics. However, for halloumi, brands from Cyprus are renowned for their quality. Halloumi cheese, traditionally made from a blend of sheep's and goat's milk, has seen significant global growth, with annual production surpassing 450,000 tons and exports from Cyprus reaching over 17,000 metric tons in 2023, generating approximately EUR200 million in revenue. For an in-depth analysis of the halloumi cheese market's future prospects, check out the Halloumi Cheese Market report by Astute Analytica.
Olympus Cheese
Olympus Halloumi Cheese, produced from a blend of sheep's and goat's milk, is renowned for its high quality and adherence to traditional Cypriot recipes. This semi-hard, unripened cheese is characterized by its unique ability to retain its shape when grilled or fried, making it a favorite among chefs and consumers. With the global halloumi market expected to surpass $1.183 billion by 2032, Olympus Halloumi stands out due to its rich, salty, and tangy flavor profile. In 2021, global halloumi production reached 97 million pounds, with Cyprus, the largest producer, exporting over 30,000 tons worldwide. The European Union's Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status for halloumi, granted in April 2021, ensures that Olympus Halloumi meets stringent quality standards. For those looking to indulge in this premium cheese, it is available online through Joe's Produce.
Dodoni
Dodoni, though not specifically mentioned in the provided sources, is often recognized as a prominent brand in the dairy industry, particularly for its high-quality cheese products. However, for halloumi cheese, the market is dominated by Cypriot producers due to its protected designation of origin (PDO) status granted by the European Union in 2023. The global halloumi cheese market, valued at USD 446.51 million in 2023, is expected to grow at an 11.1% CAGR from 2024 to 2032, with conventional halloumi remaining the top choice among consumers. For more details on Dodoni's cheese offerings, visit their official website.
Kolios
Kolios S.A., a renowned Greek dairy company since 1948, is one of the leading producers of high-quality halloumi cheese, known for its authentic Greek taste and traditional production methods. As one of the most dynamic Greek food companies, Kolios has established itself as a significant player in the global halloumi market, contributing to the growing demand for this versatile cheese. The company's expertise and modern facilities make it one of the best-equipped dairies in Europe. Kolios's commitment to quality has earned it a strong presence in the market, particularly in regions where halloumi's popularity is on the rise, such as the UK and other European countries. With the global halloumi market projected to grow significantly, Kolios is well-positioned to meet the increasing demand.
Alambra Dairies
Alambra-Petrou Bros Dairy Products Limited is a leading company in Halloumi cheese production and exports, boasting over 30% of the total market share and 39 years of experience. The company operates two modern Halloumi production lines, handling over 100 million liters of raw milk annually with a workforce of 220 employees. Alambra Halloumi is exported to 40 countries worldwide, adhering to high-quality procedures certified by BRC, IFS, FSSC 22000, FDA, and HALAL. Since October 2021, their Halloumi range has been under the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) logo, ensuring authenticity and quality. Alambra produces the largest Halloumi range, including various sorts like Plain, Premium, Sliced, and more.
Halloumi Meze
Halloumi Meze, though not specifically highlighted as a brand in the provided sources, can be inferred as a quality producer given the general trends in the halloumi cheese market. The global halloumi cheese market, which includes brands like Meze Foods, is projected to reach $1.18 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8.5% from 2024-2032. The matured halloumi segment, which often features in such brands, accounted for 57.1% of the market share in 2023 and is expected to register a CAGR of 8.3% during the forecast period. Plain halloumi, another popular type, held a 45.4% market share in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 8.7%. The increasing demand for halloumi, driven by its unique culinary properties and health-conscious consumer trends, positions brands like Meze Foods for significant growth. For more information, check out their Meze Foods Halloumi Cheese with Mint.
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