As per Eurostat's information, Germany was the largest cheese producer in the European Union in 2022, accounting for 22% of the total production, according to new data from Eurostat. France ranked second, representing 18% of the total, and Italy was in third place.

Overall, over 10.4 million tons of cheese were produced in the European Union last year, according to the data.

Farms in the European Union produced 160 million tons of raw milk in 2022, a decrease of 0.3% compared to the previous year.

The vast majority of raw milk (149.9 million tons) was delivered to milk factories, the data shows, with the rest being used directly on farms.

So, who's the "big cheese"? Let's take a look at the top 10 cheese-producing countries in Europe, based on their production in 2022. Here are the Top 10 Cheese Producers in Europe:

1. Germany

2.334 million tons

At the head of the pack, Germany dominated European cheese production last year with a substantial output of 2.334 million tonnes. Germany was also the largest producer of drinking milk and butter in the EU last year, accounting for 19% and 20% of the respective total.

2. France

1.909 million tons

With a long tradition of dairy products, France secured second place with a production of 1.909 million tonnes, highlighting its rich tradition of cheese craftsmanship.

3. Italy

1.359 million tons

Famous for its various varieties of cheese, Italy ranked third, producing 1.359 million tons of cheese in 2022.

4. The Netherlands

973,580 tons

The Netherlands demonstrated its dairy production prowess by securing fourth place, contributing significantly with a cheese production of 973,580 tonnes.

5. Poland

925,740 tons

Poland's production reached 925,740 tons last year, being the fifth producer in the European Union.

6. Spain

538,210 tons

With a production of 538,210 tonnes, Spain was the sixth largest producer of cheese in the EU last year.

7. Denmark

466,500 tons

Renowned for its dairy products, Denmark's cheese production was 466,500 tonnes last year, making it a key contributor to the European cheese market.

8. Ireland

282,500 tons

Ireland, another country known for its dairy heritage, ranked eighth, with cheese production of 282,500 tonnes last year.

9. Greece

242,860 tons

Greece, the feta's homeland, produced 242,860 tons of cheese last year, making it a major producer in the European Union.

10. Austria

222,660 tons

Austria completes the top ten with a production of 222,660 tonnes of cheese last year.

Other notable countries include the Czech Republic (175,030 tonnes), Belgium (119,680 tonnes), Romania (102,790 tonnes), Bulgaria (97,600 tonnes) and Lithuania (93,980 tonnes).