Mozzarella Cheese Cost: A Guide to Prices and Value

Walk into any gourmet shop in the UAE, and you'll see mozzarella prices can swing wildly.You might find a simple block for your weekly pizza for around AED 8 per 100g, while a premium, imported Mozzarella di Bufala can easily top AED 25 for the same amount. What gives? The price tag is a direct reflection of its story—from the type of milk used to its production method and origin.

Decoding Mozzarella Cheese Prices

When you're faced with a dozen different types of mozzarella, the price differences can feel a bit baffling. Why does one pristine white ball of cheese cost three times as much as its neighbour? The answer is a fascinating mix of tradition, biology, and logistics.

Think of it this way: that simple, industrially produced block is engineered for one job—melting perfectly on a pizza. It’s all about consistency and affordability. On the other hand, an artisanal ball of Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP is an experience. It's crafted by hand using the incredibly rich milk of water buffalo from a specific, protected region in Italy. Its higher price reflects that heritage, its superior flavour, and its delicate, one-of-a-kind texture.

Factors Influencing the Market Price

What you pay at the checkout is shaped by both global and local forces. Import data for the UAE shows that the price retailers pay for mozzarella isn't static; it fluctuates quite a bit.

Recent trends show a notable shift in the import market. Prices that once ranged from USD 4.55–7.35 per kilogram have now settled into a tighter band of USD 3.82–5.82 per kilogram. That's a drop of roughly 16% to 21%, which can influence what specialty shops like ours might charge.

This kind of volatility shows just how much things like currency exchange rates, shipping costs, and global supply can impact the final price on the shelf. If you're curious about the broader mechanics of how products are priced, it's worth exploring some general pricing principles that guide retailers everywhere.

To make things simpler, here’s a quick guide to the typical price ranges you’ll find across the UAE. This table breaks down mozzarella costs by type, giving you a clear snapshot of what to expect for different quality levels.

Typical Mozzarella Price Ranges in the UAE (Per 100g)

This table summarises the approximate retail price ranges for different types of mozzarella cheese you'll find in the UAE market, from budget-friendly options to premium artisanal products.

Mozzarella Type	Typical Price Range (AED)	Best For
Low-Moisture Mozzarella (Block)	8 - 14	Pizza, Lasagna, Baked Dishes
Fresh Fior di Latte (Cow's Milk)	12 - 20	Caprese Salad, Fresh Pasta, Sandwiches
Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP	22 - 35+	Standalone Appetiser, Gourmet Pizza
Burrata / Stracciatella	25 - 40+	Salads, Bruschetta, Served Fresh

Ultimately, understanding these tiers helps you choose the right cheese for the right moment. Whether it's a workhorse for a baked pasta dish or a star appetiser, there’s a perfect mozzarella for every budget and occasion.

Getting to Know the Different Types of Mozzarella

Stepping into the world of mozzarella can feel a little overwhelming at first. With so many names and styles, it’s easy to get lost. But understanding the key differences is the secret to choosing the perfect cheese for any dish, and it all comes down to texture, flavour, and how it’s made.

Think of it like selecting a cut of steak. You wouldn't use a prime fillet for a slow-cooked stew, just as you wouldn’t use a firm, low-moisture mozzarella for a delicate Caprese salad. Each type has its moment to shine, and its price tag often reflects its unique purpose. The mozzarella cheese cost is directly tied to this specialisation.

This mind map breaks down the essential factors that shape the price you see, from the type of milk used to where the cheese was made.

As you can see, the final cost is a story in itself. Factors like a protected origin status (DOP) or the use of prized buffalo milk add significant value and, naturally, increase the price.

Fior di Latte: The Everyday Classic

When most of us imagine fresh, pillowy mozzarella, we're thinking of Fior di Latte. Its name beautifully translates to "flower of milk," a nod to its pure cow's milk origins. This is your go-to for an authentic Neapolitan pizza, with its delicate, milky flavour and soft, bouncy texture that melts perfectly.

Because it’s made from cow's milk, which is far more abundant than buffalo milk, Fior di Latte is a more accessible, everyday luxury. It’s a wonderfully versatile cheese that brings that genuine Italian taste to your table without the premium price tag of its famous cousin.

Mozzarella di Bufala: The Luxurious Original

For a truly unforgettable cheese experience, you have to try Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP. This is the real deal—the original that all other mozzarellas aspire to be. Made exclusively from the rich, decadent milk of Italian water buffalo, it has a tangier, more complex flavour and a texture that is unbelievably creamy.

That "DOP" seal isn't just for show; it's a legal guarantee that the cheese was crafted in a specific region of Italy following time-honoured traditions. Water buffalo produce much less milk than cows, and this protected status makes it the most prized—and priciest—variety. It’s a true delicacy, best enjoyed simply to let its incredible flavour shine.

Low-Moisture Mozzarella: The Pizza Workhorse

Have you ever wondered how pizzerias get that perfect, stringy cheese pull without making the crust soggy? Their secret weapon is low-moisture mozzarella. This is a firmer, saltier block-style cheese made from cow’s milk that has been aged a bit longer to reduce its water content.

This lower moisture level is key—it means the cheese grates easily, melts evenly, and turns a beautiful golden-brown without releasing excess water. It's the undisputed champion for New York-style pizza, hearty lasagnas, and baked pasta dishes. As it's designed for high-heat cooking, it’s usually the most budget-friendly option.

Burrata and Stracciatella: The Creamy Indulgences

At the most luxurious end of the mozzarella family, you’ll find Burrata and Stracciatella. Burrata looks like a classic mozzarella ball, but it holds a delicious secret: a centre filled with cream-soaked shreds of mozzarella. When you slice it open, that creamy filling cascades out in the most delightful way.

Stracciatella is the name for that decadent filling itself—shreds of mozzarella lovingly mixed with fresh cream. Both are incredibly rich and best served fresh, paired with simple ingredients like prosciutto, ripe tomatoes, or a drizzle of excellent olive oil. Their intricate, handmade craftsmanship places them at the higher end of the mozzarella cheese cost spectrum.

Comparing Key Mozzarella Varieties

To make it even clearer, here’s a quick comparison of the main players in the mozzarella world. This table breaks down what makes each one unique, from its texture to its best use in the kitchen.

Variety	Milk Type	Texture	Flavour Profile	Primary Culinary Use
Fior di Latte	Cow's Milk	Soft, moist, springy	Fresh, milky, delicate	Neapolitan pizza, Caprese salad, fresh dishes
Mozzarella di Bufala	Water Buffalo's Milk	Very soft, creamy, slightly elastic	Rich, tangy, complex, slightly gamy	Eaten fresh, high-end salads, standalone appetiser
Low-Moisture	Cow's Milk	Firm, dense, slightly rubbery	Salty, mildly milky	New York-style pizza, lasagna, baked pasta, grating
Burrata	Cow's Milk (or Buffalo)	Soft shell with a creamy, shredded interior	Rich, buttery, decadent	Served fresh with bread, prosciutto, or ripe tomatoes
Stracciatella	Cow's Milk (or Buffalo)	Creamy, soupy, shredded	Extra rich, milky, indulgent	Topping for pizzas, bruschetta, or served on its own

Each cheese tells a different story and serves a different purpose. Choosing the right one is all about matching its personality to your culinary creation.

What Really Drives the Cost of Mozzarella Cheese

Ever found yourself in a Dubai gourmet shop, staring at two seemingly identical balls of mozzarella and wondering why their price tags are miles apart? It’s not just a random number. A fascinating mix of factors works behind the scenes to set the final mozzarella cheese cost, from the animal that gives the milk to the long journey it takes to get to your plate.

Understanding what goes into that price tag helps you truly appreciate what you're buying. It's the difference between just seeing a price and understanding the deep-rooted craftsmanship, authenticity, and quality packed into every pristine white ball of cheese.

The Source of the Milk

The single biggest factor dictating the price comes down to the milk itself. It’s a simple case of biology and supply.

• Cow's Milk (Fior di Latte): Cows are absolute powerhouses when it comes to milk production. This makes their milk widely available and much more affordable, forming the foundation for the versatile and beloved Fior di Latte.

• Water Buffalo Milk (Mozzarella di Bufala): Water buffalo, on the other hand, produce far less milk each day. But what their milk lacks in quantity, it more than makes up for in quality—it’s a flavour bomb, containing nearly double the fat and significantly more protein than cow's milk.

This lower yield, paired with a richer, more complex composition, means it takes far more resources to produce a single kilogram of buffalo mozzarella. The result? A creamier, tangier cheese that naturally carries a higher price.

Production Method: Handcrafted vs Machine-Made

Next up is the "how." The journey from milk to cheese plays a massive role in the final cost, highlighting the classic difference between artisanal tradition and industrial efficiency.

A huge industrial facility can churn out massive quantities of mozzarella blocks with incredible consistency and speed, keeping labour costs low. This is perfect for the low-moisture mozzarella you find on pizzas and in baked dishes.

Artisanal production, however, is a true labour of love. It relies on skilled cheesemakers, or casari, who use traditional techniques—often by hand—passed down through generations. This hands-on approach is slower and more intensive, which adds to the price but delivers a product with a completely unique character and a far superior texture.

Origin and Authenticity Seals

Where the cheese comes from matters. A lot. Just like a fine bottle of French wine, a cheese's origin is a stamp of quality and a key driver of its price.

The most prestigious of these is the DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) or "Protected Designation of Origin" seal. This is a legally binding guarantee from the European Union that a product like Mozzarella di Bufala Campana was made in a specific part of Italy, using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients.

This seal doesn't just protect the cheese's heritage; it guarantees its authenticity. That promise of quality and exclusivity naturally adds a premium, setting it apart from generic mozzarella made elsewhere.

The Journey to the UAE: Logistics and Import Costs

Finally, let's talk about the practicalities. Getting fresh, delicate cheese from a farm in Italy to a shelf in Dubai is a costly affair.

Fresh mozzarella is a highly perishable product, which demands a fast, carefully controlled supply chain:

• Specialised Packaging: To keep its moisture and signature flavour, fresh mozzarella is packed in brine or whey, which requires sturdy, perfectly sealed containers.

• Refrigerated Transport: The cheese needs to stay chilled from the moment it leaves the producer until it reaches the retailer, involving expensive refrigerated trucks and air freight.

• Import Tariffs and Fees: Bringing food into the UAE comes with customs duties, taxes, and admin fees, all of which get factored into the final price you see.

These logistical hurdles are essential to ensure the cheese arrives in perfect condition, but they all add to the bottom line. For businesses that rely on mozzarella, keeping an eye on these costs is crucial. Using a restaurant profit margin calculator can help you see exactly how ingredient costs are impacting your profitability.

The demand for authentic products in the UAE is only growing. The UAE cheese market is on an impressive upward trend, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 4.40% through 2030. Mozzarella is leading the charge, becoming the most dominant cheese variety in the region. In fact, within the specialised market of individually quick-frozen cheese, mozzarella claimed an incredible 62.15% revenue share in a recent year, making it both the biggest and fastest-growing segment. You can learn more about the rising popularity of mozzarella in the UAE from IFM Gourmet.

Why Premium Mozzarella Is an Investment in Flavour

Forget the numbers on the price tag for a moment. The real value of a premium mozzarella lies in an experience you just can't quantify—the flavour. The difference between a standard block from the supermarket and a beautiful, hand-crafted ball of cheese isn't just about cost; it's about turning a simple meal into something truly memorable.

Think of it like this: you can have a cup of instant coffee, or you can have a freshly brewed cup from a specialty roaster. Both will give you that caffeine kick, but one is a rich, aromatic experience that awakens all your senses. That’s exactly what premium mozzarella does for your cooking.

The Sensory Jump from Good to Great

The first bite of a high-quality mozzarella tells you everything you need to know. An authentic Mozzarella di Bufala or a carefully made Fior di Latte offers a complex flavour profile that the mass-produced stuff just can't touch.

It begins with a delicate, milky sweetness—a direct result of using incredibly fresh milk. This is followed by a subtle tang and a clean, creamy finish that lingers just enough. The texture is just as crucial: a soft, satisfying springiness that feels both rustic and luxurious. This is the kind of cheese that takes a simple Caprese salad from a starter to the star of the show.

A Culinary Transformation You Can Taste

The real magic of premium mozzarella is how it elevates every dish it touches. Picture a homemade Neapolitan pizza. Sure, a standard, low-moisture block will get the job done. But swapping it for fresh, artisanal Fior di Latte? That changes the entire game.

Instead of just a generic cheesy topping, you get these gorgeous, creamy pools of melted mozzarella that perfectly balance the tangy San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil. The flavour isn't just salty; it's milky, rich, and becomes a core part of the pizza's character. If you're keen on perfecting Italian dishes, you might find some inspiration in our guide to authentic Italian pasta pairings.

This transformative power is why passionate home cooks and professional chefs don't see artisanal mozzarella as an expense, but as a critical ingredient. It's the secret weapon for creating those unforgettable food moments that make cooking so rewarding.

This love for quality cheese is also reshaping local food culture. In the UAE, mozzarella's popularity is booming, partly due to the huge influence of Western food—especially pizza—but also because it’s finding its way into modern Emirati dishes and is a staple for the growing number of gourmet fast-food spots.

So, Why Is the Investment Worth It?

When you choose a premium mozzarella, you’re buying more than just cheese. You’re investing in:

• Authenticity: A DOP seal isn’t just a sticker; it's a guarantee that you're tasting tradition, made using methods perfected over generations.

• Superior Ingredients: Exceptional milk, whether from pampered water buffalo or local dairy cows, is the foundation of incredible flavour.

• Unmatched Texture: That creamy, elastic, and milky feel of fresh mozzarella is something processed cheese simply can't replicate.

• Culinary Impact: It has the power to be the standout component of a dish, not just a forgotten ingredient in the background.

Ultimately, while the initial cost might be higher, the return comes in the form of richer flavours, better textures, and more impressive meals. It's about choosing quality over quantity and realising that sometimes, one exceptional ingredient is all it takes to make a dish truly special. For anyone who values taste, it’s an investment that pays delicious dividends, every single time.

How to Buy and Store Mozzarella Like an Expert

Bringing home the perfect mozzarella is only half the battle. If you want to enjoy every last bite at its peak, you need to know how to choose it and—just as importantly—how to store it.

With a few simple tricks up your sleeve, you can protect your investment and make sure that gorgeous cheese delivers the exact culinary experience you paid for. It’s all about getting the best value, and a higher mozzarella cheese cost is only justified if you can preserve its incredible quality.

This practical advice will help you navigate the delicatessen with confidence and keep your cheese tasting as fresh as the day it was made.

Smart Shopping Tips for the Best Mozzarella

Your journey to deliciousness begins right at the store. Knowing what to look for is the key to selecting a cheese that lives up to your expectations.

• Check the Date Immediately: This is non-negotiable, especially for fresh varieties like Fior di Latte or Mozzarella di Bufala. Freshness is everything, so always grab the package with the longest possible shelf life.

• Inspect the Brine: Take a look at the liquid in the container. It should be slightly cloudy but clean. If it looks overly milky or yellowish, that’s a red flag—it could mean the cheese is old and starting to break down.

• Look for the DOP Seal: Investing in the real deal? If you're buying genuine Mozzarella di Bufala Campana, look for the official red and yellow DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) seal. This is your guarantee of authenticity.

• Read the Ingredients: High-quality fresh mozzarella has a wonderfully short ingredient list: milk, rennet, and salt. That's it. Fewer additives usually mean a purer, more authentic flavour.

Following these simple steps will help you avoid disappointment and ensure you bring home a cheese that's truly worth its price.

Proper Storage to Preserve Flavour and Texture

Once you've got your prized cheese home, proper storage is what stands between you and a perfect culinary moment. Different types of mozzarella need different care.

A classic mistake is to drain the brine from fresh mozzarella right away. Don't do it! That liquid is essential for keeping the cheese moist, salty, and full of flavour. Always store fresh balls in their original brine until you're ready to use them.

For fresh mozzarella like Fior di Latte or Bufala, pop the sealed container in the coldest part of your fridge. Once you open it, try to use it within a day or two for the absolute best taste and texture. If you have leftovers, keep them submerged in the brine inside an airtight container.

For low-moisture blocks, life is much simpler. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in its original packaging to stop it from drying out. This type of cheese is far more forgiving and can last for several weeks in the fridge.

To Freeze or Not to Freeze

This question comes up all the time, and the answer really depends on what kind of mozzarella you have.

1. Fresh Mozzarella (Fior di Latte, Bufala, Burrata): Please, do not freeze this. The high water content creates ice crystals that will completely ruin the cheese's delicate, springy texture. Once thawed, it turns into a watery, crumbly mess.

2. Low-Moisture Mozzarella: Yes, you can freeze it! The best way is to grate the block first, then pop it into an airtight freezer bag. It’s perfect for having pizza-ready cheese on hand, and its amazing melting qualities will be pretty much unaffected.

Finding Dubai's Finest Mozzarella at IFM Gourmet

So, we've journeyed through the world of mozzarella, from understanding how milk and production methods shape its character to what makes a truly premium cheese sing on your palate. Now for the best part: finding a trusted source in the UAE that lives and breathes these qualities.

This is where a specialist purveyor makes all the difference. For home chefs and food lovers, choosing the right place is about more than just buying cheese. It’s about finding someone who understands the story behind it, ensuring the mozzarella cheese cost is a true reflection of its flavour, craftsmanship, and value.

Your Invitation to True Italian Flavour

At IFM Gourmet Dubai, we see cheese as an experience. As the luxury online gourmet arm of IFM Investments LLC and part of the broader Italian Food Masters group, our store offers an impressive lineup of artisanal delicacies. We don’t just sell products; we share our passion for culinary elegance, from sweets and savories to fine chocolates, premium teas, cakes, and beautifully curated gift hampers.

Our mozzarella selection is hand-picked from respected Italian producers who share our obsession with quality. Each ball of cheese is chosen to deliver a genuine taste of its homeland, making IFM Gourmet the definitive stop for anyone looking to elevate their cooking. It’s the secret to transforming a simple meal into something truly exceptional—like achieving that perfect, creamy melt on a gourmet pizza.

Choosing a specialty store like IFM Gourmet is an investment in authenticity. You're not just buying cheese; you’re bringing a piece of Italian culinary heritage into your home, curated by experts who are passionate about sharing the best of Italy with Dubai.

Our Unwavering Commitment to You

Ultimately, knowing what drives the mozzarella cheese cost empowers you to choose wisely. It shifts your focus from the price tag to the incredible journey that product took to get from a pasture in Italy to your plate in Dubai.

We’ve done the hard work for you. Our reputation is built on an unwavering promise of quality and authenticity. When you select a mozzarella from our collection, you can trust it meets the highest standards of flavour and tradition. That commitment makes us the ideal partner for anyone serious about creating incredible food. ✨

Your Mozzarella Questions, Answered

Stepping into the world of authentic Italian cheese can bring up a few questions, especially when you're trying to figure out the story behind the price tag. Let's clear up some of the most common queries about mozzarella, so you can make choices that are both confident and delicious.

What’s the Real Cost Difference Between Cow and Buffalo Milk Mozzarella?

It all comes down to the source. A water buffalo gives far less milk each day than a cow does, but what it does produce is incredibly rich in both fat and protein.

This means it simply takes more milk and more effort to produce 1kg of Mozzarella di Bufala compared to 1kg of cow's milk mozzarella (Fior di Latte). That lower yield is what makes it a premium product. For those who love its tangy, creamy character, the extra cost is absolutely worth it.

Do I Always Need the Most Expensive Mozzarella for Pizza?

Not at all. The "best" mozzarella is really about the kind of pizza you're crafting.

If you’re aiming for a classic Neapolitan pizza, then yes, a high-quality fresh Fior di Latte or a real Mozzarella di Bufala is non-negotiable for that signature milky flavour and perfect melt. But for a New York-style slice or something you're baking in a home oven, a low-moisture mozzarella block is your best friend. Its lower water content is key to avoiding a soggy base and getting that gorgeous, even browning. It might be less expensive, but a good quality block is the secret to that classic, stretchy "cheese pull."

How Can I Spot Authentic Italian Mozzarella in the UAE?

Your best clues are on the packaging. For the king of mozzarellas, Mozzarella di Bufala Campana, keep an eye out for the 'DOP' (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) seal.

This seal is a guarantee from the European Union that the cheese was made following strict traditional methods in a specific part of Italy, using milk from local water buffalo. For other fantastic cheeses, check for the producer's name and where it was made. Of course, shopping at a trusted specialist store like IFM Gourmet is another way to be sure you're getting the real deal, sourced directly from respected artisans.

An authentic DOP seal is so much more than a sticker; it's a promise of heritage. It tells you that the cheese in your hand is a true piece of Italian culinary tradition, and that’s why it commands a higher place on the mozzarella price spectrum.

Can I Freeze Fresh Mozzarella to Use Later?

You can, but I wouldn't recommend it. Freezing really messes with the texture of fresh mozzarella. As ice crystals form, they break down that delicate, springy structure.

Once thawed, the cheese often becomes watery and crumbly—a shadow of its former self. Fresh mozzarella is meant to be eaten fresh, plain and simple. If you absolutely have to freeze it, make sure you use it in cooked dishes like a lasagna or a baked pasta, where the textural changes won't be nearly as noticeable.

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Ready to experience the authentic taste of Italy for yourself? Explore our hand-picked selection of artisanal mozzarella and other gourmet delicacies at IFM Gourmet Food Store. Discover our collection and elevate your culinary creations today!