If you’re looking for some interesting statistics regarding vegan trends, meat consumption and insights into how much food is wasted, you’ve come to the right place.
Veganism is on the rise worldwide
Though as a collective world, only 1% identify as a vegan, veganism is still on the rise. The numbers differ greatly by region.
9% of the Asia Pacific region reported following a vegan diet, 6% within the Middle East and Africa, and 4% of Latin Americans.
2% of North America reported themselves as vegan, as did 2% of Europe. The math’s confusing, we know.
The world’s growing love for plant-based meat
Plant-based protein market value is growing steadily. From $10.11 billion in 2022, its value grew to $13.1 billion in 2023 (rose by +7%), and is projected to steadily increase to $33.99 billion by 2027.
From 2022, a reported 36% of Veganuary participants continued with the vegan diet after signing up. Lifestyle was a large motivating factor, with 21% taking part for personal health reasons.
Awareness of animal cruelty in the fashion industry
Not every country is as aware as others of animal cruelty in the fashion industry.
- Australia 56%
- Austria 83%
- Bulgaria 66%
- Germany 62%
- Netherlands 75%
- Switzerland 84%
- South Africa 68%
- UK 60%
- US 46%
In 2022, of the countries surveyed, the US was the least aware of the animal cruelty of the industry, at 46%, whilst Switzerland was the most aware, at 84% according to studies.
How many vegan pets are there?*
As of 2019, results showed that 10.4% of dogs and 3.3% of cats are fed an intermittent plant based diet. From the same survey, 1.6% of dogs and 0.7% of cats were reported to follow a “strict plant-based diet”.
*We (Veganisingit) do not advocate for feeding plant-based diets to carnivorous animals.
USA Vegan Facts
The USA is a large country with over 300 million people, one of the biggest collective consumers of meat and dairy products in the world.
How many vegans are there in the USA?
Not all is doom and gloom, though. A survey recently run in 2023 concluded about 3% of US citizens follow a vegan diet, with 5% being vegetarians.
How many animals die for meat in the US?
As of 2024, 42 days into the year, 6,672,619,092 animals have been killed for food in the US alone, that’s 155,177,188 a day.
On an annual basis, 8,127,632,113 chickens, 214,508,816 turkeys and 124,061,094 pigs are killed. 36,163,973 cattle, 23,275,362 ducks, 7,499,676 sheep also are killed yearly for food in the US.
Over 3.7 trillion fish are killed, and over 43.1 trillion shellfish are killed, solely for US consumption, on a yearly basis.
We weren’t joking when we said that they eat a LOT of meat.
Vegans and vegetarians in the US
Although the US is notorious for their meat consumption, their plant-based meat consumption is on the rise.
Broken down by age range:
18-29 years old: vegetarian 7%, vegan 3%
30-49: vegetarian 8%, vegan 4%
50-64: vegetarian 3%, vegan 1%
65+: vegetarian 2%, vegan 3%
In the US, the age range with the most vegans (proportionately) was those aged 30-49. The age range with the least vegans consisted of those aged 50-64.
The rise of plant-based product sales in the US
Plant-based food sales from 2018 to 2022 showed a significant rise in value from $4.8 billion to $8 billion (a 66.6% increase)! Sales value can be summarised below (in millions):
- Milk alternatives $2.8k
- Meat alternatives $1.4k
- Tofu, tempeh & seitan $185
In 2022, there was also a rise in popularity across the following plant-based food categories:
- Creamer +24%
- Butter 15%
- Eggs 14%
- Milk 9%
- Yoghurt 5%
- Tofu, Tempeh & Seitan +4%
Conventional meat and cheese sales dropped in the same year by -1% and -2%, respectively.
Vegan meat substitute consumption is projected to continuously grow, with the US vegan food industry projected to reach $16.3 billion by 2027. This includes plant-based processed and unprocessed foods.
US citizens don’t all have the same motivations, here are some of the most common reasons for those to try meat substitutes.
- 61% motivated by health benefits
- 40% environment
- 38% interest in new products
- 34% animal welfare benefits
- 29% looking for variety in meat-free diets
- 18% food security benefits
- 11% reducing allergies
Vegan meat wasn’t the only plant-based favourite. Vegan milk was another one loved by many, with a generated revenue of $3.6 billion in 2023. A growth of over a billion dollars, forecasted to reach $5.4 billion by 2028.
Vegan statistics in Canada
As of 2024, the total number of reported vegetarians in Canada reached 2.3 million, vegans made up 850,000. The province of Canada with the largest share of vegans and vegetarians is British Columbia.
In a 2020 survey, 4.6% of Canadians were reported to be vegan.
Views of plant-based eating in Canada
In a more generalised study, men and women were asked whether they view plant-based eating as a positive choice.
Females
70% of 18-34 year old Canadian females view vegan eating as positive
60% of 35-54 year old Canadian females view vegan eating as positive
53% of 55+ year old Canadian females view vegan eating as positive
Males
78% of 18-34 year old Canadian males view vegan eating as positive
67% of 35-54 year old Canadian males view vegan eating as positive
68% of 55+ year old Canadian males view vegan eating as positive
In another survey run in 2019, 22% of Canadians surveyed planned to include vegan food in their holiday meal.
Motivations behind eating less meat in Canada
Vegetarians, vegans and flexitarians were surveyed and asked about their motivations behind eating plant-based.
A large motivation to eat vegan was driven by the fear of climate change and for environmental reasons.
Of the participating females, below breaks down the proportion of those doing so for the environment:
67% of women aged 18-34
42% of women aged 35-54
26% of women aged 55+
Of the participating males, the same breakdown:
70% of men aged 18-34
53% of men aged 35-54
28% of men aged 55+
How often Canadians buy vegan and vegetarian foods
Canadians were given multiple choices to fill out regarding how often they bought vegetarian and vegan foods. The results are shown below:
Daily 2.87%
Several times a week 9.19%
Up to 1x a week 10.53%
Several times a month 9.44%
Up to 1x a month 10%
At least 1x every 6 months 6.98%
At least 1x per year 6.6%
Never 44.4%
That 44.4% is a tough crowd ey?
Attitudes towards vegan food in Canada
Customers across demographics were asked whether they would try a plant based patty.
Of which, 67% of those aged 18-34 said yes; 62% of those aged 35-54 said yes; as did 52% of those 55+. This data shows a majority positive attitude towards plant-based alternatives, particularly among the younger generation.
In a 2020 survey, Canadians were asked about their view on plant-based eating, providing insight into the wider population’s thoughts and feelings towards veganism.
Of the survey respondents, 36% were willing to reduce meat consumption, 6.91% do not consume meat, and 30% were “not willing to reduce meat consumption”.
In 2019, survey results also reported 58% of respondents were worried about the increased prevalence of plant-based food due to processing. 26% of Canadians reported having “loved” plant-based meat alternatives.
The rise of plant-based product sales in the Canada
That being said, between 2015 to 2022, meat substitute sales in Canada rose significantly from 2015 to 2022, from 119.9 to 226.7 million! Quite a significant rise in less than a decade!
Milk consumption saw the opposite effect. With the average milk consumption per capita dropping from 70.76 litres, 58.2 litres per capita. Baby steps, baby steps.
Attitudes towards eating less meat in Canada
In 2022, consumers were asked about whether they were eating less meat. On average, 25% of respondents confirmed that they were eating less meat overall, with more detail below:
- 18-19 years 17%
- 20-29 years 21%
- 30-39 years 26%
- 40-49 years 25%
- 50-59 years 29%
- 60-64 years 28%
Of the above age ranges mentioned, those aged between 50-59 were most likely to reduce meat consumption.
Australasia vegan statistics
Vegan product demand in Australasia is on the rise. With over 40% rise in demand for 2022, the following areas saw a rise in demand:
- Restaurant-sourced food and drink 55%
- Supermarkets 52.7%
- Cosmetics and toiletries 47.5%
- Healthcare 43.7%
- Fashion 41.1%
- Household products 40%
Australasia vegan statistics
Vegan product demand in Australasia is on the rise. With over 40% rise in demand for 2022, the following areas saw a rise in demand:
- Restaurant-sourced food and drink 55%
- Supermarkets 52.7%
- Cosmetics and toiletries 47.5%
- Healthcare 43.7%
- Fashion 41.1%
- Household products 40%
Vegans in Australia
According to research, 2% of Australia (500,000 people) were reported to be vegan.
In 2020, a survey was run to discover the main reasons why Australians followed the vegan diet.
The results were as follows:
- Animal welfare 35%
- Health 27%
- Environmentalism 21%
- Religion 4%
- Financial 1%
- Other 11%
The most popular reason why Australians were vegan was for animal welfare purposes.
In another survey, Australian consumers were asked why they consume milk substitutes.
49% of respondents believed it to be a healthier option, whilst only 27% consumed it as a result of an intolerance or allergies.
Vegans in New Zealand
Just under 1% of New Zealand residents are vegan. That said, veganism is on the rise, with a significant amount of people transitioning from vegetarian to vegan, from 2018 to 2021 rising from 10% to 19%.
Europe Vegan Facts
As of 2023, there are an estimated 6.62 million vegans in the European Union, forecasted to rise to 8.25 million by 2033.
In 2019, a survey was run questioning the reasons people choose to go vegan (Respondents could choose multiple answers).
95% of respondents reported it being because of animal welfare, 83.9% because of the environment, and 55.9% because of health reasons.
A surprising 3.8% of Europeans follow a vegan diet due to religious reasons.
European attitudes towards meat reduction
In 2023, European meat consumption (per capita) was 52.1kg. When surveyed regarding their willingness to reduce meat consumption for climate change the results were surprisingly hopeful.
Studies show that 7% of Europeans are already vegan or vegetarian. The same data showed 6% of Europeans are willing to give up meat completely; 55% are willing to eat less meat; whilst 32% answered as “not prepared to reduce” their consumption.
In 2021, a survey was run asking individuals about their likelihood of eating vegan cheese instead of conventional cheese.
- 25% not at all likely
- 23% somewhat likely
- 25% moderately likely
- 16% very likely
- 10 extremely likely
UK vegan statistics
As of 2024, it is estimated that there are around 2.5 million vegans in the UK (or 3.7% of the adult population). Studies show that the number of UK vegans has risen by 1.1 million from 2023 to 2024.
This has seen quite the growth considering in 2019, vegans only made up 2.59% of UK consumers, of those, 0.1% were following a raw vegan diet.
Vegans in the UK, by age group
In 2023, different age groups in the UK were asked if they follow vegan nutrition rules, the results of those who did, were as follows:
- 4% of those aged 18-19 years
- 4% of those aged 20-29 years
- 6% of those aged 30-39 years
- 3% of those aged 40-49 years
- 2% of those aged 50-59 years
- 1% of those aged 60-64 years
Of all age groups surveyed, the highest percentage of vegans were among those aged 30-39 years old, at 6%; The demographic with the lowest percentage of vegans, at 1%, was the age range of 60-64 years old.
When the public was surveyed in 2019 40.7% of respondents perceived vegans as broadly positive, with 49.3% neutral toward the topic. 10% of respondents perceived vegans in a negative light.
UK Reasons for being vegan
In 2021 vegans in the UK were asked why they chose to follow the lifestyle, the respondents could pick multiple answers.
89% of respondents chose to follow to prevent animal cruelty, whilst 88% simply didn’t want to eat animals or animal products.
79% chose to opt for veganism for the environment, whilst 40% of those asked followed for personal health reasons. On average, more women than men were following the diet for health reasons.
Less popular motivations included 6% of respondents were raised vegan as their reason, 4% following someone else and 2% for religious reasons.
Parents & attitudes towards vegan options in schools
Not all parents think introducing vegan options to students in schools is the best idea, but as of 2021, studies show that over ⅔ of parents support school dinners adding vegan options.
With 29.7% of parents completely supporting the concept, and 38.9% of respondents somewhat supporting the idea.
20.8% answered as neutral, and 10.6% claimed to have not that much or no support at all for the idea.
Attitudes towards vegan dog food in the UK
Not everyone will feed their dog vegan food, they are omnivores anyways…
That said, 32% of dog owners surveyed said they would be interested in purchasing dog food if it was good for their dog, and 15.8% had already purchased it and reported their dog enjoying it.
30.4% reported not agreeing with giving a dog vegan food, with 8.4% having already purchased it and their dog not enjoying it.
On the right track…
In 2024, adults in the UK were asked if they plan to stop eating meat, the share of those who plan to are listed below, by generation:
- Generation Z 43%
- Millennials 26%
- Generation X 12%
- Baby Boomers 5%
- Silent Generation 1%
Those who fell off…
Not everyone sticks with the vegan lifestyle for life. In 2019, a survey was run in the UK, asking ex vegans to answer why they chose to stop following a vegan diet.
The leading reason why people chose to abandon the vegan lifestyle was due to inconvenience (lack of choice/availability), for which 29.8% of respondents stated.
22.2% of those surveyed reported reverting to an omnivorous diet for health and other reasons, whilst 3.6% stopped following a vegan diet because of cheese.
Plant based food value in the UK
The UK is the second largest food retail market in Europe, with the value of plant-based foods rising 9% from 2020 to 2022. With plant-based meat being the most developed of all vegan food categories, its value grew by 11% in 2021.
Plant-based milk sales also grew by 24% from 2021 to 2022. The least developed plant-based food category was cream. That said, the market value for plant-based cream grew from 49% between 2020 to 2022.
Nordics vegan facts
Specifically within the Nordic region of Europe, opinions regarding the consumption of vegan food are polarised.
Omnivores are the majority in these Nordic regions:
Norway 80%
Sweden 69%
Denmark 75%
The Nordics’ general attitude towards vegan food options
Norway, Sweden & Denmark were asked: To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements?
“Have no desire to eat more vegan food”
Norway 43%
Sweden 41%
Denmark 45%
“A vegan diet brings too little variation”
Norway 23%
Sweden 30%
Denmark 30%
“Don’t think it tastes any good”
Norway 26%
Sweden 25%
Denmark 27%
Opinions seem a little harsh, but everyone has their reasoning. However, there’s still hope among the Nordic region.
The following (Finland, Sweden, Denmark & Norway) were asked about whether they were willing to stop eating meat. The percentage below indicates those who answered “yes”.
Finland 28%
Sweden 23%
Denmark 18%
Norway 17%
Although over 40% of the Nordic respondents claimed to have “no desire” to eat more vegan food, as of 2023, the plant-based food market is growing regardless.
Revenue of milk substitutes in Nordic countries reached $205.6 million; Revenue of meat substitutes in the Nordic region reached $213.1 million.
Denmark vegan statistics
Sales of plant-based food in Denmark grew by 17% from 2020 to 2022. In fact, the plant-based category sales outpaced that of the equivalent animal products in 2022!
Sweden vegan statistics
In Sweden, the plant based food market grew 0.3% from 2020 to 2022. Swedish consumers are the 3rd highest consumers of plant-based food in Europe.
Despite the slight increase in market growth, Swedish consumers are among the highest per capita plant-based milk consumers, as well as being the 2nd highest consumers of plant-based meat and cheese in the whole of Europe.
Africa vegan statistics & meat consumption facts
We’ll now cover some statistics regarding meat and cheese consumption in African countries.
How much meat is consumed in Africa?
Meat consumption is very much prevalent in Africa, with the average meat supply per capita reaching 16.7kg in 2020, reported to have risen by almost a third from the year 2000 to 2020. This is projected to reduce to 13.0 kg by 2024.
Of the 51 countries surveyed, the top 5 African countries who consumed the most meat were as follows:
- Gabon 67 kg
- Seychelles 62.45 kg
- South Africa 59.76 kg
- Zimbabwe 51.93 kg
- Mauritius 50.55 kg
Of the list, Gabon was the African nation consuming the highest amount of meat at 67kg. These numbers are per capita, per year.
Conversely, the 5 African countries with the lowest consumption of meat per capita:
- Burundi 3.12 kg
- Democratic Republic of Congo 3.25 kg
- Madagascar 5.83 kg
- Nigeria 7.04 kg
- Mozambique 7.55 kg
Burundi consumes the least meat in Africa, at 3.12kg per capita/yearly.
MENA meat and cheese consumption
MENA, otherwise known as the Middle East/North African area of the world, also vary in meat and cheese consumption per country.
Cheese consumption in MENA
In 2021, countries in the Middle East and North Africa were surveyed regarding their cheese consumption.
The top 5 cheese consuming countries in the MENA region were as follows:
- Kuwait 78.5 kg
- UAE 72 kg
- Bahrain 71 kg
- Qatar 68 kg
- Saudi Arabia 61 kg
Kuwait was the nation with the highest cheese consumption within the MENA area.
The countries that consumed the least cheese per capita within the MENA region were as follows:
- Egypt 29.5 kg
- Sudan (former) 22.5 kg
- Algeria 21.5 kg
- Iraq 21.5 kg
- Syria 18.5 kg
The MENA country with the lowest consumption of cheese per capita, was Syria.
Meat consumption in MENA
In 2014, research was run to analyse meat consumption habits in the Middle East and North Africa region.
Results (per capita) were as follows:
- Kuwait 78kg
- UAE 72kg
- Bahrain 71kg
- Qatar 68kg
- Saudi Arabia 61kg
- Libya 50kg
- Jordan 49.5kg
- Oman 47.5kg
- Lebanon 40.5kg
- Morocco 34.5kg
- Iran 34kg
- Tunisia 30.5kg
- Egypt 39.5kg
- Sudan 22.5kg
- Algeria 21.5kg
- Iraq 1.5kg
- Syria 18.5kg
The MENA country that consumes the most meat per capita is Kuwait (78kg), whilst the lowest per capita meat consumption came from Syria (18.5kg).
Vegans and vegetarians in Saudi Arabia
37.5% of Saudi Arabians surveyed claim to follow a vegetarian diet, with 11.3% of that demographic being made up of vegans.
Attitudes towards plant-based substitutes in Saudi Arabia
39% of 30-39 year old consumers surveyed consumed dairy substitutes, with 21% being among the 18-29 age range. 74% of respondents claim to be eating substitutes in an effort to eat healthier.
48% of 30-39 year olds were consumers of meat substitutes, with 17% among the 18-29 age range.
Vegans and vegetarians in UAE
Statistics show an average 3% of UAE citizens are vegan, with 9% being vegetarian.
Attitudes towards plant-based substitutes in UAE
In the emirate region, consumption of plant-based substitutes are on the rise.
The highest demographic of milk substitute consumers in UAE were those aged 30-39, with 42% consumers confirming their consumption of dairy substitutes. 60% of dairy sub consumers were also male.
Health was a large factor in their decision, with 83% of substitute consumers expressing their desire to eat healthier.
The highest demographic of meat substitute consumers among the public was 30 to 39, with 43% of respondents. 63% of respondents claiming to eat meat substitutes were also male.
Egypt Meat & Dairy substitute consumption
A study published in 2023 targeted Egyptian consumers, to gain insight on their consumption of vegan options. Be aware, these aren’t statistics on vegans, but those following any diet and eat meat and dairy substitutes.
Of those surveyed, 26% of meat substitute consumers were between 40-49 years old, and 36% were 18-29.
55% of meat substitute consumers in Egypt are male, and living in urban/city areas. 71% of meat substitute consumers in Egypt follow the belief that food should be fast.
A similar study was run amongst Egyptian dairy substitute consumers.
Amongst the group, 21% of dairy substitute consumers were between 40-49 years old.
51% of dairy substitute consumers were male, to 49% female respondents. Of the respondents, 65% claimed to believe that food should be convenient and fast.
Diets followed in Egypt
There are a wide range of diets people follow around the world, the same can be said for Egypt.
In 2023, a survey was run to see the types of diets Egyptians followed. The results were as follows:
- 33% low carb/no carb
- 25% flexitarian
- 7% lactose free
- 8% gluten free
- 7% pescatarian
- 4% vegetarian
- 4% vegan
- 32% not following any nutrition rules
- 7% “other”
Results from the survey confirmed that 4% of Egyptians are vegan, with 4% also following a vegetarian diet.
Diets followed in Morocco
As of 2023, the majority of the survey respondents in Morocco, 24%, identified themselves as “Flexitarian”. Find a breakdown of the diet types followed in Morocco below:
- 17% Low carb/no carb
- 24% flexitarian
- 7% lactose free
- 10% gluten free
- 6% pescetarian
- 2% vegetarian
- 2% vegan
- 43% don’t follow any nutrition rules
- 10% “Other”
Statistics show that 1.7% of Moroccans are vegan, whilst a further 2% follow a vegetarian diet.
Moroccan cheese consumption and attitudes toward diary alternatives
In 2021, 44% of the average population was confirmed to consume cheese. Of the males surveyed, 41% of them ate cheese in the past 4 weeks, whilst 48% of women had consumed cheese over the past 4 weeks.
That said, the Moroccan public are generally warming up to dairy alternatives. Of those surveyed, 21% of dairy substitute consumers are between 50 and 64, and 31% are between 18-29 years old.
Despite the common misconception, only 40% of dairy substitute consumers in Morocco have a high annual household income.
80% of dairy substitute consumers in Morocco state they’re actively trying to eat healthier.
Meat & dairy substitute consumption in Nigeria
14% of meat substitute consumers are aged 40-49 years old, with a higher percentage, 59% being 18-29 years old.
62% of those consuming meat substitutes are male, and 43%, the majority of meat substitute consumers in Nigeria, are on a high household income.
18% of dairy substitute consumers are among those aged 40-49 years old, whilst 52% are those aged 18-29 years old. 52% dairy substitute consumers are male, and 39% of those same consumers are on a high household income.
Diets followed in Kenya
In 2023, a survey was run to find out more about the average Kenyan consumer and what diets they follow.
Results are below:
- 17% low carb/no carb
- 33% flexitarian
- 8% lactose free
- 10% gluten free
- 6% pescetarian
- 6% vegetarian
- 2% vegan
- 37% not following any nutrition rules
- 5% “Other”
On average, 2% of consumers in Kenya are vegan.
Meat & Cheese substitute consumers in Kenya
Consumers were surveyed in Kenya to gain insight into whether people eat meat and dairy substitutes as part of their everyday life.
Statistics show that 57% of meat substitute consumers in Kenya are male, with 70%, the majority of total meat substitute consumers being aged between 18-29 years old.
A similar survey run concluded that 55% of dairy substitute consumers are male, with 68% of dairy substitute consumers being aged 18-29 years old.
Diets followed in South Africa
In 2023, 19% of South African respondents claimed to be following a flexitarian diet. A summary of the different diets followed can be found below:
- 24% low carb/no carb
- 19% flexitarian
- 12% lactose free
- 10% gluten free
- 3% pescatarian
- 3% vegetarian
- 2% vegan
- 46% doesn’t follow any nutrition rules
- 7% “Other”
Of those surveyed, 2% of South Africans follow a vegan diet, with a further 3% following a vegetarian diet.
Meat & Dairy substitute consumption in South Africa
Regardless of only 6% of South Africans following a vegan or vegetarian diet, consumers still buy meat and dairy alternatives.
45% of dairy substitute consumers are made up of millennials, and 35% of consumers being generation Z. 51% of dairy substitute consumers are male, across all income brackets.
81% of dairy substitute consumers state that they are actively trying to eat healthier, whilst 30% are consumers as a result of innovation and a willingness to try new products.
39% of meat substitute consumers in South Africa are reported to have a high household income, whilst 34% are adopters of new products.
Asia vegan & meat consumption statistics
We’ll now cover some statistics regarding meat and cheese consumption, as well as attitudes towards a vegan lifestyle in Asian countries.
Meat consumption in China
In 2021, China consumed 100 million tonnes of meat, accounting for 27% of the world’s total meat consumption. China is the largest consumer of meat in the world.
That said, when surveyed, 79% of Chinese respondents said they ate meat.
Yulin-specific dog & cat consumption statistics
Although the Western World doesn’t believe in consuming dog or cat meat, within the Yulin region, consumption of dog and cat meat is very much prevalent.
In a 2023 survey, Yulin residents responded to their frequency of dog and cat meat consumption, results summarised below:
- 6.4% eat it once a week
- 17.3% eat it at least once a month
- 72.8% eat it once or several times a year
- 3.5% used to eat it but don’t anymore
In summary, 72,8% of Yulin consumers surveyed were reported to eat dog meat at least once a year.
Vegans & vegetarians in China
In a 2023 study, an estimated 5% of China’s population identifies as vegan or vegetarian. This accounts to around 70 million people.
2024 statistics confirm that generation X makes up 46% of vegans in China, and Generation Z makes up 7%.
51% of vegans in China are male, to 49% female. 21% of vegans surveyed in China claim they have one or more food intolerances.
Meat and dairy substitute consumption in China
Another 2024 study looked into meat and dairy substitute consumers in China. This is not representative of vegans, but those who eat substitutes, which could extend to any consumer.
Dairy substitute consumers tend to be younger, with 49% of consumers being made up of millennials, and 22% being Gen Z. 56% of dairy substitute consumers in China are female, to 44% male.
52% of dairy substitute consumers live in a mega city with over 5 million people; Health and wellness was the main motivation, with 77% claiming to actively try to eat healthily.
Meat substitute consumers in China tend to be younger, with 49% being millennials and 21% being made up of Gen Z.
53% of meat substitute consumers in China are female, and 47% are male. 50% live in mega cities with over 5 million people, showing no significance when comparing urban and rural areas and meat consumption.
Vegetarians in Hong Kong
In 2020, a survey was run, questioning 1000 respondents on their vegan status. 34% claim to adopt a plant-based diet at least once a week, whilst an average 3% of Hong Kong are full-time vegans or vegetarians.
A 2018 survey was exploring the share of vegetarians in different age groups within the Hong Kong region of China.
Results are summarised below:
- 2.2% of 15-19 year olds were reported to be vegetarian
- 2.2% of 20-29 year olds were reported to be vegetarian
- 2.2% of 30-39 year olds were reported to be vegetarian
- 4.1% of 40-49 year olds were reported to be vegetarian
- 5.4% of 50-64 year olds were reported to be vegetarian
In summary, respondents in Hong Kong tend to embrace vegetarianism in their older age, with the highest percentile of vegetarians coming from those aged 50-64 (5.4%).
Meat and dairy substitute consumption in Hong Kong
Everyday consumers in Hong Kong were surveyed on their consumption of meat and dairy substitute products.
51% of meat substitute consumers are male, and 49% are female.
The majority of meat substitute consumers are older, between the ages of 50-64, 14% are made up of Gen Z, and 21% are millennials.
Similar statistics can be said for dairy substitute consumers. 27% are between 30-39, 18% are Gen Z, and 37% are boomers. 56% of dairy substitute consumers are female, 44% male.
54% of substitute consumers have a health-based motivation behind it, with 25% also actively trying to eat less meat.
Vegans in Japan
In a 2021 survey, results concluded that around 2% of the Japanese population follows a vegan lifestyle.
Attitudes towards a vegan diet in Japan
When asked about their willingness to try plant-based protein, Japanese respondents presented polarised results. With only 17.3% of respondents saying they want to eat it, and 30.2% on the fence, saying they “kind of” want to try plant-based protein.
Of the same people asked, 17.7% mentioned not really caring to eat or drink it, and 8.6% returning with a hard no.
That said, not every Japanese consumer is as well informed, with only 2.4% of survey respondents knowing about meat alternatives, with 14.4% not knowing about them at all.
Of those aged 20-29, 64.1% have tried plant-based protein sources, of those over 60, 78.5% have confirmed trying them.
77% of overall Japanese consumers are reported to have tried plant-based milk, whilst 40% have tried plant-based meat. The milk statistics make sense, as the majority of Japan is also lactose intolerant.
Why the Japanese choose to follow a vegan diet
There are various reasons why Japanese consumers would choose to eat vegan options. The most popular reason from 51% survey respondents was the belief that plant-based products were healthier.
46% of those eating vegan food occasionally decided to follow a trend, with 8% actually parking due to their concern for animal welfare.
5% of respondents reported picking plant-based foods as a result of allergies or food intolerances, and from 3% of respondents, it was reported that they view vegan food products as better than non-vegan options.
Progression of the plant-based market in Japan
The main vegetable proteins consumed in Japan are soy and wheat proteins (tofu and seitan), with domestic production surpassing 50,000 tonnes in 2021, a decade high.
Despite the low percentage of those following a plant-based diet in Japan, the overall value of the plant-based food market has grown significantly. Overall growth of the plant-based market in Japan went from 8.9 billion yen in 2015 to 45.3 billion yen in 2023, an increase of 408%!
The value of the plant-based market in Japan is projected to reach 73 billion yen by 2025.
Vegans in South Korea
As of 2021, it was reported that around 2.5 million people were following a vegan diet in South Korea, making up just under 5% of the total population.
This rate has grown significantly as of recently, with a tenfold increase of vegans in South Korea from 2008 to 2018. Between the years of 2018 to 2021, a 67% increase followed.
Attitudes towards veganism in South Korea
When consumers in 2022 were asked about their willingness to try vegan food, those aged 18-29 were a lot warmer to the idea, with 45% of them willing to try vegan foods, compared to 37% of those over 70+. This suggests that as time goes on, the younger generations are more and more likely to try vegan food in South Korea.
South Korean consumers were surveyed on why they chose to buy vegan foods. 38.9% responded that they taste good, 37.7% due to the ease of consumption whilst 19.4% purchased vegan options for the sake of convenience, claiming that they didn’t want to cook.
When asked about the reasons why South Korean consumers didn’t buy vegan foods, 38% were unaware that vegan products were an option, 15% avoided vegan foods due to the price, and 13% were not able to find many vegan options.
When men and women were surveyed on whether they were willing to try vegan foods, females were more warm to the idea than their male counterparts. With 16% males responding yes, to 45% of female respondents.
Vegans in Singapore
Dubbed the most vegan-friendly city in Asia, it’s estimated that 1 in 20 (or 5%) of people surveyed in Singapore are either vegan or vegetarian.
When asked about their reasoning behind following a plant-based diet, 46% of respondents claimed following for health reasons, 24% for environmental reasons, and 18% being concerned over animal welfare.
Meat and dairy substitute consumption in Singapore
Meat and dairy substitute consumption is very prevalent in Singapore, considering the high percentage of vegans and vegetarians in the region this is no surprise.
The most popular demographic of meat substitute consumers in Singapore were between 30-39 years old, with the lowest being among those aged 18-29 (22%). The most popular reasoning behind eating substitutes is the desire to eat healthier, which makes up 66% of consumers.
The most popular demographic of milk substitute consumers were those aged 30-39, with 27% of consumers, compared to the lowest, 25%, being made up of those aged 40-49 and 18-29.
Vegans in Indonesia
In 2022, a survey run in Indonesia confirmed that around 11% of respondents were vegetarian and vegan.
Around 26% of respondents also chose to quit a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle after initially trying them.
Attitudes towards meat and dairy substitute consumption in Indonesia
In 2021, Indonesian everyday consumers were surveyed on how often they eat meat and dairy substitutes.
72% of Indonesian respondents confirmed having tried plant-based foods before, 22% said they don’t consume plant-based products, and 5% aren’t aware of what plant-based foods are.
Of those who do consume plant-based foods, 75% of surveyed females replied “yes”, as did 71% of males surveyed; 23% of males claimed not to have eaten plant-based foods, to 21% of females; Of those who claimed to not know what plant-based foods are, 5% were male and 4% were female.
Meat and dairy substitute consumption in Indonesia
37% of meat substitute consumers in Indonesia are between 30-39, 39% are gen Z and 6% are boomers. 65% of overall meat substitute consumers were female, and 35% male.
Health reasons were a main motivation behind the meat substitute consumption in Indonesia. 83% of consumers in Indonesia claimed to eat meat substitutes for health reasons, with 37% of consumers claiming they were actively trying to eat less meat.
40% of dairy substitute consumers were between 30-39, 31% were gen Z and 8% were boomers. 64% of dairy substitute consumers were female to 36% male.
A large motivation for this was also health reasons, with 84% of dairy substitute consumers actively trying to eat healthier, and 38% trying to eat less meat.
Vegans and vegetarians in India
A survey was run in 2021, confirming that 9% of Indians were following a vegan diet. 24% of total respondents were vegetarians.
Of the vegans in India, 48% of which were millennials, 36% Gen Z and 17% Gen X. 63% of vegans in India were male, and 37% were female.
61% of 16-24 year olds in India surveyed claim to follow a plant-based diet; whilst 70% of 25-34 year olds claim to be plant-based.
Diet and health was a big factor, with 69% claimed to be actively trying to eat healthily, and 23% claiming to have one or more food intolerances.
Of the vegetarians in India, 14% were Gen X, 41% were Gen Z, and 46% were millennials. 61% of vegetarians in India were male, and 39% were female.
Diet and health was another key factor for vegetarianism in India, with 70% actively trying to eat healthier and 20% having one or more food intolerances.
In another survey, 10% of women and 12% of men claimed to not know what plant-based foods are.
Attitudes against a vegan diet in India
Opinions regarding veganism in India are polarised. In a multi-choice survey run in 2021, Indian citizens were questioned on why they don’t consume plant-based food products.
Results summarised below:
- 26% unsure about the ingredients vs original
- 25% find it difficult to source from where they live
- 23% do not see the need towards plant-based alternatives
- 23% claim alternatives cost more than the original
- 20% don’t think vegan alternatives taste as good as the original
- 20% believe plant-based alternatives aren’t as nutritious
The most common reason why Indians choose not to eat vegan foods is due to uncertainty around the sourcing of these alternate ingredients.
Meat and dairy substitute consumption in India
In 2021, consumers were surveyed in India regarding their meat and dairy substitute consumption. The numbers below don’t constitute vegans exclusively, but the wider population of consumers.
The majority of meat substitute consumers in India were of an older age range, with 57% being millennials, and 11% being Gen X, that said, 32% of meat substitute consumers were part of Gen Z.
Health was a huge factor in this decision, with 80% actively trying to eat healthier and 35% having one or more food intolerances.
Dairy substitute consumers are also majority millennials (52%), 13% were Gen X, whilst 35% of dairy substitute consumers being Gen Z. Health was the main motivator behind this once again, with 81% claiming to actively try to eat healthily, whilst 25% have one or more food intolerances.
Vegans in Malaysia
Though there isn’t any specific statistic on the number of vegans in Malaysia, in 2021, 68% of survey respondents claimed to have consumed plant-based food alternatives in the past year.
To break this down further, 73% of those aged 16-24 have consumed plant-based alternatives; 72% of those aged 25-34 and 63% are over 55.
There’s a correlation here, showing that the younger the population of Malaysia gets, the higher the consumption of plant-based foods.
Meat and dairy substitute consumption in Malaysia
85% of survey respondents have consumed milk alternatives, 51% have consumed plant based dairy products (cream, yoghurt, cheese), and 46% have consumed meat alternatives.
Reasoning behind why Malaysian respondents choose to eat plant-based alternatives vary, with 48% believing it’s a healthier alternative; 30% following a vegan diet; 22% having food intolerances or allergies; 23% having concerns over the environment.
Split between genders is fairly equal, with an average 50/50 split between male and female consumers of plant based milk and meat alternatives.
Vegans and vegetarians in the Philippines
Statistics show that 30% of those living in the Philippines follow a vegan or vegetarian diet.
When surveyed in 2021, mixed results came back regarding whether Filipino consumers ate plant-based foods.
A majority responded positively, with 65% responding yes, 25% responding no, and 10.5% unaware of what plant-based foods are.
Reasoning behind plant-based food consumption in the Philippines
When asked about their reasons behind eating plant-based food, 56% did so for health reasons, 41% were concerned regarding animal welfare, and 30% was simply due to their diet.
Looking further, 31% of meat substitute consumers are between 30-39, 50% are 18-29 and 17% are 40-49. 82% of meat substitute consumers actively try to eat healthier, whilst 38% try to eat less meat.
Vegans and vegetarians in Thailand
Vegetarians make up about 8% of Thailand’s population as of 2019, with various thai favourites being naturally vegan.
Attitudes towards plant-based food consumption in Thailand
The majority of dairy substitute consumers in Thailand are female (58%) to males (42%).
The age range with the most plant-based milk consumers was millennials, at 32%; with the lowest percentile being among gen Z, at 20%. Reasons being actively trying to eat healthier (76%) and 49% trying to eat less meat.
Across all age groups, overall, less than 40% of the population eat vegan substitutes. That said, 30% of Thai survey respondents said they eat plant based foods several times a week.
Vegans and vegetarians in Taiwan
As of 2019 statistics, approximately 13-14% of citizens follow a vegetarian diet.
Attitudes towards plant-based food consumption in Taiwan
Consumers were asked about their consumption of meat and dairy substitutes.
Of those aged 50-64, 40% were reported to consume meat substitutes; The same can be said for 19% of those aged 18-29 and 23% of those aged 30-39 years old.
54% of meat substitute consumers were female, with health being a key factor, with 47% of consumers eating meat substitutes for the sake of health and wellness.
The main demographic that made up dairy substitute consumers was those aged 50-64 (39%), followed by 30-39 year olds (23%), then 18-29 year olds (21%).
The majority of milk substitute consumers were also female, at 58% of surveyed consumers. Health was an even bigger motivation for dairy substitute consumers, with 55% actively trying to eat healthier as their reasoning.
Vegans and vegetarians in Vietnam
As of 2011, there were a reported 9 million vegetarians in Vietnam, making up 10% of the population.
Attitudes towards plant-based food consumption in Vietnam
In 2019, Vietnamese consumers were asked about their plant based food consumption.
The main demographic consuming plant-based foods was those aged 25-34 (80%), followed by 16-24 year olds (78%), then those over 55+ (68%).
Females made up the majority (52%) of meat substitute consumers, with 65% of overall consumers choosing to eat meat alternatives for health reasons.
Females also made the majority of milk alternative consumers (52%), with 68% of the overall consumers reporting their preference toward milk substitutes for health reasons.
Vegans and vegetarians in Pakistan
According to statistics, 33.2 million Pakistanis are vegetarian, amounting to around 14% of the population.
Attitudes towards plant-based food consumption in Pakistan
The main motivation behind those who eat less meat in Pakistan is the desire for improved health and longevity, with 80% eating meat substitutes for health reasons.
69% of meat substitute consumers are male, with the main bulk of consumers being gen z (61%), and 33% being gen x.
58% of 19-29 year olds are dairy substitute consumers, with 35% of 30-39 year olds also consuming dairy alternatives. 80% of dairy substitute consumers in Pakistan are actively trying to eat healthy, as their main motivation.
Sources:
statista.com
animalclock.org
vegansociety.com
viva.org.uk
scmp.com
cookunity.com
madeinca.ca
finder.com
researchsquare.com
timeoutabudhabi.com
peta.org