India Leads the World in Meat-Free Diets, New Survey Reveals
A recent Statista Consumer Insights survey highlights India as the world leader in adopting meat-free diets, with four out of ten Indians identifying as either vegetarian or vegan.
This rate is significantly higher than that of other countries in the top ten list, which notably excludes Germany and the Netherlands. The survey, conducted across multiple countries with between 2,000 and 10,000 respondents aged 18-64, spans from 2023 to 2024.
Statista’s data revealed that only 10% of respondents in both the UK and the U.S. claim to follow a meat-free diet, despite rising interest in veganism.
South Africa follows India, with 11% of its population reported to be vegetarian or vegan, a trend likely fueled by increased awareness of health and environmental benefits.
ProVeg South Africa noted a rise in plant-based dishes on menus by 16.67%, although they still account for less than 5% of total offerings.
Interestingly, only 9% of respondents in China identified as vegetarian or vegan, despite the country’s long history of plant-based protein use. Meanwhile, France—where meat and dairy are cultural mainstays—reported that only 8% of the population adheres to a meat-free diet.
The survey results for Finland and South Korea stand at 6% each, while Brazil and Mexico both report a meat-free population of 5%.
India’s long-standing tradition of vegetarianism, prominent among communities like the Jains, Brahmins, and Vaishnavas, plays a major role in shaping its diet landscape.
According to the World Atlas, 38% of Indians identify as vegetarians, with the country’s vegan market projected to reach $3.47 billion by 2032, growing at an annual rate of 10.04%.
Veganuary India has noted record participation, with 70% of Indians believing their country’s cultural heritage can foster veganism’s growth.
With 40% of Indian households that try plant-based meats also opting for plant-based dairy, consumer habits are evidently shifting.
Explore our homepage to discover more about meat-free diets and the cultural shifts driving vegetarianism in countries like India.