Leena Watts
Vegetarianism is on the rise, with an estimated 1.5 billion vegetarians worldwide, and 15.48 million adults in the US alone. People adopt vegetarian diets for a variety of reasons, including health, environmental, ethical, religious, and economic factors. While vegetarian diets can be highly beneficial, they require careful planning to ensure nutritional needs are met. This is especially important for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and for children. Well-planned vegetarian diets can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, support weight loss, and improve overall diet quality.
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What You'll Learn
Global spending on plant-based foods
There is a growing trend of veganism and flexitarianism, and a rising consumption of dairy and meat substitutes, which are key factors driving the global plant-based food market. The global market for plant-based foods was valued at USD 44.68 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.70% from 2023 to 2030, reaching USD 108.30 billion.
The highest share of the plant-based food market is anticipated to be in North America, due to factors such as increased consumer awareness of the importance of protein-rich diets, a well-established food sector, and higher technological developments in the food and beverage business. The global plant-based food market is also influenced by consumer concerns about animal cruelty and the environmental impact of the food industry.
According to the Plant Based Foods Association, U.S. retail sales of plant-based foods increased by 6.2% in 2021 compared to 2020, bringing the total plant-based market value to $7.4 billion. This growth is particularly significant considering the challenges presented by the pandemic and supply network disruptions. The resilience of plant-based foods illustrates strong consumer interest in foods that align with their values and expectations for sustainability and social justice.
While plant-based diets are promoted as healthier and more sustainable, they can sometimes be perceived as more expensive. However, studies have shown that consumers who follow a plant-based diet may end up spending less on food consumed at home and away from home. For example, in Portugal, a one-unit increase in the frequency of vegetarian meals is associated with a decrease in the probability of spending lower amounts on food.
The plant-based food market has enormous potential, and manufacturers are investing rigorously in research and development to introduce novel plant-based food products that meet consumer needs and expectations.
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Percentage of vegetarians by region
Vegetarianism is increasing slowly in several developed economies, such as Europe and the United States. However, it is declining in large emerging economies such as India, where traditional diets are becoming less popular.
India
India has the highest percentage of vegetarians in the world, with 38% to 39% of the total population being vegetarian. The percentage of vegetarians varies by region and religion. North Indian Hindus have the highest percentage of vegetarians at 71%, followed by Central Indians at 61%, West Indians at 57%, South Indians at 30%, Northeast Indians at 19%, and East Indians at 18%. The Bishnoi community is 100% vegetarian, followed by the Swaminarayan community, Brahmins, and the Arya Samaj community. Other communities with a high percentage of vegetarians include the Jains (92%), Jats (75%), Sikhs (59%), and Hindus (44%). However, it is important to note that the percentage of vegetarians in India may be lower, as some surveys suggest that social reluctance to admit to meat consumption could inflate the numbers.
Europe
In Europe, Italy has one of the highest rates of vegetarianism, with 10% of the population being vegetarian. The United Kingdom has an estimated 9% vegetarian population, with twice as many vegetarian women as men. Germany and Austria also have a 9% vegetarian population each. Ireland has 5% vegetarians, and this number is growing, with Dublin and Cork at the forefront of the vegan movement.
Other Regions
In the Africa/Middle East region, 16% of the population is vegetarian, making it the second-most vegetarian region after Asia. Within this region, Israel has an estimated 5% to 8% vegetarian population, depending on the source. In South America, Brazil has an 8% vegetarian population, with several metropolises offering numerous vegan establishments. In North America, Canada has 4.6% of its population embracing a plant-based lifestyle, with Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal offering many vegan-friendly spots.
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Common reasons for vegetarianism
A vegetarian diet is one that does not include meat or seafood. However, vegetarianism comes in many forms, and some people may include eggs and dairy foods, while others may not.
There are many reasons why someone might choose to adopt a vegetarian diet. Here are some common reasons:
Health
Vegetarian diets are associated with a number of health benefits. Research has shown that vegetarians tend to have a higher intake of several key nutrients and a lower intake of saturated fat and cholesterol. Vegetarianism has been linked to reduced cancer risk, improved blood sugar, and better heart health. A Mediterranean eating pattern, which features an emphasis on plant foods with sparing use of meat, is known to be associated with a longer life and a reduced risk of several chronic illnesses.
Environmental Concerns
Livestock production increases greenhouse gas emissions, contributes to climate change, and requires large amounts of water, energy, and natural resources. A plant-based diet can help reduce the environmental impact of food production.
Animal Welfare
Some people choose to avoid eating meat due to ethical concerns about animal rights and the use of antibiotics and hormones in livestock.
Religious or Personal Beliefs
Some people may adopt a vegetarian diet due to religious or personal beliefs. For example, certain religions may encourage a plant-based diet or discourage the consumption of certain types of meat.
Economic Factors
Vegetarian diets can also be more affordable than diets that include meat. This may be a factor for people who cannot afford to eat meat regularly.
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Nutritional deficiencies
A vegetarian diet, when well-planned, can meet all nutritional needs and provide health benefits. However, it is important to be aware of potential nutritional deficiencies that can occur if a vegetarian diet is not thoughtfully planned.
Vegetarians are at a higher risk of deficiencies in protein, calcium, iron, iodine, and vitamin B12. These deficiencies can lead to serious health issues such as fatigue, weakness, anaemia, bone loss, and thyroid problems. Vitamin B12, essential for growth, repair, and general health, is only found naturally in animal products. Vegetarians who consume dairy and eggs are likely to get enough, but those who avoid all animal products need a reliable source of this vitamin in their diet. Similarly, vegetarians are more likely to have lower iron stores, and need to ensure they are getting enough through other sources.
Other essential nutrients that may be lacking in a vegetarian diet include vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily found in oily fish, are important for maintaining a healthy heart and reducing the risk of heart disease. While there are vegetarian sources of omega-3, evidence suggests they may not have the same benefits as those in fish.
It is important to note that a well-rounded vegetarian diet, with a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts, can be healthy and nutritious. However, special care should be taken during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and with children on vegetarian diets to ensure they are getting all the essential nutrients necessary for healthy growth and development.
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Health benefits
A well-planned vegetarian diet can provide all the essential vitamins and minerals necessary for a long and healthy life. It can meet all a person's nutritional needs if thoughtfully planned. A vegetarian diet is typically high in iron from plant foods, and combining non-haem iron-containing foods with foods high in vitamin C and food acids helps the body absorb the iron. Vegetarians tend to consume less saturated fat and cholesterol and more vitamins C and E, dietary fibre, folic acid, potassium, magnesium, and phytochemicals (plant chemicals) such as carotenoids and flavonoids.
Population studies have associated higher intakes of vegetarian foods with positive skin health. These foods are rich in plant defence chemicals called polyphenols, as well as skin-supportive nutrients like vitamins C and E. There may be further benefits for skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis, as well as skin ageing.
Vegetarian diets are also associated with a reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, hypertension, dementia, and cancer. Studies have confirmed a protective effect of vegetarian diets for the prevention of diabetes and reductions in weight, blood pressure, glycosylated haemoglobin, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
In addition, a vegetarian diet is likely to be healthier for the environment as it uses fewer natural resources and is associated with less environmental damage.
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Frequently asked questions
A vegetarian diet is associated with a number of health benefits, including reduced risk of chronic diseases, lower rates of illness and death from some degenerative diseases, lower blood pressure, reduced cancer risk, improved blood sugar, and better heart health.
There are several forms of vegetarianism, each with different restrictions. Some of the most common types are:
- Lacto-ovo-vegetarian: People who do not eat meat or seafood but include dairy and eggs.
- Lacto-vegetarian: People who do not eat meat, seafood, or eggs but include dairy.
- Ovo-vegetarian: People who do not eat meat, seafood, or dairy but include eggs.
- Vegan: People who do not eat meat, seafood, dairy, eggs, and other animal-derived products.
- Pescetarian: People who do not eat meat but include seafood and animal products.
- Flexitarian: People who mainly have a plant-based diet but occasionally include meat and seafood.
Some nutrients that can be lacking in a vegetarian diet include protein, calcium, iron, zinc, iodine, vitamin B12, and vitamin D. However, it is important to note that a well-planned vegetarian diet can meet all essential nutrient requirements.
There are about 1.5 billion vegetarians worldwide, but only 75 million exclude meat by choice, according to a 2010 estimate. Approximately 6% of adults in the US are vegetarian, and about half of vegetarians are also vegans.
People choose a vegetarian diet for various reasons, including health, environmental, ethical, religious, or economic concerns. Some people also choose a vegetarian diet because of personal beliefs or animal rights issues.
