The trend of reducing meat consumption is gaining momentum in Germany, as more and more people are opting for plant-based foods for their health, animal welfare, and environmental reasons. According to a recent study by the Vion Food Group, meat is losing its negative image and is being considered an essential food by many. However, the Good Food Institute Europe reports that plant-based meat and dairy alternatives are booming in Germany, while meat consumption is declining. The Bundesverband des Deutschen Lebensmittelhandels e. V. (BVLH) has now published a new study that shows plant-based foods are gaining popularity among Germans.
The representative survey conducted by BVLH reveals that many Germans (41%) are flexitarians, meaning they only occasionally consume meat. The percentage of vegetarians (9%) and vegans (3%) is significantly lower. On the other hand, almost half of the population (49%) cannot be assigned to any of these specific dietary habits. Vegetarian and vegan eating habits are particularly prevalent among women and young people under 30 years of age. The percentage of women who follow a vegetarian diet (12%) is twice as high as that of men (6%). A similar pattern is observed in different age groups, with the percentage of vegetarians being higher among those under 30 years of age (15%) than those over 60 years of age (6%).
The survey participants stated that they are increasingly consuming plant-based foods for their health, animal welfare, and environmental reasons. A clear majority of respondents (62%) see climate protection as the main motivation for their dietary change. Animal welfare (52%) and the health benefits of plant-based products (51%) are also significant reasons for many consumers to switch to plant-based foods. However, only a few people (20%) mentioned taste as a reason for the health benefits of plant-based products. The study highlights the growing trend of plant-based eating habits in Germany and the reasons behind it.
