Varying Percentages: Why Survey Data Differs
Estimating the exact number of vegetarians in the U.S. is challenging, as different reputable organizations report varying percentages. The primary reason for this discrepancy lies in the survey methodology and the precise definition of 'vegetarianism' used. Some polls ask if a person 'considers' themselves a vegetarian, which may include individuals who occasionally eat meat, such as flexitarians. Other, more rigorous surveys ask specific questions about the consumption of meat, fish, seafood, or poultry to capture strict adherence.
For example, a Gallup poll in August 2023 found that 4% of Americans identified as vegetarian. In contrast, the Vegetarian Resource Group (VRG) surveys, which historically use stricter definitions, have shown slightly different results. A 2022 VRG survey found that roughly 6% of Americans never eat meat or fish, including vegans. The most recent VRG/YouGov poll from August 2025, using a direct question format, reported 4% of adults as vegetarian. These variations highlight the importance of understanding the context behind the numbers.
The Rise of Plant-Based Eating and Flexitarianism
While strict vegetarianism may hover around 4-6%, the broader trend of reduced meat consumption is far more significant. The category of 'flexitarians,' or semi-vegetarians, who eat a mostly plant-based diet but occasionally consume meat, is growing rapidly and represents a much larger segment of the population. A 2022 study found that 47% of US consumers identified as flexitarian. This shift is influenced by several factors:
- Health Concerns: Many people reduce meat intake for perceived health benefits, such as a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
- Environmental Awareness: Growing concerns over the environmental impact of industrial animal agriculture, including greenhouse gas emissions and land use, motivate many to adopt a more plant-rich diet.
- Animal Welfare: Ethical considerations regarding the treatment of animals in factory farming remain a major driving force for committed vegetarians and vegans.
- Product Availability: The widespread availability of innovative and high-quality plant-based alternatives in grocery stores and restaurants makes meat reduction easier and more appealing.
Demographic Differences in Plant-Based Diets
Research indicates that plant-based eating patterns are not uniformly distributed across the U.S. population. Significant differences exist based on age, gender, and political affiliation.
- Age: Younger generations, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, are more likely to identify as vegetarian or flexitarian compared to older generations. Surveys show a higher percentage of young adults adopting plant-based diets, a trend that decreases with age.
- Gender: A consistent finding across many studies is that women are more likely than men to be vegetarian. A recent study even noted that vegetarianism has been rising among women over the past 15 years, while remaining flat among men. This is often linked to differing motivations, with women more driven by animal welfare concerns.
- Political Affiliation: Gallup polls have repeatedly shown that political liberals are more likely to identify as vegetarian than moderates or conservatives.
Comparing Survey Data: Gallup vs. VRG
| Survey | Date | Method | % Vegetarian (Adults) | % Vegan (Adults) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gallup Poll | August 2023 | Self-Identification | 4% | 1% | Asks if they 'consider' themselves vegetarian. Lower figure for vegans than VRG. |
| VRG/YouGov Poll | August 2025 | Strict Definition | 4% | 1% | Asks if they 'never eat meat, fish, seafood, or poultry.' |
| VRG Survey | 2022 | Strict Definition | ~3% | ~3% | A 2022 VRG survey found about 6% eat no meat/fish, equally split. |
Conclusion: A Growing Movement, Complex Data
While precise figures on what percent of US citizens are vegetarian remain subject to survey methods and definitions, the overall trend is clear: plant-based diets are becoming increasingly mainstream. The rise of flexitarianism, driven by health, environmental, and ethical concerns, means that a much larger portion of the population is actively reducing their meat consumption. This cultural shift, particularly noticeable among younger, more progressive, and female demographics, is reshaping the American food landscape and driving innovation in the plant-based food industry. Future surveys will likely continue to show variations, but the trajectory towards more plant-rich diets appears firmly in place.
For more information on the health aspects of plant-based eating, you can consult sources like Harvard Health Publishing.
