What percentage of Europe is vegan? A look at the growing plant-based trend

Estimates for what percentage of Europe is vegan vary depending on the year and methodology, with recent figures suggesting the total is somewhere between 2-4%. However, this small but growing number is part of a much larger shift towards plant-based and flexitarian eating across the continent.

Quick Summary

The percentage of vegans in Europe is a small but steadily growing figure, with estimates generally placing it around 2-4%, though this number varies significantly by country and survey. A much larger portion of the population is adopting flexitarian or vegetarian diets, indicating a broad shift towards reduced animal product consumption.

Key Points

• Overall Percentage: While figures vary, estimates suggest that approximately 2-4% of the European population identifies as vegan.

• Significant Growth Trend: The vegan population in Europe is growing, with Statista forecasting an increase in the EU from 6.6 million in 2023 to 8.3 million by 2033.

• Flexitarianism is More Widespread: The number of flexitarians, who actively reduce their meat consumption, is much higher, with one survey noting 27% of Europeans identified this way.

• Country Variation: Vegan rates differ substantially by country; for example, Austria has reported rates as high as 5%, while Germany has a high number of flexitarians.

• Market Expansion: The plant-based food market is experiencing rapid growth across Europe, driven by increased consumer interest and the wider availability of vegan products.

• Driving Motivations: Key reasons for adopting veganism include animal welfare, environmental concerns, and personal health benefits.

The question of what percentage of Europe is vegan is complex, with varying survey methodologies and reporting years yielding slightly different figures. While the absolute number of people identifying as strictly vegan remains a minority, data consistently shows that the movement is expanding. This growth is supported by increasing plant-based food sales and a larger population of flexitarians reducing their meat and dairy intake.

The Evolving Landscape of Veganism in Europe

Estimates for the vegan population in Europe vary, but recent data indicates figures generally fall within the 2-4% range. For example, a 2023 estimate from Meticulous Research suggested 2.6 million vegans, or 3.2% of the population. Other surveys have placed the figure around 3.4% (2021) and 4% (2020). Projections from Statista anticipate the number of vegans in the EU rising from 6.6 million in 2023 to 8.3 million by 2033. Beyond strict veganism, a larger number of Europeans are identifying as flexitarian, with a 2022 survey finding 27% in this category. Flexitarians are contributing to the growth of the plant-based market.

Country-by-Country Vegan Percentages

Vegan rates differ across Europe. Germany is often considered a plant-based leader with around 3.2% identifying as vegan in 2020 and a high number of flexitarians (40%). The UK also has a strong plant-based movement, with an estimated 3.7% of adults identifying as vegan in 2024. Austria has reported a relatively high vegan rate of 5% in 2023. Other countries like Denmark and Italy have shown varying rates and trends in plant-based adoption.

European Dietary Trends by Country (Approximate Figures)

Country	Vegan (%)	Vegetarian (%)	Flexitarian (%)
Germany	2.9–3.2% (2020-2022)	4.3% (2022)	39–40% (2022-2023)
UK	2–3.7% (2024)	6–10% (varies)	~31% (2024)
Austria	5% (2023)	-	37% (2023)
Italy	2.2–2.6% (2020)	3.5% (2020)	35% (2020)
Netherlands	-	10% (2021)	39% (2021)
Spain	-	-	-

Note: Data can vary based on survey type and year. Percentages for Spain and some others are less consistently reported for strictly vegan individuals, but flexitarian trends are high.

Key Drivers of the Rise in European Veganism

The growth in veganism and plant-based eating is influenced by several factors:

• Ethics: Animal welfare concerns are a primary driver for many vegans.
• Environmental Concerns: The environmental impact of animal agriculture, such as greenhouse gas emissions, is a significant motivation for reducing meat consumption.
• Health Benefits: The desire for a healthier lifestyle is a strong factor, with perceived benefits like lower cholesterol cited by consumers.
• Increased Availability: A rapidly growing vegan market offers a wide range of accessible plant-based products in supermarkets and restaurants.
• Social and Cultural Shifts: Veganism is becoming more mainstream, particularly among younger demographics like Gen Z, supported by online communities.

Conclusion: A Growing Movement, Not Just a Fad

While the exact percentage of Europe that is vegan is relatively small, the movement is expanding significantly. The rise in both strict vegans and the much larger flexitarian population shows a clear shift in European eating habits. This trend is fueled by ethical, environmental, and health considerations, alongside a growing and accessible plant-based market. Analysts anticipate continued expansion, indicating that veganism is a significant and evolving part of Europe's food landscape.

Outbound Link

For more in-depth data on Europe's plant-based market, see the latest report from GFI Europe on European plant-based sales data.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the approximate percentage of vegans in Europe?

While precise numbers vary depending on the survey and year, recent estimates place the vegan population in Europe at roughly 2-4%.

Are there more flexitarians than vegans in Europe?

Yes, the number of flexitarians is significantly larger than the number of vegans. For example, a 2022 survey indicated that 27% of Europeans identify as flexitarian.

Which European countries have the highest vegan populations?

Countries like Germany and the United Kingdom are often cited as having well-established and growing vegan populations. Some reports have also highlighted Austria as having a comparatively high percentage of vegans.

Why is veganism growing in Europe?

The rise of veganism is driven by increased awareness of animal welfare issues, growing concerns over the environmental impact of animal agriculture, and health motivations.

How does the plant-based food market reflect vegan trends in Europe?

The plant-based food market in Europe is expanding rapidly, with growth in sales volumes and value across many countries. This market expansion demonstrates increasing consumer demand and mainstream acceptance of plant-based options.

Is veganism more popular among younger generations in Europe?

Yes, research from the Smart Protein Project indicates that Gen Z has the highest rates of vegetarians and vegans in Europe compared to older generations.

What is a flexitarian diet?

A flexitarian diet is primarily plant-based but includes the occasional consumption of meat or animal products, appealing to many Europeans looking to reduce their animal product intake.