Which country eats the most broccoli? Unpacking global consumption

November 26, 2025 •

3 min read

According to a 2019 analysis, China led the world in per capita cauliflower and broccoli consumption, with residents consuming an average of 7.45 kg per person. This high per capita figure, combined with its massive population, positions China as the undisputed leader in answering the question, "which country eats the most broccoli?"

Quick Summary

An analysis of global data reveals China as the top country for broccoli consumption, both in total and per capita amounts. Factors like cuisine, varied cultivation, and health trends contribute to its dominance, placing it ahead of other major consumers like India and the United States. Distinct preparation methods, particularly stir-frying and steaming, are popular.

Key Points

China is the top consumer: China holds the number one spot for both total and per capita broccoli consumption globally.
Per capita champion: In 2019, China's per capita consumption of cauliflower and broccoli was 7.45 kg, the highest worldwide.
India is a major consumer: India is a significant consumer and producer of broccoli, ranking second to China in consumption figures.
Gai lan is a key variety: The widespread use of Chinese broccoli (gai lan) in Chinese cuisine contributes to the high consumption figures.
Diverse cooking methods: Broccoli is prepared in various ways in Chinese cuisine, including stir-frying, steaming with sauces, and adding to soups.
Cultural diet: A traditional emphasis on vegetable-heavy diets in China and India drives the high intake of brassicas like broccoli.

China's Broccoli Consumption Leadership

While many people might associate countries like the U.S. or European nations with high broccoli consumption, the data points clearly to China as the global leader. It is not merely a matter of total volume, which is high due to its population size, but also per capita consumption. In 2019, China's consumption of cauliflower and broccoli was reported at 7.45 kg per person, positioning it above other major nations. This leadership is rooted in a long history of consuming brassica vegetables and an increasingly health-conscious populace. The Chinese diet has long incorporated a variety of vegetables, and this trend continues today.

The Importance of Gai Lan

Part of the reason for China's high consumption is the popularity of specific varieties, notably gai lan, or Chinese broccoli. While Western broccoli is known for its dense, tree-like florets, gai lan is a leafier vegetable with broader leaves and thicker stems, which are often the main parts consumed. Its slightly more bitter, earthy flavor stands up well to robust cooking methods and sauces, making it a versatile ingredient in numerous dishes.

How Broccoli is Consumed in China

Chinese cuisine offers a wide array of preparations for broccoli and other brassicas. Common methods include:

Stir-frying: Chinese broccoli is often stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and savory sauces like oyster sauce. This quick-cooking method helps preserve the vegetable's crunch and nutrients.
Steaming: A simple, healthy preparation where the gai lan is lightly steamed and finished with a dressing of garlic, soy sauce, and oil.
Soups: Broccoli and related greens are frequently added to soups for flavor and nutrition.
Blanching: Some chefs blanch the vegetable before stir-frying to help it retain its vibrant green color.

Comparison of Global Broccoli Consumption

To understand the full picture, it is helpful to compare China with other significant consuming nations, considering both total volume and per capita figures.


Country	Approx. 2019 Total Consumption (tonnes)*	Approx. 2019 Per Capita Consumption (kg)*	Notable Consumption Habit
China	11,000,000	7.45	Extensive use of gai lan in stir-fries and steamed dishes.
India	9,200,000	6.68	Widely incorporated into a variety of dishes, with growing popularity among health-conscious urbanites.
United States	1,200,000	~3.64 (estimated)	Common side dish, often steamed or roasted. It was voted a favorite vegetable in a 2017 poll.
Mexico	~500,000 (estimated)	3.81	Significant producer and consumer, with consumption showing notable growth.

*Note: Data from 2019, reflecting cauliflower and broccoli combined consumption, is used for comparison where available.

Factors Influencing High Broccoli Consumption

Several factors contribute to the high consumption of broccoli in countries like China and India:

High Production: China and India are also the largest producers of cauliflower and broccoli, accounting for a vast majority of the world's supply. Local and abundant supply makes the vegetable more affordable and accessible.
Traditional Diet: In many Asian cuisines, a high proportion of vegetables is standard in daily meals. This cultural emphasis on vegetables means ingredients like broccoli are integral to the diet, not just a side dish.
Health Awareness: Increasing awareness of the health benefits of cruciferous vegetables, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, has further boosted their popularity.
Versatility: The vegetable's versatility in cooking allows it to be prepared in countless ways, preventing culinary fatigue.

A Global Perspective on Broccoli Production and Trade

While China and India consume the most, other countries play significant roles in the global broccoli market. Spain, for example, is a major exporter to Europe, and the UK is a substantial importer. This dynamic shows that consumption patterns are not solely dictated by domestic production, but also by international trade and culinary preferences. The increasing global demand for healthy, nutritious food continues to drive the market for broccoli and related vegetables. Myrtea Export provides further insight into the European market dynamic.

Conclusion

While broccoli is a popular vegetable in many parts of the world, China undeniably eats the most broccoli, both in total and on a per capita basis. This is due to a combination of high domestic production, a deeply ingrained cultural tradition of vegetable consumption, and a thriving market for various broccoli varieties, such as gai lan. India follows as a close second, with its own rapidly growing consumption driven by health trends. The global market remains dynamic, with production and trade patterns constantly evolving to meet consumer demand. The lesson is clear: when it comes to enjoying this nutritional powerhouse, China leads the pack.

Frequently Asked Questions

China produces a massive amount of its own broccoli and is the largest producer globally. While it does export some, its high domestic consumption is largely met by its own vast agricultural output.

Chinese broccoli, or gai lan, has thicker stems, broad leaves, and smaller, sparser florets compared to Western broccoli. Its flavor is also slightly more bitter, and the stems and leaves are the primary parts eaten.

India is the second-largest producer of broccoli and, like China, has a huge population that supports high total consumption. Its growing health-conscious population has also increased demand for nutritious vegetables like broccoli.

The American-style beef and broccoli was created by Chinese immigrants in San Francisco after broccoli was introduced by Italian immigrants. While it has roots in Chinese culture, it is not a traditional mainland Chinese dish, which would more likely feature gai lan.

In Western countries, broccoli is often steamed, boiled, or roasted as a side dish. In Asian cuisines, particularly in China, it is frequently stir-fried with sauces or added to soups, using quick cooking techniques that preserve nutrients.

After China and India, other notable high-volume consumers of broccoli and cauliflower include the United States and Mexico. Countries like Spain are major exporters, while countries like the UK have high domestic popularity despite being large importers.

Yes, increasing consumer demand, driven by awareness of the vegetable's nutritional benefits, has led to steady growth in global broccoli production and consumption.