Leading Vegan Populations in Europe
Determining which country has the most vegans in Europe involves looking at both the total number of people following a vegan diet and the percentage of the population. Germany and the United Kingdom are consistently highlighted as leaders in this trend.
Germany: A Major Vegan Market
Germany stands out as having the largest number of vegans in Europe, estimated at 1.58 million in 2023. It is also the largest plant-based market in Europe, with the highest per capita spending on plant-based foods. This growth is supported by a significant increase in plant-based food product sales and a government recommendation for a diet of at least 75% plant-based foods. Berlin is widely recognized as a major vegan hub with numerous vegan restaurants.
United Kingdom: A Pioneer in Plant-Based Living
The United Kingdom is another significant player in the European vegan landscape, often considered a pioneer in the plant-based movement. Estimates suggest a substantial vegan population, potentially reaching 5.5 million by 2025. The UK's market is known for innovation, leading globally in vegan product launches in 2019. London is a major vegan city, offering a wide range of plant-based culinary options.
Other Notable European Countries
While Germany and the UK have the largest total numbers, other countries in Europe show high per-capita vegan populations or strong growth trends.
- Austria and Sweden: These countries, along with others in Northern Europe, have notable percentages of their populations identifying as vegan or vegetarian.
- The Netherlands: Known for investment in cultivated meat and policy support for plant-based production.
- Poland: Seeing rapid growth in vegan restaurants, indicating wider acceptance.
- Ireland and Denmark: Also show a relatively high vegan share per capita.
Drivers of Veganism in Europe
Several factors contribute to the rising popularity of veganism across the continent:
- Health Benefits: Increased awareness of the health advantages of plant-based diets.
- Environmental Concerns: A growing understanding of the environmental impact of animal agriculture.
- Accessibility: The expanding market for plant-based foods makes vegan options more available and affordable.
Comparison of Leading European Vegan Countries
| Feature | Germany | United Kingdom | Austria | Sweden |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Vegans | ~1.58 million (2023) | ~5.5 million (2025) | ~5% of population (2023) | ~12% of population (2020) |
| Market Strength | Largest plant-based market; highest per capita spending. | Strong market innovator; high rate of product launches. | Significant sales growth. | Leader in plant-based alternatives. |
| Urban Centers | Berlin (vegan capital). | London (prominent hub). | Vienna (growing options). | Swedish cities & Copenhagen (Denmark). |
| Driving Factors | Health, environment, market availability, government support. | Health, environment, historical vegetarian movement. | Ethical concerns, flexitarianism. | Sustainability. |
Conclusion: The Evolving European Vegan Landscape
While Germany currently holds the top spot for the total number of vegans and market size, the UK remains a significant force with a large population and strong innovation. The trend is not limited to these two countries, with high per-capita rates in Scandinavia and growing acceptance across Eastern and Southern Europe. The increasing availability of plant-based products and greater public awareness are driving a broad shift in European dietary habits. Resources like The Vegan Society's statistics page offer further global insights.
