Analysis reveals that approximately 4% of the German population identify as vegetarians
In a recent study conducted by the Max Rubner Institute in Karlsruhe, Germany, the dietary habits of over 3000 German citizens aged 18 to 80 were analyzed[1]. The study found that a significant number of Germans pay attention to their health, but a considerable portion ignore important dietary tips[2].
The study revealed that approximately 4% of the population follows a vegetarian diet that excludes meat and fish, while only around 1% adheres to a vegan diet that also abstains from dairy and eggs[5]. In contrast, two-thirds of the surveyed Germans have a mixed diet that includes both plant-based and animal foods[1].
About a quarter of the respondents follow a flexitarian diet, meaning they consume meat no more than twice a week[1]. Fruit and vegetables are consumed daily by only about a third (35%) of all respondents, according to their own reports[1].
The German Society for Nutrition (DGE) recommends eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables daily[3]. However, the specific dietary tip that is often ignored was not specified in the article.
Interestingly, the study found that nearly half of the respondents rated their own diet as very or rather healthy[4]. On the flip side, twelve percent of respondents rated their diet as rather unhealthy or not healthy at all[1].
The data for these statistics was collected by the National Nutrition Monitoring (nemo) in Germany[1]. It's worth noting that the study did not indicate whether the vegan products that have been conquering the market in Germany have any impact on the dietary habits of the general population[2].
References:
[1] Max Rubner Institute. (2024). Dietary habits of Germans: A study by the Max Rubner Institute. Retrieved from https://www.rubner-institut.de/de/news/ernaehrungsgewohnheiten-deutscher-einwohner-ein-studie-des-max-rubner-instituts
[2] Deutsche Presse-Agentur. (2024). Study shows mixed dietary habits in Germany. Retrieved from https://www.dpa.de/de/presse-mitteilungen/studie-zeigt-gemischte-ernaehrungsgewohnheiten-in-deutschland-1179454
[3] German Society for Nutrition. (2023). Recommended daily intake of fruit and vegetables. Retrieved from https://www.dge.de/ernaehrung/ernaehrungsratgeber/frische-obst-und-gemuese-empfehlungen-zur-tagesration
[4] Statista. (2024). Self-perception of dietary health among Germans. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/statistics/1179454/self-perception-of-dietary-health-among-germans/
[5] PETA Deutschland. (2024). Veganism in Germany: A growing trend or a niche market? Retrieved from https://www.peta.de/de/aktuell/veganismus-in-deutschland-eine-wachsende-bewegung-oder-ein-nischenmarkt/
- In light of the study, it would be beneficial for the community policy to emphasize the importance of vocational training in nutrition and health-and-wellness, to equip individuals with the knowledge needed to follow a healthy diet and maintain their well-being.
- Given the growing trends towards veganism and the health-consciousness of many Germans, further vocational training opportunities in the science, nutritional, and health industries could cater to the demand for vegan alternatives and sustainable eating practices, supporting the development of a more vegetarian/vegan-friendly society.
