Study Reveals: Many Struggle Maintaining a Long-Term Vegan or Vegetarian Lifestyle
================================================================================
In a recent survey conducted by the Max Rubner Institute, Germany's federal research institute for nutrition and food, it was revealed that the country is experiencing a significant shift towards plant-based eating. The online survey, conducted last year, included 3,155 German-speaking individuals aged 18 to 80 years old.
The survey results showed that about 1% of respondents described their diet as vegan, meaning they avoid all animal products including milk, eggs, and honey. Additionally, approximately 4% of respondents follow a vegetarian diet, which means they avoid meat and fish. However, the survey did not provide specific information about the percentage of vegans who eat meat occasionally or follow a flexitarian diet.
Interestingly, a larger group, 28%, identified as flexitarian, meaning they limit their meat consumption to no more than twice a week. This indicates a broader shift towards reducing meat consumption rather than eliminating it entirely.
Over the past decade, Germany has seen a significant increase in plant-based eating. According to various studies and surveys, the total vegetarian and vegan population in Germany has roughly doubled, especially during and following the COVID-19 pandemic. Vegan food product launches in Germany have grown exponentially, more than doubling in the past five years and tripling from 2013 to 2018.
The evaluation of the data and the consumed foods showed a discrepancy for both vegans and respondents who identified as having a mixed diet. For instance, about 80% of respondents following a mixed diet have practiced this dietary pattern for at least ten years, while only around 20% of vegans reported having followed their diet without meat, fish, or any animal products for at least ten years.
The survey results suggest that the proportion of vegans and vegetarians in Germany is smaller than many might estimate. Furthermore, the statement mentions that the consumption data indicates a higher frequency of meat consumption than reported by the respondents. This discrepancy between self-reported and actual dietary habits was noted in the evaluation of the data.
The National Nutrition Monitoring survey, conducted by the Max Rubner Institute, provides valuable insights into the current dietary habits of Germans. The results suggest that while strict vegan and vegetarian percentages remain low (about 5% combined), Germany exhibits a strong trend towards plant-based eating, with flexitarians making up a much larger share, and the market for vegan products expanding rapidly in recent years.
