We will discuss the top 8 vegetarian countries in this brief article, but if you want to check out our analysis about companies innovating to create meat alternatives and more countries leading in vegetarianism, read 20 Countries With Highest Rates Of Vegetarians.
8. Argentina
Vegetarian Population: 12%
Argentina has a long-standing ‘beef culture,’ but the nation has seen a rising trend in vegetarianism among its younger population. Approximately 12% of Argentinians are said to be vegetarians as of current, and this number continues to grow. Buenos Aires, the capital city, now has numerous vegetarian and vegan eateries to serve veg culinary experiences. However, vegetarianism in Argentina still faces hurdles due to the nation’s entrenched meat-centric tradition.
7. Finland
Vegetarian Population: 12.2%
Currently, around 12.2% of Finns are vegetarian or vegan, a big jump from 2.5% in 2016. Finnish schools have also adapted to ‘sustainable eating’ by offering daily vegetarian options, while grocery stores and restaurants increasingly cater to vegetarian and vegan consumers. As a leader in technological innovation, Finland also stands at the forefront of developing plant-based substitutes to further facilitate this dietary change.
6. Sweden
Vegetarian Population: 12.4%
Vegetarianism has grown in Sweden, with around 12.4% vegetarian population as of 2023. Sweden’s progressive food culture and policies play a vital role in this trend, as there’s a proliferation of vegetarian and vegan options in supermarkets and restaurants. Furthermore, initiatives like “Meat Free Monday” adopted in several Swedish cities demonstrate a wider societal commitment to reducing meat consumption. Swedish vegetarianism is not merely a dietary choice but a growing social movement with implications for sustainability and health.
5. Israel
Vegetarian Population: 13%
Israel is labeled as a vegetarian paradise according to travelers and has one of the highest proportions of vegetarians per capita globally. This inclination comes from Jewish dietary laws (kashrut), which delineate specific food combinations. Also, the Mediterranean climate supports an agricultural sector rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and legumes. These factors have cultivated a national cuisine emphasizing plant-based ingredients and reduced its dependence on meat.
4. Taiwan
Vegetarian Population: 14%
Taiwan’s prominent religion is Buddhism, and like other countries where Buddhists are in the majority (like Japan and Vietnam), plant foods are preferred here. As of current, nearly 14% of the population has a plant-based diet because of Buddhist principles of non-harm to sentient beings. These beliefs align with food consumption patterns that promote peace and compassion. Furthermore, Taiwan’s agriculture sector, predominantly based on rice and vegetables, supports this trend. The Taiwanese government also encourages sustainable farming practices to strengthen the relationship between local produce and vegetarian cuisine.
3. Brazil
Vegetarian Population:14%
Brazil used to have a meat-heavy cuisine but is now seeing a growing trend toward vegetarianism. According to a 2022 survey by the Brazilian Institute of Public Opinion and Statistics (IBOPE), almost 30% of Brazilians are now reducing their meat consumption, with 14% calling themselves vegetarians. Urban areas such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are leading this change, fueled by rising health awareness.
2. Mexico
Vegetarian Population: 19%
Mexico comes in 2nd amongst countries with the highest rates of vegetarians, owing to growing movements of animal rights and environmental considerations. Mexican cuisine is meat-centric, with beef, chicken, and pork staples. But the country’s food scene is now becoming more inclusive of plant diets. Mexico’s agricultural sector supports the shift as it is rich in beans, corn, chilies, avocados, and tomatoes.
1. India
Vegetarian Population: 24%
India has the largest vegetarian population in the world due, in part, to religious and cultural ideologies. The country’s vegetarianism also reflects its agrarian roots, as there is an abundance of plant-based foods because of its fertile land. Predominantly vegetarian diets include various grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits, and spices that create a rich cuisine. In recent times, health and environmental concerns have further propelled the trend. Yet, it’s vital to note that not all Indians are vegetarians, and the country’s culinary diversity is one of the highest in the world.
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