This brief article is the continuation of the detailed overview we did of the countries whose cuisines aren’t very welcoming for vegetarians. To learn more about how people have started taking their veggies seriously and its impact on the food industry, read 15 Worst Countries in the World For Vegetarians.
8. France
French cuisine is inherently rich in meat, seafood, and dairy products, often considered essential elements in traditional dishes. Also, cheese, a staple in French dining, often contains rennet, a non-vegetarian ingredient. Vegetarianism is slowly gaining acceptance in larger cities like Paris, but it can be particularly difficult in rural areas and small towns where meat-heavy dishes are often the norm.
7. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia could present difficulties for vegetarians due to its traditional dietary norms. With a cuisine heavily influenced by Bedouin culture, many staple dishes, such as Kabsa and Mandi, are favored. Social gatherings in the country often center around meals featuring lamb or chicken, emphasizing the prominent role of meat. This, along with limited vegetarian awareness, could make it a tough environment for vegetarians.
6. Thailand
Living in Thailand as a vegetarian is tricky because of fish sauce used in many dishes, often added even to meals that seem vegetable-based. Also, the language barrier can make it difficult to communicate dietary restrictions to street vendors or restaurant staff. Despite the presence of a strong Buddhist tradition, the concept of vegetarianism isn’t as widely understood or practiced as in some other Asian countries.
5. South Korea
South Korea is one of the worst countries for vegetarians because of the deep-rooted culinary culture that revolves around meat and seafood. Traditionally, vegetables, tofu, and grains were staples in Korean cuisine, but the modern dietary landscape features dishes like seafood-based soups. Also, many vegetable dishes are often prepared using fish sauce, shrimp paste, or anchovy broth, so getting hold of pure vegetarian or vegan food is hard.
4. Russia
Russia is the 4th biggest meat consumer in the world, with the consumption standing at 11.22 million tons in 2022. Also, the understanding and prevalence of vegetarianism in the country are relatively low, particularly in rural areas. Although larger cities like Moscow or Saint Petersburg offer more vegetarian-friendly options due to their cosmopolitan nature, many Russians view meat as essential to a balanced diet.
3. Argentina
Argentina’s annual meat consumption was 4.98 million tons, which roughly translates to 110.15 kgs per capita meat eating. Like many other meat-eating nations, the country’s cultural tradition is centered around asado, which highlights different cuts of meat. Buenos Aires, the capital, hosts numerous ‘Parrillas’ – steakhouses offering many meat dishes.
2. Japan
Although Japanese cuisine appears predominantly plant-based due to the frequent use of vegetables, tofu, and rice, it often incorporates dashi (a fish-based stock) as a foundational element in many dishes. This means seemingly vegetarian foods can contain hidden animal products. Seafood is deeply ingrained in the dietary culture of Japan, as well as small amounts of meat, so getting your meals completely meat-free in Japan requires knowledge of the local food scene.
1. China
Chinese cuisine also involves extensive use of meat and animal-based products. Soups and sauces are often made with animal bones or fish. Even vegetarian-looking dishes may be cooked using animal fats or lard. Therefore, understanding and catering to vegetarian diets is still not very prevalent in the country.
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