Vegetarianism is a dietary regimen that consists of consuming foods obtained from plants and refraining from consuming meat products (meat and fish). Sometimes this regimen may include abstaining from most or all animal products such as dairy, honey, or eggs, although this regimen is generally already considered vegan.
More and more people are attracted to vegetarianism, and there are many reasons, including religious reasons, ethical motivation, health reasons, economic factors or aversion to meat.
These countries have most vegetarian population
1st India – 31%
India is the country with the most vegetarians, both in percentage and number. 31% of the population of India is vegetarian. Vegetarianism became popular in India after the introduction of Buddhism and Jainism, around the 6th century BC. c.
Both religions have the concept of Ahiṃsā, which emphasizes respect and non-violence to all forms of life. Vegetarianism in the country is associated with Lacto vegetarianism, that is, people eat dairy products but not eggs. India has one of the lowest meat consumption rates in the world.
2nd Switzerland – 14%
Switzerland has the highest rate of vegetarianism in Europe. According to a study, 14% of the Swiss are vegetarian or vegan (11% vegetarian and 3% vegan). Most of them are located in the northeast of the country, in the German-speaking region.
3rd Israel – 13%
13% of Israel's population is vegetarian. Vegetarianism in the country is attributed to Judaism, which restricts the consumption of animal meat. Vegetarianism in Israel is gradually becoming a way of life, even for those who identify as non-religious. In 2014, Tel Aviv hosted the world's largest vegetarian festival, attended by more than 15,000 people. The city is classified as a perfect destination for vegan travellers.
4th Taiwan – 12%
On the small island of Taiwan, it is estimated that there are more than 3 million vegetarians, or what is the same, 12% of the population. In addition, there are more than 6,000 vegetarian establishments in Taiwan.
The country has strict food labelling laws and since 2007 there has been strong opposition to the consumption of meat. In addition, there is a famous movement called "a vegetarian day every week", which has been supported by the government.
5th Germany – 10%
In Germany, 10% of the population is vegetarian. Most Germans who switch to a vegetarian diet cite environmental protection, animal rights and health benefits as motivation. Cities like Berlin have seen an increase in the number of vegetarian and vegan establishments due to increased consumer demand.
6th Austria – 9%
Austria has a vegetarianism rate of 9%. Vegetarianism has become very popular in Austria, especially in the country's capital, Vienna, where there are numerous outlets where only vegetarian food is sold.
7th UK – 9%
The UK has seen a growing number of vegetarians in recent years, with an estimated 9% of the country's population being vegetarian. Many citizens began adopting the vegetarian lifestyle after World War II. Currently, there are twice as many vegetarian women as men.
8th Australia – 9%
The number of vegetarians in Australia is experiencing tremendous growth. Currently, 9% of the Australian population is vegetarian. In Australia, there is the "Vegetarian Week", which is celebrated from October 1 to 7 each year. Food companies have adapted to the trend, offering vegetarian versions of popular Australian dishes.
9th Italy – 8%
8% of the Italian population is considered vegetarian. The number of vegetarians in Italy has been increasing in recent years. In 2016, the city of Turin proposed an agenda to reduce meat consumption. The measure was promoted by Mayor Chiara Appendino but was strongly opposed by a large part of the population. (Countries most vegetarian population)
10th Brazil – 8%
The only South American nation on the list is Brazil. 8% of its population is vegetarian. Vegetarianism in Brazil is associated with countercultural and religious movements. Most of the country's vegetarians are upper-middle-class urbanites who inhabit the south-central half of Brazil.
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