News 1.1 million people in the UK went vegan in 2023

The plant-based movement is continuing to surge, with more and more people from all walks of life – and all across the globe – going vegan!

Results of an annual survey show an explosion in the number of vegans in the UK in 2023.

There are now a staggering 2.5 million people across the country choosing to live a fully plant-based lifestyle, which equates to 4.7% of the total population. 

The number of vegans in the UK has surged by an impressive 1.1 million since the start of 2023, according to our annual research.

Louise Bastock, editor at Finder

This widespread shift away from animal products is largely being fuelled by ever-increasing public awareness of the health, environmental, and ethical benefits of plant-based eating. 

While meat consumption in the UK has dropped to a record low, plant-based food has become more accessible than ever, with a growing number of cafés, restaurants, fast-food chains, and supermarkets now boasting extensive ranges of vegan-friendly options.

And there’s more growth to come…

As Plant Based News points out – the more vegan options there are available, the more people are encouraged to try them, the greater the demand becomes, and the more vegan options pop up. It’s a self-perpetuating cycle!

According to the study, a further 2 million people in the UK alone intend to adopt a vegan diet in 2024. 

Although people across all demographics are embracing plant-based food, Gen Z is at the forefront of the dietary shift, with projections indicating that more than half of Gen Z could be following a meat-free diet by 2025.

What about closer to home?

Here in Australia, we’re seeing a similarly promising shift, with research showing that:

“43% of Aussies will consider going vegan or vegetarian in 2024, either for the whole year or as part of Veganuary.”

Data also shows that the number of Australians following a plant-based diet has increased by 50% over the past decade, with around 3% of Aussies identifying as vegan in 2023.

Keen to join the plant-based movement?

All this to say – you’re far from alone in this pursuit 😊 By choosing to go veg, you’re joining a global community of like-minded people who care to make a difference for animals, their health, and the planet – and (if they’re anything like us) who love sharing the delicious food they discover along the way.

We’re here to help you get started. Follow these 3 simple steps:

• Grab a free Veg Starter Kit
• Pick a few easy recipes
• Write your vegan grocery list

And let us know how you go! We’re here to support you through your obstacles as much as we are to celebrate your wins. So feel free to reach out if you have any questions too.