The Growth of Vegans in Australia
Veganism is on the rise globally, with approximately 88 million individuals identifying as vegan as of 2023. Despite this growth, the movement still has a considerable journey ahead, particularly as more people seek vegan-friendly options due to health, environmental, and animal welfare concerns.
In Australia, the vegan community is experiencing similar expansion, paralleled by an increasing demand for plant-based meats. The industry has evolved significantly, transitioning from a niche market to a robust sector boasting over 30 brands and nearly 300 products nationally.
What Percentage of Australia is vegan?
As of 2023, around 3% of Australians adhere to a vegan diet, according to Statista, marking a notable increase from previous years. This surge reflects a broader trend of Australians embracing plant-based alternatives, evident in the rising popularity of plant-based milk options, with approximately 40% of households incorporating them into their diets according to a report from the ABC on plant-based milk alternatives.
Is Veganism Growing in Australia?
The growth of veganism in Australia is further underscored by the steady increase in the number of individuals adopting a vegan lifestyle over the years. Reports indicate a rise from 250,000 vegans in 2019 to 900,000 in 2023. This shift is mirrored in the flourishing plant-based meat industry, which is witnessing a surge in demand for healthier and sustainable protein sources.
The rise of plant-based meats reflects changing consumer attitudes towards healthier and sustainable protein sources. While early offerings were limited to utility foods like sausages and burgers, manufacturers are now diversifying their product lines to include options that can be incorporated into a wide range of dishes.
There are roughly 30 brands in Australia offering nearly 300 plant-based meat alternatives nationally.
Which Australian City Has the Most Vegans?
Determining which Australian city boasts the highest concentration of vegans presents challenges due to the lack of comprehensive data. However, cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane are renowned for their vibrant vegan communities and plethora of vegan-friendly establishments.
Melbourne, in particular, stands out as a leading hub for veganism, with an abundance of eateries, events, and initiatives catering to plant-based lifestyles. Similarly, Sydney and Brisbane boast thriving vegan scenes, reflecting a nationwide trend towards embracing plant-based living.
Globally, veganism is growing, with approximately 88 million adherents by 2023, driven by health, environmental, and animal welfare concerns. In Australia, the movement is expanding steadily, evidenced by a rising demand for plant-based meats and an increase in the number of vegans, reaching 3% of the population. Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane stand out as leading cities for embracing vegan lifestyles, offering numerous vegan-friendly options and vibrant communities. Ongoing research by organisations like Food Frontier provides insights into the industry's trajectory.