Germany increasingly produces meat alternatives
In the ever-evolving landscape of food consumption, Germany stands out as a frontrunner in the adoption of meat alternatives. A recent survey revealed that Germans are most open to laboratory-made cheese, with 42.8% expressing a willingness to try it. This openness is reflected in the growth of the meat alternatives market in the country.
From 2020 to 2021, the production and revenue of meat alternatives in Germany showed significant growth, according to Statista's market insights for the German meat substitutes industry. The exact percentage increases for that exact period may not be directly detailed, but related data indicates that the market has been experiencing ongoing growth, as evidenced by rising revenue and production volumes from 2018 through 2023.
The meat substitutes sector in Germany includes a variety of plant-based meats made from soy, wheat gluten, lentils, tofu, tempeh, nuts, and vegetarian meats containing eggs or dairy. Leading companies in Germany's plant-based and alternative protein segment have recently secured large investments, indicating strong market growth and investor confidence.
The reasons for adopting a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle in Germany are diverse, according to the survey. For vegans and vegetarians in Germany, personal health, environmental and sustainability concerns, and animal welfare are primary motivations. Personal health is a third motivation for vegans, with 58.2% citing it as a reason, while environmental and sustainability concerns are a secondary motivation for 83.3%. Animal welfare is the primary motivation for vegans, with 96% avoiding meat and animal products for this reason.
Approximately 1.18 million people in Germany identify as vegan, eating a purely plant-based diet. Germany has the second-highest percentage of vegetarians at 4.6%, and the UK has the highest percentage at 5.6%, according to a recent survey by listed company Veganz.
In the first three quarters of 2021, Germany produced 71,752 tons of meat alternatives, a 16% increase from the same period in 2020. The revenue from meat alternative production in the same period was 331.2 million euros, a 21% increase from the same period in 2020.
Interestingly, 39.5% of German respondents could imagine eating lab-grown meat in the future. However, 68% of Germans categorically refuse to eat insects.
Italy has the second-highest percentage of vegans at 2.3%, while France has the third-highest percentage of vegetarians at 4.3%. The survey did not provide information on the percentage of respondents who identified as neither vegetarian nor vegan.
The growth of the meat alternatives market in Germany is a testament to the changing dietary preferences of the population. As more people adopt vegetarian and vegan lifestyles for various reasons, the demand for meat alternatives is likely to continue growing, driving further investment and innovation in the sector.
Other scientific and environmental concerns contribute to the escalating demand for health-and-wellness products, including meat alternatives. The expansion of the health-and-wellness sector, which encompasses everything from food-and-drink items to lifestyle choices, mirrors Germany's commitment to environmental science. With a growing consumer base seeking sustainable options, environmental-science advancements have become essential to meet the increasing demand for meat substitutes. The burgeoning market for plant-based foods and lab-made products is reshaping the food-and-drink landscape in Germany, appealing to those who prioritize health, sustainability, and animal welfare.
