Share of vegans in Germany 2022, by age group

During a survey carried out between July 2021 and June 2022, approximately six percent of Germans aged between 20 and 29 said they were following a vegan diet. The share of vegans among respondents aged between 50 and 64 was much lower at two percent.

Veganism in Germany

Germany’s share of young adults who follow a vegan diet is one of the highest in Europe. In 2021, the number of people who ate meat substitute products several times a week amounted to approximately 1.6 million people in Germany. Furthermore, more than 400,000 people ate meat substitutes daily. The most widely tried meat substitute is tofu. Other popular choices include soy meat and black beans.

Consumption of dairy substitutes in Germany

The consumption of milk substitutes in Germany reached around 250 million kilograms in 2020. This figure is forecast to more than double by 2026. In 2020, the retail revenue from vegan dairy substitutes in Germany amounted to over 530 million euros. Vegan milk alternatives make up most of the share, as compared to cheese and yogurt. The most popular alternative to conventional milk is oat milk. Milk alternatives made from almond, soy, and coconut are also among the more popular types of milk substitutes consumed in Germany. The main reason for not eating dairy products among German consumers is animal protection. Climate or environment protection are the second most frequently stated reasons, followed by lactose intolerance.