The latest survey by The Vegan Society in the UK shows that at least two million residents of Great Britain identify as vegan or plant-based, which equates to about 3% of the population. Of these, one-third identify as vegan and the rest as plant-based. The percentage found in London, the Northeast, and the Southwest reaches 4%, but Scotland, Wales, and the East Midlands score lower at 2%.
The study also shows that 10% of respondents say they are reducing or eliminating their intake of animal products in some way, with 4% identifying as vegetarian and 3% as pescetarian. Younger generations are twice as likely to follow a plant-based diet than older ones, and women are more likely to do so than men (3.6% compared to 1.98%). Additionally, graduates are significantly more likely to be vegan or plant-based than non-graduates.
Of all the reasons to become vegan, animal welfare is the most common (57%) followed by physical health (52%), the environment (48%), and mental health (27%).
Most importantly, 96% of vegan and plant-based people surveyed said they do more than just restrict their diet. 19% avoid products tested on animals, 72% avoid any products (not just food) derived from animals, 68% avoid using or eating honey, and 64% avoid visiting zoos, aquariums, and other animal entertainment. Only 4% of those surveyed do not avoid any of the above.
Claire Ogley, Head of Campaigns, Policy and Research at The Vegan Society, said, “These results reveal a remarkable transformation in attitudes toward veganism and plant-based living across Britain. It’s inspiring to see younger generations leading the way, with a growing number of people adopting more sustainable and compassionate lifestyles for a variety of reasons, from health to the environment to animal welfare.”
Join millions choosing vegan in 2025 with Veganuary! https://bit.ly/Veganuary25
