Dietary trends show rising meat consumption and growing plant-based alternatives

Recent data highlights shifting dietary patterns across Europe. In Germany, meat consumption rose in 2025 to an average of 54.9 kilograms per person, with poultry seeing a notable increase. The German Animal Welfare Federation has responded by promoting plant-based diets for animal protection, health, and environmental reasons, noting that plant-based food baskets can be cheaper than meat-based ones.

In Switzerland, a Swissveg analysis reveals that 57.7 percent of the population consumes meat alternatives at least occasionally. Most consumers of these alternatives are omnivores or flexitarians rather than strict vegetarians or vegans. While the percentage of vegans in Switzerland grew to 0.8 percent, the total number of vegetarians and vegans remains a minority of the population.

In the German student sector, the Studentenwerk Schleswig-Holstein reported that cafeteria prices remain stable for the current winter semester. Despite economic pressures, meat-free options continue to trend, accounting for approximately two-thirds of all meals sold.