More than half of Russians are considering giving up animal products

EFKO company analysts conducted a survey dedicated to Vegan Day. The survey results showed that a quarter of Russians already adhere to the principles of vegetarianism and flexitarianism. 8% classified themselves as vegans, that is, they completely abandoned any animal products. At the same time, 66% of Russians surveyed are thinking about giving up animal products.

Most Russians are switching to plant-based foods due to HEALTH concerns. Thus, for almost half of Russians (46%) it is a matter of allergies or individual intolerances; 23% choose plant-based products out of concern for their health - this is mostly done by Russians over 56 years of age. Compassion for animals was chosen mainly by people aged 18-23 as the main reason for vegetarianism and veganism.

At the same time, the majority of Russians note that they already consume products of plant origin, regardless of their dietary preferences. For many Russians, this is the main source of protein during Orthodox Lent; every second Russian orders dishes with analogues of MILK and MEAT in restaurants and cafes, while 15% of respondents note that vegan dishes in restaurants turn out tastier than at home. 

Company experts also noted that in the first six months of 2023, demand for plant-based alternatives to animal products increased by 30%. The main driver of growth was plant-based milk , with sales of these products increasing by more than 1.5 times.