Basically a person who does not eat meat of fish, and sometimes other animal products is called a vegetarian. But what is the proper reason behind it ? It may be adopted for various reasons. Many people object to eating meat out of respect for sentient animal life.
Such also ethical motivations have been codified under various religious beliefs as well as animal rights advocacy. What about the least? Other motivations for vegetarianism are health related, environment, culture, aesthetic, economic, taste-related, or relate to other personal preferences.
Which countries have more vegetarians. Here the list of top 8 countries that has a highest number of vegetarians:
India
According to the World Atlas, India has the highest rate of vegetarians in the world, with 38% of its population identifying as vegetarians. In fact, the birthplace of vegetarianism is India. It is deeply rooted in the culture and religion of the country and has even been ranked lowest consumer of meat in the world.
India is thought to have the most vegetarians globally, with up to 42% of the population avoiding meat products. In addition to Hindu dietary restrictions, the following states in India have a higher percentage of vegetarians than others:
- Rajasthan:74.9%
- Haryana: 69.25%
- Punjab: 66.25%
- Gujrat: 60,95%
Mexico
As of July 2023,19% of Mexico’s population identifies as vegetarian, making it the second country with the highest percentage of vegetarians in the world. Isn’t usually a country that comes to mind when think of plant-based eating, but it’s certainly on the rise. It is being possible because the agriculture sector supports that shift, given the abundance of beans, corn, chillies, avocados, and tomatoes that can be grown in the country.
Taiwan
Taiwan has the 3rd biggest population of vegetarians per capita, so it’s no wonder it would soon take stage as a vegetarian haven. 14% of the population in Taiwan identifies as being vegetarian. Taiwan is so veg- friendly for a few reasons. It has some of the toughest food labelling processes in the world., the government heavily promotes residents to eat ‘ meat- free –day ‘ once a week! 1/3rd of the country is Buddhist, which usually coincides with a vegetarian lifestyle.
Israel
Israel is considered one of the best sustainable countries in the world. 13% of the population are vegetarians in the country. Vegetarianism in Israel is gradually becoming a lifestyle choice even for those who identify as non-religious. The country is home to hundreds of restaurants offering vegan meals. In 2014 , Tel Aviv hosted the biggest vegan festival in the world where 15,000 people attended.
Australia
Australia is known to have one of the largest vegan communities worldwide. About 2.5 million Australians, or 12.1% of the population, eat all or the vegetarian food. In addition, 6% of the population identifies as vegan. The number of people following plant-based diets has increased by about 50% in the last decade. In New South Wales and Victoria, 26% of the population identify as vegetarian, respectively. In South Australia, the number is 15%. Every year annual basis “ Vegetarian Week” is held on the country from 1-7 October.
Argentina
Vegetarianism is practised by approximately 12% of Argentina’s population. In 2023, It was estimated that 12% of Argentines are vegetarian which is an increase pf these percentage points from the previous year. Of the vegetarians, there are 777 (64.3%) are Iacto-ovo-vegetarians. The Argentina Vegan (UVA) estimates that 52% of Argentina’s vegans and vegetarians are female, and nearly 40% Re under 35 years old!
Finland
Finland has a growing number of people who identify as vegetarians, and a 2020 study found that meat consumption has dropped by 2% per capita, and grain consumption has per capita, and grain consumption has increased by 3% per capita. An estimated 12% of the Finland population is vegetarian, it is an increase from 2.5% in 2016. Finland is considered one of the most vegetarian-friendly countries in the European Union.
