Protein transition stalls at 39%

The protein transition in the Netherlands is showing little movement. The share of plant-based proteins in the Dutch diet remains stuck at 39 percent. This keeps the ratio at 61 percent animal-based and 39 percent plant-based, virtually unchanged from 2024 and 2023. These findings come from the Eiwitmonitor 2025 by Wageningen Social & Economic Research.

Consumption remains stable

As a result, the targeted 50/50 ratio by 2030 is no closer. The difference between 2024 and 2025 is not statistically significant. Total protein intake stabilized in 2025 at 63.1 grams per day. Of this, 24.6 grams are plant-based and 38.6 grams are animal-based.

Within animal proteins, meat and poultry account for the largest share. On the plant-based side, bread remains the primary protein source. The overall picture has been stable for years, with no notable shifts between product groups.

Clear differences are visible across dietary groups. Meat eaters obtain 64 percent of their proteins from animal sources. Flexitarians average 56 percent. Pescatarians show a 50-50 ratio. Vegetarians obtain 62 percent of their proteins from plant-based sources.

Attitudes shift, behavior does not

Although overall eating patterns show little change, intentions are shifting. The intention to consume legumes, tofu, tempeh, seitan, and plant-based alternatives to meat, fish, and dairy has increased compared to 2024. At the same time, the intention to consume animal products such as eggs, cheese, and dairy has declined slightly.

According to Marleen Onwezen, “the transition to more plant-based protein is not progressing.” She stresses that more action is needed to bring plant-based proteins to the same level as animal proteins.

Supply and promotions remain animal-driven

In 2025, online supermarket assortments consist of 65 percent animal-based protein products and 35 percent plant-based options. Within selected product groups, the range of animal-based proteins is more than seven times larger.

Price and promotions reinforce this dynamic. In 2025, 76 percent of promotions focused on animal-based protein products. Although plant-based proteins are cheaper on average per kilogram, in most product groups the lowest-priced option is still animal-based.

Wur.nl