Vegamonitor: beans bring balance to the table

The debate around meat and plant-based alternatives continues to stir emotions, especially during festive seasons. The Vegamonitor 2024 by the Vegetariërsbond highlights striking differences in eating habits and preferences, with gender, age, and education level playing significant roles. Are we moving towards a meat-free future, or will traditional meat dishes remain firmly on the menu?

Significant differences between men and women

The research shows that women are much more likely to choose vegetarian options than men. For example, 5.9% of women eat vegetarian meals daily, compared to just 1.5% of men. This trend is also clear when asked whether meat belongs on the festive table: 21.2% of women disagree, while only 12.5% of men share this view. Younger generations also show a strong preference. Among women under 30, 28% consciously choose vegetarian products when grocery shopping.

Plant-based dairy: elite product or the new normal?

Plant-based dairy, such as oat milk, has secured a place in supermarkets but remains controversial. Higher-educated consumers embrace these products more readily (40.1%) compared to those with lower levels of education (24.4%). Regional differences also play a role: in the western Netherlands, 38% view plant-based dairy as part of their lifestyle, while in the northern regions, this figure drops to just 21.8%.

Beans as a unifying factor

Fortunately, there’s a category of products that seems to unite everyone: beans and legumes. Only 12.9% of Dutch people feel they don’t align with their lifestyle or identity. These products are embraced across all age groups, education levels, and regions. Perhaps a hearty bean dish can help make holiday meals a little less divisive.

View the Vegamonitor 2024
Vegetariers.nl