Authored by Agnelorajesh Athaide, Partner, Sante’ Spa Cuisine
In recent years, the concept of veganism has gained tremendous popularity in India. With increasing awareness about health and environmental concerns, people are adopting veganism as a lifestyle choice. Growing consumer knowledge of healthy lifestyles, such as how to eat a healthier diet, reduce weight, and lower cholesterol and fat, can aid in the growth of vegan food items, such as plant-based vegan cuisine. A vegan diet excludes all animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and even honey. According to United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (UN FAO) research, India now has the lowest percentage of meat consumption in the world, owing to Hindus constituting 44 percent of its 1.3 billion population. Furthermore, by 2020, India will have approximately 500 million vegetarians and approximately five million strict vegans.
The vegan food market in India is rapidly growing, and it is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The Indian vegan food market is expected to grow in the forecast period of 2023-2028 at a CAGR of 8.6%. The report attributes this growth to increasing awareness about health and environmental concerns, as well as the availability of vegan options. The report also highlights that the vegan dairy segment is the fastest-growing segment in the vegan food market, with plant-based milk, cheese, and yogurt becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, the report notes that vegan meat substitutes are also gaining popularity, with more people choosing to replace meat with plant-based alternatives.
Let us explore why people are choosing veganism in healthy food and how it is making a big difference:
Health Benefits
Veganism has been linked to various health benefits. Studies have shown that a plant-based diet can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. Vegan diets are often rich in nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which are essential for maintaining good health. Additionally, a vegan diet is often lower in saturated fat, which can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
Ethical Considerations
For many people, choosing a vegan lifestyle is about ethical considerations. Animal agriculture is a leading cause of deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. It also involves the exploitation and suffering of animals raised for food. By choosing a vegan diet, people can reduce their impact on the environment and avoid supporting animal cruelty.
Sustainability
The production of animal products requires more resources than plant-based foods. Animal agriculture is a leading cause of greenhouse gas emissions and contributes significantly to climate change. Choosing a vegan diet can reduce the environmental impact of food production and help to preserve natural resources.
Availability of Vegan Options
With the increasing demand for vegan food, the availability of vegan options has also increased. Many restaurants and food chains now offer vegan options, making it easier for people to choose plant-based foods. Additionally, vegan substitutes for meat and dairy products are now widely available in supermarkets, making it easier for people to switch to a vegan diet.
Changing Attitudes
Attitudes towards veganism are changing, and it is now seen as a viable and healthy option. The rise of social media has also played a significant role in promoting veganism and raising awareness about its benefits. Many celebrities and influencers are now promoting a vegan lifestyle, making it more mainstream and acceptable.
In conclusion, the shift towards veganism in healthy food is driven by various factors, including health benefits, ethical considerations, sustainability, availability of vegan options, and changing attitudes. The market statistics in India indicate that the demand for vegan food is rapidly growing, and it is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. By choosing a vegan lifestyle, people can not only improve their health but also reduce their impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable future.
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