Indian Consumers Increasingly Embrace Plant-Based Foods in 2024

From vegconomist.com

Indian consumers are increasingly demanding plant-based dishes, according to Corporate Executive Chef Rakesh Sethi of Radisson Hotel Group.

Sethi told Hotelier India that plant-based foods would be one of the most significant trends in fine dining this year, predicting a “noteworthy surge” in the number of dishes containing plant-based meat or other plant proteins. He said that protein alternatives were increasingly being used within Indian cuisine, noting that this was part of a global trend towards meatless diets.

This shift is highlighted by the fact that international food and hospitality fair Aahar — which takes place in New Delhi — is set to include plant-based meat and other plant proteins this year, seemingly for the first time.

Additionally, Veganuary India reported in December that it was expecting record participation in its 2024 campaign. The charity cited a survey showing that 70% of Indian consumers believe the country’s strong tradition of vegetarianism could help fuel the growth of veganism. 62% said the vegan lifestyle was easy to maintain, while 61% believed there were enough vegan food choices.

                                                                                      Image credit: BVeg Foods

“Pivotal moment”

A report published by India’s Plant Based Foods Industry Association (PBFIA) last year concluded that there had been a “noticeable increase” in plant-based eating in the country. It found that 67% of those who choose plant-based products are motivated by animal welfare issues, 54.1% cite environmental concerns, and 48.6% believe that plant-based foods have health benefits.

The PBFIA has previously predicted “explosive growth” for the Indian plant-based sector, and has outlined ambitious proposals that could make the country a leading global supplier of plant protein ingredients.

“The plant-based foods industry has reached a pivotal moment, standing at a crossroads of tremendous opportunity and responsibility,” said Mr. Sanjay Sethi, Executive Director at the PBFIA. “We must navigate this path with integrity, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to creating a better food system for both the planet and the people.”

https://vegconomist.com/market-and-trends/indian-consumers-embrace-plant-based-foods/