Google Searches for Veganism Surpass Climate Change Interest

Jan 6, 2026, 2:42 AM

Climate Change Health Research Innovation

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A new report from The Vegan Society indicates that global searches for veganism are now outpacing those for climate change, reflecting a growing cultural shift towards plant-based diets. This trend is particularly notable as flexitarianism, a diet that encourages reduced meat consumption without complete elimination, has become mainstream across various demographics.

The report, titled "Veganism Around the World," combines polling data from ten countries and detailed profiles from 21 nations, revealing that 16-30% of consumers identify as flexitarians. This shift is driven by increasing awareness of the environmental impacts of meat consumption, as well as health benefits associated with plant-based diets.

In India, for instance, 14% of the population identifies as vegan, while 26% are vegetarian, showcasing a strong cultural inclination towards plant-based eating. The report notes that overall sentiment towards veganism is generally neutral to positive, with India being the most favorable country for veganism and Japan the least.

Google Trends data supports these findings, showing that searches for veganism peaked around 2020 and have since stabilized, consistently outpacing searches for vegetarianism and climate change. This suggests that more individuals are exploring veganism not just as a dietary choice but as a lifestyle aligned with their values regarding health and environmental sustainability.

The report also highlights the role of the food and beverage industry in this transition. The US leads in the number of vegan restaurants, with 1,717 establishments, and has the largest plant-based ecosystem by total company count. However, the report notes that domestic demand in the US is cooler compared to other regions, prompting producers to focus on export growth.

Flexitarianism's rise can be attributed to various factors, including increased awareness of the negative environmental impacts of animal agriculture, which contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. As the global population continues to grow, the demand for sustainable food sources becomes more pressing, with projections indicating that the demand for animal-derived protein could double by 2050.

Moreover, the report emphasizes that while veganism is gaining traction, it is essential to recognize that innovation in plant-based products does not automatically lead to a decrease in animal product consumption. For example, Israel, a leader in the alt-protein industry, still ranks high in per capita consumption of poultry and beef.

The Vegan Society's findings suggest that veganism is increasingly understood and adopted worldwide, with the organization’s Vegan Trademark now appearing on over 70,000 products globally. Claire Ogley, head of campaigns at The Vegan Society, stated that the data indicates veganism is no longer a niche movement but is gaining traction across cultures, driven by restaurants, businesses, and consumers alike.

In conclusion, the report underscores a significant cultural shift towards veganism and flexitarianism, driven by health concerns and environmental awareness. As more consumers seek sustainable dietary options, the food industry is likely to continue evolving to meet this demand, further solidifying the place of plant-based diets in mainstream culture.

This growing interest in veganism not only reflects changing consumer preferences but also highlights the potential for a more sustainable food system that aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote health.

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