LONDON- Data analysis company, GlobalData, has found that concerns over processed foods, a desire for natural produce and negative press linked to lactose, has made vegan eating appealing to many health-conscious consumers.

Research from Q1 2017 shows a 2.2 rise in the global population describing themselves as vegan compared to three years ago. The difference in the US is larger with a 4.5 percent increase since 2014.


“With the rising number of vegans and how fashionable the cuisine now seems to be, big companies are taking notice,” GlobalData said Ronan Stafford, consumer analyst. “The number of vegan options will increase in both supermarkets and restaurants.”

Global restaurant brands including McDonald’s, Pizza Hut and Asda began offering vegan options in 2017. Ingredient box delivery services also have joined the market. Companies like Hello Fresh and Gousto are making it easier to cook vegan meals at home by delivering vegan-friendly ingredients to subscribers’ doors.