Meat Substitutes - Southern Europe

Southern Europe

Highlights

Revenue in the Meat Substitutes market amounts to US$481.20m in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 10.44% (CAGR 2024-2029).
In global comparison, most revenue is generated China (US$2bn in 2024).
In relation to total population figures, per person revenues of US$2.03 are generated in 2024.
In the Meat Substitutes market, volume is expected to amount to 41.77m kg by 2029. The Meat Substitutes market is expected to show a volume growth of 8.4% in 2025.0.
The average volume per person in the Meat Substitutes market is expected to amount to 0.1kg in 2024.

Key regions:

Market definitionIn-Scope/Out-of-scopeMarket structureMethodology

The Meat Substitutes market in Southern Europe is experiencing subdued growth due to various factors, such as consumer preference for traditional meat products, limited availability of plant-based options, and slow adoption of vegetarian/vegan diets in the region. Despite this, the market is expected to witness moderate growth in the coming years, driven by increasing health consciousness and growing concerns over sustainability in the food industry.

Customer preferences: As consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, there has been a noticeable increase in demand for plant-based meat substitutes in Southern Europe. This trend is driven by a growing preference for sustainable and ethical food choices, as well as a rise in flexitarian and vegetarian diets. Additionally, the convenience and versatility of meat substitutes, such as tofu and seitan, cater to the evolving lifestyles and dietary preferences of the region's diverse population.

Trends in the market: In Southern Europe, the Meat Substitutes Market within the Meat Market of The Food market is experiencing a surge in demand for plant-based alternatives to traditional meat products. This trend is driven by increasing health consciousness and concerns over the environmental impact of meat consumption. As a result, companies are investing in innovative technologies to develop and market meat substitutes that closely mimic the taste and texture of real meat. This trajectory of growth in the Meat Substitutes Market has significant implications for industry stakeholders, including meat producers who may face competition and the potential for a shift in consumer preferences. Additionally, the rising popularity of meat substitutes presents opportunities for retailers and restaurants to expand their offerings and cater to the growing demand for plant-based options. Overall, the current trend towards meat substitutes in Southern Europe is expected to continue, driven by a combination of health, environmental, and ethical concerns.

Local special circumstances: In Southern Europe, the Meat Substitutes Market is influenced by the region's strong cultural ties to traditional meat-based dishes. However, the rise in health-conscious consumers and concerns about sustainability have led to increased demand for plant-based alternatives. Additionally, stringent regulations on animal welfare and environmental protection have further boosted the growth of the market. In countries like Italy and Spain, where Mediterranean diets are prevalent, there is a growing trend of incorporating plant-based proteins, such as legumes and nuts, into traditional dishes. This unique blend of cultural and regulatory factors has created a distinct market for meat substitutes in Southern Europe, setting it apart from other regions.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The Meat Substitutes Market in Southern Europe is heavily influenced by macroeconomic factors such as consumer preferences, government regulations, and economic conditions. With the rising trend of health-conscious and environmentally-friendly diets, there has been a growing demand for meat substitutes in the region. This demand has been further supported by favorable government policies promoting sustainable and plant-based diets. Additionally, the economic stability and increasing disposable income in Southern European countries have led to higher consumer spending on alternative protein sources, further driving market growth. However, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on the market, with disruptions in supply chains and consumer purchasing behavior. As the region recovers from the pandemic, the Meat Substitutes Market is expected to witness significant growth due to the increasing focus on sustainability and healthy eating habits.

Data coverage:

The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the total consumer spending on food, which comprises all private household spending on food that is meant for at-home consumption (out-of-home consumption is not accounted for).

Modeling approach:

Market sizes are determined through a top-down approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use resources from the Statista platform as well as in-house market research, national statistical offices, international institutions, trade associations, companies, the trade press, and the experience of our analysts. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, consumer spending, and consumer price index. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the exponential trend smoothing is well suited for forecasting the Food market with a projected steady growth. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

Additional notes:

The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year.