Is the era of vegetarianism and veganism in Poland over? According to the latest figures of the Central Statistical Office (GUS) after six years of decline, meat consumption in Poland increased in 2023. It's a amazing phrase that can change food trends in our country. What is behind this trend and is it just a temporary change?
Meat returns to Polish tables – statistic do not lie
After the period of inheritance, which lasted from 2017 to 2022, in 2023 Poles began buying more meat. According to the Central Statistical Office, meat consumption increased by about 2-3% compared to the erstwhile year. This is the first specified increase in six years, which can announce a return to conventional eating habits.
Interestingly, this increase concerns both red meat and poultry. NielsenIQ study shows that pork and beef sales increased by 4% and poultry by 2%. Pork, which has been the most popular meat in Poland for years, regains its position after falling due to, among others, African swine fever (ASF) and rising production costs.
Why do Poles return to meat?
One of the main factors affecting the increase in meat consumption are prices. The increase in the cost of plant products specified as vegetables and vegan meat substitutes made the meat more competitive at a price. In times of inflation and rising life costs, consumers are more likely to choose cheaper alternatives, and meat has become attractive again.
The COVID-19 pandemic besides influenced the eating habits of Poles. After a period of lockdowns and isolation, many people returned to conventional dietary patterns in which meat plays a central role. Grilling, household dinners or feasts are moments where meat inactive reigns on Polish tables.
It is besides crucial to advance meat producers, who in fresh years have stressed their nutritional value. A greater consumer consciousness has contributed to the denunciation of myths about alleged meat harm to health.
Is this the end of an era of plant alternatives?
Despite the increase in meat sales, food manufacture experts indicate that this trend can be short-lived. Much depends on further economical changes and preferences of the young generation, which inactive show interest in plant diets.
In cities, especially among younger consumers, plant alternatives are inactive popular, although their sales no longer scope levels from highest fashion to veganism (c. 2020-2021). Meat producers must be ready for changing trends, especially in the context of increasing environmental awareness and climate policy, which can introduce fresh regulations on animal husbandry.
What happens to the meat marketplace in Poland?
The increase in meat sales is good news for producers who have faced difficulties in fresh years. However, further improvement of the sector will depend on many factors, including the stabilisation of production costs, climate policy and changing consumer preferences.
Will Poland return to meat permanently? The next fewer years will answer that question. For now, 1 thing is certain: meat has become popular again and its consumption has become more attractive both in terms of price and cultural habits.
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The fashion for vegetarianism is over! Poles return to meat
