Report: Less Than Half of Dutch People Eat Meat or Fish Almost Daily

The latest Meat Substitutes Monitor by Markteffect found that only 46% of Dutch people eat meat or fish almost daily, with 9% mostly vegetarian and 1% fully plant-based. A decrease in the number of consumers eating meat alternatives monthly was also reported.

Price was cited as a barrier to consuming more plant-based foods, with many considering them more expensive than animal-based options despite research indicating otherwise. However, 20% of meat-eaters stated they would be more motivated to eat less meat if it would save them money, alongside increased variety and environmental concerns as potential motivating factors.

While plant-based protein consumption in the Netherlands remains relatively low, sales of animal meat at Dutch supermarkets have decreased. The trend of eating meatless dinners at least once a week is also on the rise, reflecting changing consumer preferences in the market for plant-based alternatives.