A new internet study by Buzzmonitor, a platform for the management of social networks in all channels committed to technology and artificial intelligence since 2013, has concluded that 20% of Mexicans identify as vegan or vegetarian, a figure three times higher than the average in the continent (8%). The study focused on the trends and behaviors of Mexican Internet users regarding healthy eating, on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, as well as on Google Trends.
Regarding the main reasons for adopting these diets and lifestyles, the study concludes that animal suffering is the biggest for the people interviewed. The study found that 10% of vegans look for vegan versions of cheese, burgers, pozole, kimchi, mayonnaise, yogurt, ice cream, and pizza.
A large percentage of people surveyed were concerned about the importation of GM corn, the composition and labeling of foods, the number of calories and amount of sugar, and the impact of artificial ingredients on long-term health. 83% of the people interviewed affirmed or follow some type of diet that restricts or limits them of foods or ingredients, in particular sugar (38%), sodium (35%) and carbohydrates (32%). 59% searched for more products with 100% natural ingredients and 48% wanted to find more organic products. 59% said homemade meals are healthier than industrially prepared ones.
Breno Soutto, Head of Insights at Buzzmonitor, said, “It is interesting to note that the consumption of vegan or vegetarian products is not only done by people with diet restricted by these lifestyles. There is a large group of people who have flexible diets and opt for vegan and vegetarian products, either because they are concerned with environmental issues or the cause of animal suffering.”
