Veganism is on the rise. It is reported that around 600,000 (3%) people, which is approximately 3% of the UK population, now opt for a plant-based diet. Indeed, the uptake of Veganuary in 2022 would back up these reports with some 620,000 people signing up to take part in their January 2022 campaign. This is a noticeable rise from previous years; 2020 had around 400,000 rising to 500,000 in 2021.

NOTE: This blog was updated on 5th March 2024 with – According to the latest research, In 2023, 700,000 People Worldwide Signed Up for a Veganuary.

So, it is clear the number of people opting for a Vegan diet is rising year on year. Statistics show the increase is more significant in the younger generation; perhaps they are leading the trend because of the marked increase in vegan-based diets and food information available on the internet. But, many older people are also moving toward meat-free food consumption.

Further proof of the shift towards a more eco-friendly diet is the number of brands and supermarket chains increasing their vegan ranges. All major supermarkets now offer a wide range of vegan products, and their lists are growing. Indeed, McDonald’s has also launched the “McPlant” burger: a vegan-friendly patty, complete with vegan cheese and cheese sauce. The fast-food outlet has introduced this meat-free option in many UK outlets.

The demand for Vegan products doesn’t stop at meals; demand for vegan snacks and sweets is also growing. The popular vegan magazine Vegan Food And Living also predicted at the end of 2020 that more and more major confectionery brands would release vegan sweets in 2021. According to the magazine, vegan chocolate recipe internet searches increased by 31% in 2020.

Excel Vending is introducing more plant-based vegan-friendly options into our vending machines in response to this demand. Today, we introduce you to one of these products, Cre&m Wafer Bars from Love Raw. Currently, there are three flavours; M:lk Choc, White Choc and Salted Caramel. Early indications suggest they are a very popular addition to the range. You even have the chance to win a case of your favourite flavour by entering our competitions running on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

We will continue to bring more healthy choices, vegan-friendly and Gluten-free products to our machines in the future. For now, we hope you will try and enjoy the Love Raw options.