Analysis by the Better Food Foundation, DefaultVeg and Faunalytics at universities shows that the introduction of plant-based meals as the default option – where meat is only served on request – significantly increases the consumption of vegan and vegetarian meals. The data collected shows that this increase can be as high as 55%.
Further elements that can support the transition to a more sustainable and healthier food system are proper labelling of vegan meals (25% increase in consumption of plant-based meals), or increasing the range of plant-based meals served (38% increase).
The analysis was focused on universities, as they play a key role in shaping the eating habits of the younger generation.
The study also highlights the distribution of vegan products in supermarkets. Vegan meat substitutes placed on the shelves in the meat section sold 67% better compared to their placement in a special section for vegan products or for people with allergies.

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