India Vegan Food Market, By Product Type (Dairy Alternative, Meat Substitute, Vegan Bakery, Vegan Confectionery, Others), By Distribution Channel (Online, Offline), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

India Vegan Food Market was valued at USD 1.44 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow USD 2.50 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 9.69% during forecast period. The India vegan food market is witnessing significant growth, driven by increasing health consciousness, ethical consumerism, and environmental concerns. Rising lactose intolerance and awareness of plant-based nutrition are fueling demand for dairy alternatives like almond and soy milk. Additionally, the growing availability of meat substitutes, such as soy-based and pea protein products, is attracting consumers seeking sustainable and cruelty-free options. E-commerce platforms and supermarket chains are expanding vegan product offerings, enhancing accessibility. Government initiatives promoting plant-based diets and investments in food innovation further support market expansion. According to a United Nations report, 60% of human infectious diseases and 75% of newly emerging ones originate from animals. Increasing plant-based food consumption can help reduce the risk of future pandemics.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Health Consciousness and Lifestyle Changes

One of the primary drivers of the India vegan food market is the increasing awareness of health and wellness. Consumers are shifting towards plant-based diets due to growing concerns about lifestyle diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart conditions. Research linking excessive consumption of animal-based products to health risks has encouraged a transition to vegan diets, which are perceived as healthier alternatives. India has a significant vegetarian population (around 30%), with increasing awareness of the health and environmental advantages of plant-based diets.

Additionally, the rise of fitness culture and social media influencers promoting plant-based nutrition has contributed to this trend. Many Indian consumers, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are adopting veganism not just as a dietary preference but as a holistic lifestyle change.

The demand for plant-based dairy alternatives, such as almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk, is rising due to increasing cases of lactose intolerance. Similarly, plant-based protein sources, including lentils, chickpeas, and soy-based meat substitutes, are becoming popular among health-conscious consumers.

Ethical and Environmental Concerns

Another major driver of the India vegan food market is the rising concern for animal welfare and environmental sustainability. Veganism is increasingly being associated with ethical consumerism, as more people are becoming aware of the impact of animal agriculture on climate change, deforestation, and water consumption.

Livestock farming contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, prompting eco-conscious consumers to seek sustainable food choices. A growing number of Indian consumers are choosing plant-based foods to reduce their carbon footprint and conserve natural resources.

Additionally, awareness campaigns by animal rights organizations such as PETA India, along with documentaries and social media activism, have played a key role in influencing consumer choices. Many Indians, particularly in urban areas, are adopting veganism as part of a conscious effort to minimize animal cruelty and promote sustainability.

Expansion of Vegan Offerings in Foodservice and Retail

The increasing availability of vegan options across restaurants, cafés, and retail stores is another significant trend driving the India vegan food market. As consumer interest in plant-based diets grows, foodservice establishments are expanding their menus to include dedicated vegan dishes. Quick-service restaurants (QSRs) such as Domino’s, McDonald’s, and Burger King have introduced vegan-friendly options to cater to this segment. In addition, fine dining restaurants and hotel chains are curating exclusive vegan menus to appeal to health-conscious and ethical consumers.

Retailers are also responding to the demand by stocking more vegan products across multiple categories. Supermarkets like Nature’s Basket, Foodhall, and Big Bazaar now offer plant-based dairy, meat substitutes, and vegan snacks. E-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, and BigBasket have dedicated vegan sections, making it easier for consumers to discover and purchase plant-based products. As more brands enter the space and product availability increases, vegan food will become more accessible to a larger audience, further driving market adoption.

Download Free Sample Report

Key Market Challenges

High Costs and Affordability Issues

One of the primary challenges in the India vegan food market is the relatively high cost of plant-based alternatives compared to conventional dairy and meat products. Vegan food items, especially plant-based dairy and meat substitutes, are often priced at a premium due to high production costs, expensive raw materials, and limited economies of scale. Many plant-based products rely on imported ingredients, which further increases costs due to duties, logistics, and supply chain complexities. As a result, vegan alternatives remain out of reach for a significant portion of the Indian population, particularly in price-sensitive rural and middle-class urban segments. In contrast, traditional vegetarian diets, which already form a large part of Indian cuisine, are more affordable and easily accessible, reducing the urgency for consumers to switch to specialized vegan products. To make vegan food more affordable and widely accepted, companies need to focus on local sourcing, scaling up production, and investing in cost-effective food processing technologies.

Limited Consumer Awareness and Perception Challenges

Another major obstacle is the lack of widespread awareness and misconceptions surrounding vegan diets. While urban consumers, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are becoming more conscious of plant-based eating, a large portion of the population remains unaware of the benefits of veganism. Many Indian consumers associate veganism with Western food trends and may not fully understand the distinction between vegetarianism and veganism. Since a significant percentage of Indians already follow a vegetarian diet, they may not see the need to transition to a completely plant-based lifestyle, especially when dairy products like milk, ghee, and paneer are deeply ingrained in Indian culture.

Additionally, some consumers perceive vegan products as lacking in taste, nutrition, or variety compared to traditional foods. There is also skepticism regarding the nutritional adequacy of vegan diets, particularly concerning protein and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and iron. Addressing these misconceptions through targeted marketing campaigns, nutritional education, and endorsements from health experts can help boost consumer confidence and encourage greater adoption of vegan food.

Key Market Trends

Growing Popularity of Plant-Based Dairy Alternatives

One of the most prominent trends in the India vegan food market is the increasing demand for plant-based dairy alternatives. With a significant portion of the population experiencing lactose intolerance and growing health concerns related to dairy consumption, consumers are actively seeking alternatives such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, and coconut milk. Brands like Sofit, Epigamia, and RAW Pressery have capitalized on this trend by expanding their portfolios with dairy-free beverages, yogurts, and cheese.

In addition to individual consumers, the foodservice industry is also responding to this trend, with cafés and restaurants offering plant-based milk options for coffee and other beverages. International chains such as Starbucks and homegrown brands like Blue Tokai have incorporated almond and oat milk into their menus to cater to the growing vegan and lactose-intolerant consumer base. As plant-based dairy becomes more mainstream, the affordability and availability of these products are expected to improve, further driving market expansion.

Rising Demand for Meat Substitutes and Alternative Proteins

The growing awareness of health, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare is driving demand for plant-based meat substitutes in India. Consumers looking for high-protein alternatives to traditional animal-based products are turning to options like soy-based, pea protein, and jackfruit-based meat alternatives. Startups such as GoodDot, Wakao Foods, and Imagine Meats are leading the way in offering plant-based chicken, mutton, and seafood alternatives that closely mimic the taste and texture of real meat.

The trend is further supported by international plant-based meat brands entering the Indian market. Companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods are expanding their reach, collaborating with Indian retailers and foodservice providers. The acceptance of meat substitutes is particularly noticeable among flexitarians—individuals who want to reduce their meat consumption without completely eliminating it from their diets. As plant-based protein sources continue to evolve in terms of taste, affordability, and nutritional value, their adoption in Indian households and restaurants is expected to rise.

Digital Marketing and Social Media Influence on Consumer Choices

The rise of digital marketing and social media is playing a crucial role in shaping consumer perceptions and driving awareness about veganism in India. Influencers, nutritionists, and celebrities advocating plant-based diets have significantly impacted consumer behavior. Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok are filled with content promoting vegan recipes, product reviews, and ethical lifestyle choices, making plant-based living more appealing to younger consumers.

Brands are leveraging digital campaigns, influencer partnerships, and targeted advertisements to engage with potential customers and educate them about the benefits of plant-based diets. E-commerce companies and vegan food startups are using direct-to-consumer (D2C) strategies to market their products through social media, offering discounts, free samples, and subscription services to attract and retain customers.

Segmental Insights

Product Type Insights

The dairy alternative segment dominated the India vegan food market, driven by rising lactose intolerance, health-conscious consumers, and ethical dietary choices. Plant-based milk, yogurt, and cheese made from almonds, soy, oats, and coconuts are gaining popularity as consumers seek nutritious and cruelty-free options. Leading brands like Sofit, Epigamia, and RAW Pressery are expanding their product lines, while foodservice chains increasingly offer dairy-free alternatives. The affordability and availability of plant-based dairy continue to improve, further accelerating market growth. As demand surges, innovations in taste and texture will strengthen the dominance of dairy alternatives in India’s vegan food industry.

Distribution Channel Insights

The offline segment dominated the India vegan food market, driven by strong consumer preference for physical retail stores, supermarkets, and specialty health food outlets. Consumers prefer in-store purchases to assess product quality, ingredients, and freshness before buying. Supermarkets like Nature’s Basket and Foodhall, along with organic stores and local grocery shops, offer an expanding range of vegan products. Additionally, restaurants and cafés increasingly feature plant-based menu options, further boosting offline sales. While e-commerce is growing, offline channels remain the primary point of access, ensuring immediate product availability and personalized recommendations, reinforcing their dominance in India's vegan food market.

Download Free Sample Report

Regional Insights

The North region dominated the India vegan food market, driven by increasing health awareness, urbanization, and a strong vegetarian culture. Cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Jaipur are witnessing a surge in demand for plant-based alternatives, supported by a growing number of vegan restaurants, supermarkets, and specialty stores. The region's affluent consumer base and higher disposable income contribute to the widespread adoption of vegan products. Additionally, increased awareness about sustainability and ethical eating fuels market growth. With expanding retail networks and rising influencer-driven promotions, North India continues to lead the vegan food market, setting trends for nationwide adoption.

Recent Developments

• ​In February 2025, SOCIAL collaborated with Veganuary to introduce a limited-time vegan menu across India, featuring plant-based dishes and beverages. This initiative aimed to promote veganism and offer diverse options to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.

• In July 2024, Spice Grill Flame (SGF), a prominent Indian vegetarian restaurant chain, introduced a new vegan menu featuring two categories: 100% Plant-Based Protein dishes made with soy for high-protein options, and Vegan dishes offering wholesome meals with SGF's signature flavors.

• ​In July 2024, Plantaway launched India's first plant-based chicken fillet, the Chick'n Fillet, made from pea protein, offering 19 grams of protein per serving.

• ​In June 2022, Tata Starbucks partnered with Imagine Meats to launch a vegan menu in India, featuring items like Vegan Sausage Croissant Roll, Vegan Hummus Kebab Wrap, and Vegan Croissant Bun, available in select stores across major cities.

Key Market Players

• GoodDot Enterprises Pvt. Ltd.
• Veggie Champ
• Naturise Consumer products Pvt Ltd
• Dhond Green Ventures Private Limited (Wakao)
• Jus Amazin Food and Beverages Pvt. Ltd.
• Life Health Foods
• Piperleaf India Private Limited
• Nutricia International Private Limited (Danone)
• Vezlay Foods Pvt Ltd
• Imagine Foods Pvt. Ltd

Report Scope:

In this report, the India Vegan Food Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• India Vegan Food Market, By Product Type:

o   Dairy Alternative

o   Meat Substitute

o   Vegan Bakery

o   Vegan Confectionery

o   Others

• India Vegan Food Market, By Distribution Channel:

o   Online

o   Offline

• India Vegan Food Market, By Region:

o   North

o   South

o   West

o   East

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the India Vegan Food Market.

Available Customizations:

India Vegan Food Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

India Vegan Food Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at sales@techsciresearch.com