ProVeg South Africa releases 3rd annual plant-based fast-food franchise ranking report

SOUTH AFRICA – ProVeg South Africa has launched the third edition of its Plant-Based-Friendly Fast-Food Franchise Ranking report, timed with World Vegan Month, marking continued growth in plant-based eating in the country and beyond.

The report highlights a steady increase in plant-based menu options within South Africa’s quick-service restaurants (QSRs). More chains are now offering plant-based dishes, including main courses, sides, and desserts, signaling both innovation in food offerings and rising consumer demand.

This increase in plant-based choices is in line with the broader growth of South Africa’s fast-food sector, which has seen a 41% rise in turnover from takeout and fast-food outlets since 2019. 

ProVeg South Africa points out that more households are ordering take-out than ever before, with a greater number of South Africans purchasing fast food in May this year than voting in the national elections. 

The report suggests that QSRs are key to normalizing plant-based options, acting as the primary entry point for consumers trying alternatives to animal products.

Despite this expansion, ProVeg South Africa’s survey of 800 people found a significant gap in consumer awareness. 

Only 31% of respondents knew that specific QSRs offered plant-based items.

A similar trend was reported in the first 2024 edition of the ranking, which suggested that improving marketing and communication strategies could help raise awareness among not only vegans and vegetarians but also flexitarians and other consumers, potentially increasing sales.

ProVeg South Africa has expressed continued optimism regarding plant-based demand in the country, despite the region’s traditionally lower meat consumption. 

According to Statista, the average meat consumption in Africa from 2020 to 2022 was 9.6 kilograms per capita, compared to 78.6 kilograms in North America. 

However, as the economy improves and more people gain access to animal products, South Africa has seen a shift toward a more meat-centric diet.

ProVeg International, which has expanded its presence in Africa with offices in Nigeria and South Africa, remains focused on promoting healthier eating habits and raising awareness about alternatives to animal farming.

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