A survey of 1,000 UK care homes shows a 24% rise over the past decade in vegan and vegetarian residents, with nearly one in three care homes (31.8%) now catering to at least one vegan resident. Other key findings include:
- 8,088 vegan and vegetarian residents in 2024: up from 6,511 in 2014 and 7,014 in 2019.
- 31.8% of care homes now serve vegan residents: a 39% increase in ten years.
- 41.8% of nursing homes serve vegan residents: with a notable 56% increase since 2014.
Vegetarian for Life says the figures spotlight a growing trend among older adults and highlight the need for adaptable care homes as the plant-based lifestyle becomes more mainstream.
Amanda Woodvine, chief executive of Vegetarian for Life, said: “The move towards plant-based diets isn’t just for younger generations. We’re seeing more people in later life adopting vegan and vegetarian lifestyles for ethical, environmental and health reasons. Care homes across the UK need to respond to these preferences, both to meet current demand and to prepare for a future where dietary choice is central to individual care.”
In response to this trend, Vegetarian for Life has launched Gourmet Vegan, a guide designed to elevate vegan dining standards in care homes, demonstrating that nutritious, ethical eating can also be a fine dining experience.
The guide was launched at Vegetarian for Life’s 2024 Awards for Excellence held in the Houses of Parliament on 28th October. The winners were:
- Vegan/Vegetarian Care/Hospital Caterer of the Year sponsored by Middleton Foods: Matthew Thornton, Catering Team, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
- Vegan/Vegetarian Supplier of the Year sponsored by Allmanhall: Vegetarian Express
- Chef’s Hero Product sponsored by Bullseye Food Packaging: Henderson’s Relish
- Most Innovative Vegan/Vegetarian Recipe: Ultimate vegan lasagne, Bosh!