India, known for having the world’s largest vegetarian population, also boasts a significant number of non-vegetarians. A recent survey revealed that over 85 percent of Indians consume non-vegetarian food, showcasing the diverse dietary preferences across the country.
Nagaland leads the list with the highest percentage of non-vegetarians, with a remarkable 99.8 percent of its population consuming meat. This is followed by West Bengal, where 99.3 percent of the residents are non-vegetarians. Kerala secures the third position, with 99.1 percent of its population enjoying non-vegetarian cuisine.
Andhra Pradesh stands fourth, with 98.25 percent of its population indulging in meat consumption. Tamil Nadu comes in sixth, with 97.65 percent of its residents relishing non-vegetarian food, especially chicken biryani, a local favorite. Odisha follows closely in seventh place, with 97.35 percent of its population preferring non-vegetarian meals.
A study highlighted that regions in southern India and the Northeast have significantly higher meat consumption per capita compared to northern states like Punjab. Southern states, known for their rich culinary traditions, showcase a preference for seafood, chicken, and mutton, while the Northeast’s cuisine is heavily influenced by pork and beef.
While meat consumption thrives in many regions, states like Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh top the charts for milk and dairy product consumption. These states have a predominantly vegetarian diet, influenced by cultural and religious practices, and rely heavily on milk-based diets.
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation’s 2022-23 report by the NSSO provided valuable insights into India’s dietary patterns. It revealed significant regional differences in food habits, influenced by cultural, climatic, and economic factors. While southern states and the Northeast exhibit a strong preference for non-vegetarian food, northern states lean more towards vegetarian diets with a focus on dairy products.
In conclusion, India’s food habits reflect its cultural diversity, with states like Nagaland, West Bengal, and Kerala leading in non-vegetarian preferences, while the northern states dominate in dairy consumption. This fascinating contrast highlights the role of geography and tradition in shaping dietary choices across the country.
