More than 700,000 people from 228 countries and territories signed up to take part in Veganuary 2023, breaking all previous records. Almost half (40%) said animals were their number one motivation for trying vegan, followed by personal health (21%) and the environment (18%).
A quarter of those who were not already vegan before Veganuary planned to stay vegan at the end of their pledge. In total, 78% of participants who were not already vegan when they signed up said they will permanently change their diet either by staying vegan or at least halving their intake of animal products.
Around half saw some improvement to their overall health (47%), with increased energy (46%), improved mood (49%), better skin (38%) and desired change in body weight (35%) being the most common benefits. Ninety-eight percent would recommend Veganuary to a friend or family member.
Commenting on the results, Veganuary’s International head of communications, Toni Vernelli said: “These incredible results show that Veganuary is so much more than a one-month pledge as taking part leads to lasting diet change for most participants. With 78% of our 2023 participants planning to at least halve their intake of animal products permanently – including 25% who plan to stay fully vegan, Veganuary really is driving positive change for animals, people and the planet.
“We work very hard to equip our participants with as much useful advice, delicious recipes and friendly support as possible, so it’s very rewarding to know that 98% would recommend Veganuary to others. This figure has been consistent for several years, demonstrating the value of Veganuary’s work in making plant-based eating easy and accessible for everyone.”