The poll surveyed over 5,000 people and collected data on a range of questions including age, gender and general demographics. Of the people that identified as vegetarian or vegan, 59 per cent were female and 42 per cent were aged between 18-34 years, while only 17.4 per cent were over 55. The study also revealed that an impressive 57.1 per cent had followed a vegetarian diet for more than ten years.

The results of the study, which were released last week, went into more detail by indicating that of the non-vegetarians surveyed, 5.2 percent were ‘definitely interested’ in following a vegetarian-based diet in the future.

According to Elizabeth Turner, Vegetarian Times’ editor in chief, the vegetarian sector is one of the fastest-growing categories in food publishing. ‘It’s a dedicated group of consumers that is growing daily,’ she said.

Bill Harper, vice president and publisher of Vegetarian Times, added that a ‘vast number of people are seeking to reduce their meat intake, creating a rapidly growing market for all things vegetarian.’

Data for the survey was collected by the Harris Interactive Service Bureau on behalf of Vegetarian Times.