India, celebrated for its large vegetarian population, also has regions where non-vegetarian food dominates. According to recent surveys, 85% of Indians consume non-vegetarian food, highlighting the country’s diverse dietary habits.

Top States with Non-Vegetarian Preferences

1. Nagaland: Leading the chart, a remarkable 99.8% of Nagaland’s population includes meat in their meals.
2. West Bengal: Following closely, 99.3% of residents are non-vegetarians.
3. Kerala: Secures third place with 99.1% enjoying meat-based diets.
4. Andhra Pradesh: At fourth position, 98.25% of the population relishes non-vegetarian food.
5. Tamil Nadu: Known for its chicken biryani, ranks sixth with 97.65% of non-vegetarians.
6. Odisha: Follows at seventh with 97.35% opting for meat dishes.

Regional Meat Consumption Trends

• Southern India and the Northeast have significantly higher per capita meat consumption compared to northern states.
• Southern states prefer seafood, chicken, and mutton, while the Northeast’s cuisine is heavily influenced by pork and beef.

Vegetarian Dominance in North India

Northern states like Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh lead in milk and dairy consumption, reflecting a predominantly vegetarian diet rooted in cultural and religious practices.

Insights from NSSO Survey

The 2022-23 NSSO report by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation highlights regional differences:

• Southern and Northeastern states show a strong preference for non-vegetarian food.
• Northern states lean towards vegetarian diets, heavily focused on dairy products.

A Culinary Contrast Across India

India’s food habits are shaped by its geography, culture, and traditions. While Nagaland, West Bengal, and Kerala lead in non-vegetarian preferences, northern states dominate in vegetarian and dairy-based diets. This unique contrast showcases the diversity in Indian culinary traditions.

Explore India’s rich and varied food culture, where every state offers a distinct taste of its heritage!