Is Spain Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly

Spain has long been known for its rich culinary traditions, from paella and tapas to jamón ibérico and chorizo. But in recent years, there has been a growing trend towards plant-based diets in the country, with more and more restaurants and cafes catering to vegan and vegetarian eaters. One of the best ways to explore this trend is through Barcelona Food Tours, which provides guided tours that take visitors on a culinary journey through the city's neighbourhoods.

Is Spain Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly?

Vegan and Vegetarian food tours are a great way to discover the food scene, taking visitors to some of the best meat-free and plant-based eateries in Barcelona. Visiting the vibrant neighbourhood of El Raval, where visitors can try vegan croissants, plant-based pizza, and vegan coffee.

Next, try the historic Gothic Quarter, where you can indulge in vegan cheese, plant-based tapas, and delicious falafel wraps; not forgetting Gracia, a bohemian neighbourhood known for its cultural diversity and innovative vegan cuisine.  Barcelona is just one example of how Spain has become increasingly vegan and vegetarian-friendly in recent years. 

Interesting Facts:

According to a report by Happy Cow, a popular online directory of vegan and vegetarian restaurants, Spain is now home to over 3,000 vegan and vegetarian restaurants, with the highest concentration in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia.

One of the most innovative companies is Heura Foods, which offers a range of plant-based meats made from soy and chickpeas. The company's products have been so successful that they are now available in major supermarkets across Spain, including Carrefour and El Corte Ingles.

Another notable example is Vacka, a vegan bakery in Barcelona that specializes in gluten-free and sugar-free pastries. The bakery's vegan croissants and almond cake have become so popular that they are often sold out within hours of opening.

Sustainability:

In addition to the rise in vegan and vegetarian eateries, there has also been a growing awareness of the environmental and ethical impact of food production. This has led to an increase in organic and locally-sourced produce, as well as a focus on reducing food waste.

Organizations like Ecovalia have been instrumental in promoting organic farming practices in Spain, with over 5,000 farms now certified organic. In addition, initiatives like Too Good To Go have gained popularity, which allows consumers to purchase surplus food from restaurants and cafes at a discounted price, reducing food waste and supporting local businesses.

However, it's important to note that Spain still has a long way to go when it comes to vegan and vegetarian diets. Unlike in countries like the UK and the US, plant-based options are not yet widely available in traditional Spanish restaurants, and it can be difficult to find vegan or vegetarian-friendly dishes in some regions.

But with the growing demand for plant-based cuisine, it's clear that Spain is slowly but surely embracing the trend towards vegan and vegetarian diets. With initiatives like Barcelona Food Tours and innovative companies like Heura Foods and Vacka leading the way, it's clear that the future of food in Spain is looking more sustainable, ethical, and delicious than ever before.

Vegan & Vegetarian Food Tours

Whilst Spain may still be known for its meat-heavy dishes, the country is quickly evolving to become more vegan and vegetarian-friendly. From innovative startups to guided food tours, there are now countless options for plant-based eaters to enjoy in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia. Can't find a tour suitable? Contact tabl. via our live online chat and an assistant will be more than happy to assist you.