The market for vegetarian and meat-free foods grew significantly in value, by around 15% per annum between 1999-2002. In 2002/03 growth fell to around 8% and Taylor Nelson Sofres (TNS) currently values the market at £606 million, a 2.6% rise year on year. The TNS Family Food Panel estimates that less than 3% of the population are true vegetarians. The most significant group of vegetarian consumers are women aged between 17-34 years old.

In recent years sector growth in the vegetarian and meat-free foods has been been attributed to a growing number of meat reducers and rising concerns on diet and health animal welfare issues.

The four largest segments of the vegetarian and meat-free food sector are pastry products, ready meals, meal centres including sausages, burgers, grills, mince and slices, delicatessen and ingredients products.

Major manufacturers and brands include Marlow Foods with its Quorn range and Heinz with its frozen and chilled meals under the Linda McCartney range. Other key manufacturers in the sector include Cauldron Foods, Haldane Foods, Dalepak, Tivall, Goodlife Foods, Wicken Fen and Redwood Foods.

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