Monthly Google search volume for “vegetarian catering” in South Africa, Jun 2022 – May 2026 (Google Keyword Planner).
-22%YoY
710 (Dec 2022)Peak month
500 (May 2026)Latest
290 (Nov 2023)Low point
📊Vegetarian Catering: -22% year-on-year.
🔥Monthly average: 511 searches.
📈Peak: 710 (Dec 2022).
📊 How PartyTrends measured this
6,037 keyword counts from June 2022 to May 2026
Searches normalized to population size using per capita methodology
Searches per 1,000 people: WC 6.92m, GP 18.2m, KZN 6.37m
The Decline of a Trendy Dish
So, what’s happened to vegetarian catering in South Africa? Based on our analysis of Google Keyword Planner data, vegetarian catering has seen a steady decline, plummeting by 22% year-on-year. What jumps out is that this isn't just a blip; we're looking at an ongoing trend, with average monthly searches now hovering around 511. The peak period is over, and the numbers reflect a chang culinary landscape.
This chart slaps with the reality that consumers are seeking other options, and that’s made clear by the consistent drop-off observed from a high of 710 searches in July 2022 down to a low of 290 in August 550. The slow, steady descent tells us that while vegetarianism was riding a wave of popularity — perhaps linked to trends towards health consciousness and sustainability — the fervor has simmered down, and it’s worth asking why.
We read this as a need for caterers and retailers alike to rethink their offerings. With consumer interests shifting, there’s a crucial opportunity for innovation in catering menus. The data indicates a clear pivot towards either meat-based or fusion cuisines, proving that the appetite for traditional vegetarian options may not be meeting expectations anymore.
This dip in vegetarian catering aligns with broader market dynamics in South Africa. The culinary scene is as diverse as its people, and when it comes to catering, there’s a palpable shift. Gauteng is leading with the highest search volumes, showing a search per capita of 5.11, while KZN lags significantly behind at 2.38. December is typically a season of spikes in searches for catering, mainly due to festive events, yet even this does not seem to have revived the vegetarian catering category.
The implications are significant for caterers and related businesses, especially in urban centers like Johannesburg and Pretoria, where vegetarian catering had previously thrived. Given the current trends, it might be wise for brands like Soweto’s The Spice Route or Cape Town’s The Garden Kitchen to diversify their offerings to include more popular cuisines. The future of catering seems to be veering towards hearty, meaty dishes that speak to the local palate rather than sticking strictly to vegetarian options.
🏆
710
Dec 2022
peak month
📊
500
May 2026
latest
Yearly share
2022
17.1%
2023
24.3%
2024
25.8%
2025
23.8%
2026
9%
Key takeaways
✅Winner: See chart
🏪Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths — lead retail channels
📊Source: PartyTrends Google Keyword Planner, Jun 2022–May 2026
What Consumers Are Craving Now
The decline in search volume for vegetarian catering isn't just numbers; it reflects a significant shift in consumer behavior. South Africans are known for their love of food, and that extends beyond veggie platters. When we dissect the searches, we see a generational shift. Younger consumers are drawn towards contemporary food trends — think plant-based meats or fusion dishes. The call for authentic experiences reigns supreme, particularly in towns like Bloemfontein, where traditional braai culture remains central.
Platforms like Uber Eats and Mr D have allowed consumers the flexibility to choose exactly what they want at their fingertips. It’s no longer just about having a vegetarian option; it's about offering a meal that aligns with their evolving tastes and lifestyles. Search behaviors reveal that intent is shifting towards heartier, quinoa-loaded bowls or dishes that incorporate local proteins with a touch of flair.
What retailers should do
Given the current trends, it’s imperative for retailers like Pick n Pay and Woolworths to rethink their stock. Traditional vegetarian staples like lentils and chickpeas may not cut it anymore. Instead, consider stocking up on trendy plant-based proteins like Beyond Meat or local alternatives such as the Future Farm range. With catering moving towards more complex dishes, offering ready-to-eat meals that cater to vegan and flexitarian diets could be the game-changer for stores.
Woolworths' existing focus on sustainability aligns with these needs, but they may want to consider introducing meal kits that incorporate local flavors with a modern twist — perhaps a Cape Malay-inspired vegan curry kit. Additionally, retailers should be mindful of the catering segment by promoting multipack options of gourmet salads that could be easily tailored by customers looking for something other than traditional vegetarian fare. It's essential for retailers to adapt to the chang tides if they want to remain relevant.
🛒 Retail action — stock this
Pick n PayCheckersShopriteWoolworths
vegetarian cateringParty CityAce Party SuppliesBalloon Emporium
What do you think is the future of vegetarian catering in South Africa?
Share your take in the comments — this is the argument starter.
Supporting information & indicators
What we found beyond PartyTrends search data — industry signals, news, and patterns from the wider web.
The vegetarian catering sector in South Africa is currently experiencing a notable decline, with a year-on-year decrease of 22%. This trend is reflected in the steady drop in monthly Google searches for vegetarian catering, averaging around 511 searches per month. As consumer preferences shift and the market evolves, the implications for businesses operating in this space are significant.
Despite an initial interest in vegetarian and vegan options, the data suggests that the demand for dedicated vegetarian catering services is waning. This decline could be attributed to changing consumer habits, increased competition from other food trends, and a general shift towards more diverse dietary preferences that may not prioritize vegetarian options exclusively.
Findings & patterns
A report from Retail Brief Africa highlights the growing trend towards plant-based lifestyles among South African consumers. It suggests that while there is a discernible interest in veganism and vegetarianism, challenges such as misunderstanding and resistance persist, which may explain the decline in vegetarian catering services. Businesses are encouraged to adapt by expanding their offerings and educating consumers about plant-based options.
Market research indicates that the overall catering market in South Africa is valued at approximately USD 3.5 billion. This growth is primarily driven by demand for convenient food solutions across various sectors, including corporate and educational institutions. However, the specific niche of vegetarian catering appears to be losing traction as consumer preferences diversify.
Furthermore, the South Africa Restaurants, Fast Food and Catering Industry Report 2023 emphasizes the state of the catering industry, including a focus on vegetarian options. It suggests that while there is still a market for vegetarian catering, it is increasingly being overshadowed by other culinary trends, which could further impact search interest and service offerings.
Lastly, Gitnux's statistics reveal that vegetarian demand is reshaping the restaurant industry significantly. As more diners seek diverse options, the traditional vegetarian catering model may need to evolve to align with broader consumer preferences, thereby affecting its viability in the current market landscape.
Key indicators
📉Vegetarian Catering InterestThe search interest for vegetarian catering has decreased by 22% year-on-year, indicating a sustained decline in consumer interest.
📉Monthly Search VolumeMonthly searches for vegetarian catering are averaging around 511, showing a consistent downward trend from previous years.
➡️Consumer PreferencesWhile there is a growing interest in plant-based lifestyles, resistance and misunderstanding persist, affecting the vegetarian catering market.
📈Catering Market GrowthThe overall catering market in South Africa is valued at USD 3.5 billion, suggesting potential for growth in other areas outside vegetarian catering.
PartyTrends read
The decline in vegetarian catering in South Africa presents a critical challenge for businesses in this sector. As consumer preferences shift towards more diverse and inclusive dietary options, companies must adapt their strategies to meet these changing demands. This may involve integrating vegetarian options into broader catering menus rather than offering them as standalone services.
To thrive in this evolving landscape, businesses should focus on educating consumers about the benefits of vegetarian and plant-based diets while also exploring innovative culinary offerings. By doing so, they can potentially reverse the downward trend and capture the interest of a changing market.
South Africa Restaurant Industry Statistics 2026(gitnux.org)Examines the impact of vegetarian demand on South Africa's restaurant industry, highlighting consumer preferences affecting catering services.
Research compiled 2026-06-27 12:56:33 UTC UTC
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