This is how Hungarians eat lunch – we are still a meat-eating nation

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 07. 10. 13:01

A recent domestic study revealed how Hungarian food culture has (not) changed in the 21st century. The survey clearly revealed that meat is still an integral part of meals and plays a central role on the table in Hungarian households. The favorite dishes of those surveyed are meat soup and goulash, and only 6 percent of them list salads and vegetables as their preferred foods. In addition, sustainability has already infiltrated everyday life, which shows that environmental awareness is receiving increasing attention.

Hungarian eating habits in 2025 will still be much more similar to traditions than to today’s Western European trends – this is revealed by the national representative study conducted by POLCZ FOOD with the participation of 1,200 people. Meat consumption is undoubtedly part of the national identity in Hungary, as are hearty dishes made with paprika and fat. The role of fresh vegetables and salads in meals is still far behind that of traditional dishes.

“In Hungarian food culture, meat is an almost obligatory element of main courses, but also of soups and vegetable dishes. This custom has persisted despite the fact that the demand for sustainability or lighter dishes has also increased,”

– said Éva Annamária Kertész, CEO of POLCZ FOOD.

Meat on the Hungarian table – a matter of tradition or taste?

Hungarians excelled in meat consumption even in the 20th century – according to the 2024 outlook of the Oeconomus Economic Research Foundation, its peak was in the period between 1987-1989, when an average of 120 kg of meat was consumed per capita per year. This amount decreased to 82 kg by 2021, but even this was enough for the top quarter of the nations that consume the most meat.

According to the recent survey, nearly half of those surveyed consider at least one meat-dominant dish their favorite, 46.23 percent prefer a meat-containing single-dish meal, but similar dishes were also at the top in other categories – such as soups and pasta dishes: the most popular are meat broth and goulash soup, but meat is also added to spaghetti in most households. In contrast, vegetable consumption is an almost negligible element of lunches. 6 percent of those surveyed listed salads and vegetables as their preferred dishes. That is why it is important that, while maintaining traditions, more balanced, plant-based alternatives also find space.

In addition to classic meat dishes, POLCZ’s offer also includes single-dish meals rich in vegetables, which are not only nutritious but also provide an adequate source of dietary fiber and protein. These recipes can help consumers choose a lighter, yet nutritious option on a given day – without having to compromise on taste or satiety.