In a country where approximately 11% of the population is reportedly vegetarian (according to media giant Stern), it is still not that straightforward to maintain a meat-free diet in Germany. Vegetarians should not be discouraged, however, as there are certainly ways of enjoying trips to Germany ‘ohne Fleisch’ (without meat). As a British vegetarian, it came as a bit of a culture shock having to relocate to Cologne to work for a German magazine, despite not only having studied the language and culture at university but also having spent a large proportion of time there in past. Of course, it is far easier to survive as a vegetarian in the larger German cities, such as Cologne or Berlin, although it is slowly becoming increasingly easier elsewhere too.
Germany’s Increasing Diversity
Contrary to popular belief, German is actually a rather multi-cultural nation, boasting especially large Asian and Turkish populations. According to the 2008 Official German Statistics Yearbook, almost every fifth German citizen has a ‘migrational background.’ Major cities perhaps give the best reflection of this increasing diversity, which is also unsurprisingly evident by a growing number of shops and restaurants that provide more exotic and imported foods. These institutes not only help to enrich the German culture, but also generally cater much more for vegetarians, as it is often more accepted and much more common in these local ex-pat communities.
Food Shopping for Veggies auf Deutsch
Unlike in some countries, such as Great Britain or India, Germany has no food-labelling system to highlight vegetarian products. If you are strictly vegetarian, it is advised that you read the ingredients (or ‘Zutaten’) carefully to any product before buying. If you do not speak the language yourself or are unsure, most locals will be more than happy to help translate for you. Vegetarian ready meals are generally few and far between, although you will probably find that this will do wonders for your health! Quorn or similar products are also not widely available in Germany, although many Chinese or Asian stores will stock Tofu if you are in need of a meat substitute.
Vegetarianism in German Restaurants
The moment that many vegetarians tend to dread in less veggie-friendly countries is a business dinner or lunch with the locals, who often do not share the same dietary requirements. Rather than pass up the opportunity to socialise and enjoy an important part of German culture (meal times are often savoured and far more leisurely than in Britain or the United States), perhaps it would be better to suggest a local Chinese or Indian restaurant. Generally Asian restaurants tend to cater far more for vegetarians, sometimes providing a range of meat-free choices and even tailor-made dishes to suit your personal taste. Never assume, however, that a meal is vegetarian without asking, as in some German restaurants it is not uncommon for even typically veggie dishes to be sprinkled with bacon!
Despite superficial difficulties for vegetarians in Germany, you should never be discouraged from visiting this diverse and interesting country. With increasingly more help and support for the German vegetarian community, it is becoming far easier to lead a meat-free existence here; you just have to exercise a little more creative thinking.
Useful Linkshttp://www.vebu.de/ - Vegetarierbund Deutschland (German Only)
http://www.happycow.net/europe/germany/ - German Vegetarian Restaurant Guide
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