Being a vegetarian has become more common these days, as compared to the past. There are countless reasons as to why people are choosing plant-based food over non-veg. In fact, we see that these days many protests are also held and 'vegan' rallies, that account for and protest against cruelty to animals, and how we can serve our environment better if we choose to become a vegan or vegetarian.
However popular vegetarianism has become in this age, it's not as recent of a thought or movement. In fact, it dates back to the mid-19th century, when 'The Vegetarian Society' was formed in England. The members of this society considered vegetarian food 'pure', and this was the first step taken towards the movement as we know it today. At that time, food intake also had a lot to do with the class system.
Today, the movement and thought gains momentum also because of mass production. An example would be that of cosmetics, which are produced at such massive scale, just like any other industry. A lot of people who are against animal cruelty vouch for cruelty-free cosmetics. To enhance and support their viewpoint, they also take sides with vegetarianism. At this point, it should also be noted that vegan is a much more restrictive version of vegetarianism, as it includes avoiding using any product which comes from animals, and not just consumption of food.
Also See: 20 Reasons Why Vegetarian Diets Are Good For The Environment #infographic
Even with all the hype of vegetarianism, there are roughly only around 8% people in the world who are actually vegetarians. Have a look below for further aspects and results of the vegetarianism movement.
Infographic by: VisualCapitalist