A typical pizza is a basic recipe of tomato sauce, cheese, and toppings. That said, it has been popular for centuries and evolved with creative recipes. Which countries consume the most pizza? You have to travel to different continents to find out. Below is information about international pizza consumption.
1.Norway
The country that eats the most pizza per capita is not Italy or the United States, but Norway. Residents of this Scandinavian country eat approximately 11.4 kilograms (25 pounds) of pizza each year. It is becoming increasingly popular in Oslo and other cities, especially frozen cities. Fresh food options aren’t as plentiful in Norway as elsewhere, so it’s common to find pizza in your home refrigerator.
Which countries consume the most non-traditional pizza? Don’t be surprised to see pies with salad or sweetcorn in Norway. Adding cabbage and slaw freshens up the pizza, so it could be a great summer dish. You may also see Norwegian pizza topped with paprika and oregano.
2. United States
Since being introduced to the United States in the late 19th century, pizza has become a national phenomenon. You can find local pizzerias, chain restaurants, and frozen pies in most supermarkets. How much pizza have you eaten? Research shows that the average American consumes 180 tablets per year and 15 tablets per month. The type of pizza depends on where you live.
Pizza is the pride of New York because New Yorkers love thin crust and foldable pizza. This style is comparable to the deep dish pizza you see in Chicago. St. Louis pizza stands out for its square shape, yeast-free crust and proverbial cheese.
3. Canada
While Americans love pizza, northern countries have a slight edge. Research shows that Canada consumes more pizza per capita than the United States, even though both countries eat a lot of pizza. After World War II, pizza became popular in Canada and began to flourish. The winter in the countryside is bitingly cold, what could be more comforting than eating a hot slice?
The Great Northern is famous for its Canadian pizza, which features bacon, pepperoni and mushrooms. You can also find local pizza and enjoy local cuisine. For example, the Regina-style pie is 3 inches tall and comes with toppings, similar to Chicago’s deep-dish pizza.
4. Italy
Which European countries besides Norway consume the most pizza? Just look at this dish’s homeland, Italy. The exact origins of Italian pizza are unclear, although historians use some clear information. Experts say pizza was created in Naples around 1500, giving birth to the famous Neapolitan dish. However, records show that similar recipes were eaten as early as 1000 AD
Neapolitan pizza is a staple in Naples, although there are other famous styles. For example, Margherita pizza was made popular by Queen Margherita in the late 19th century. If you have dinner at an Italian home, you may see family members making pizza with fresh dough.
5. United Kingdom
Although Italy is the home of European pizza, the dish is spreading rapidly in nearby countries. The UK is a good example as the country’s demand for this dish continues to increase. In London you can find pies from Pizza Pilgrims, Domino’s and other popular chains. While authentic Italian pizza can be hard to find, you can still find delicious options.
British residents make pizza similar to that found in the United States and Canada. However, there are some unfamiliar ingredients. In the UK, you may find tuna and sweetcorn pizza in a variety of restaurants. Although it sounds strange, this pizza is famous in continental Europe.
6.China
If you’re looking for another fast-growing pizza market, head to China. The East Asian country has embraced the dish, with sales increasing and pizza restaurants booming. In 2022, national pizza sales reached 37.5 billion yuan ($5.1 billion), with delivery accounting for most of the growth. The growing popularity of convenience meals has led to the rise of pizza.
The growth of pizza consumption in China comes from chain stores such as Pizza Hut and Papa John’s. However, the menu varies to suit regional tastes. Seafood-based pies are common at these restaurants, so expect shrimp, salmon, and crab.
7. Japan
On the other side of the East China Sea, you’ll see similar stories of pizza’s popularity in Japan. Which country outside of Italy consumes the most Neapolitan pizza? Industry experts say the country has such a high concentration of Neapolitan pizzerias that it’s easy to find one on a densely packed street. Over the past half century, pizza has become increasingly popular in supermarkets and restaurants with a Japanese twist.
If you’ve got a curious appetite, head to Japan to sample a unique pie. Some unorthodox pizzas include squid ink dough and octopus toppings. Although it may seem strange, the umami flavor of squid ink can create a delicious pizza. Other ingredients include seaweed, edamame, chili oil and miso paste.
Find out which countries consume the most pizza
Due to its popularity, pizza can be found on almost every continent. While cheese and pepperoni are popular toppings, variations vary depending on the country. Research shows that Norway and Italy are the countries with the highest pizza consumption. However, growing markets in the UK and China may provide them with competition.