Madkulturen’s annual survey of Danish eating habits has just been released. It reveals a renewed interest in home cooking, more children getting involved in the kitchen, and – at the same time – that many people still struggle to include enough vegetables in their meals.

Madkultur25 takes a close look at everyday cooking, revisiting a theme previously explored in 2015. Over the past decade, the overall trend has leaned towards quicker meals, takeaway and eating out. Now, however, this development appears to be slowing and may even be starting to reverse. In 2025, eight in ten Danes once again eat at home-cooked dinners – a slight increase compared with 2022. Home-cooked meals are also widely considered more flavourful, healthier and more satisfying than ready-made dishes or takeaway.

The survey further shows that more children are joining their parents in the kitchen, reversing what had been a steady decline. In 14% of families with children, the youngsters help prepare dinner. The shift is driven especially by children aged 7–17. Among the older children, 16% now lend a hand with cooking in 2025 – a striking rise from just 6% in 2022.

Despite this renewed interest, cooking in 2025 still reflects the fast pace of everyday life. The average evening meal takes 26 minutes to prepare, and three in ten people spend less than 15 minutes in the kitchen on a typical night.

The official dietary guideline to eat more plant-based foods remains a challenge for many households. Three out of four evening meals still contain meat – the same proportion as a decade ago – and many remain skeptical about a plant-rich diet featuring plenty of vegetables and legumes.

Facts:
Madkulturen is an independent knowledge and change organisation under the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries. For the Madkultur25 survey, more than 2,000 Danes were asked about their cooking routines, eating habits and attitudes towards food. This year’s focus is on cooking.

Read the full report HERE

LMW
Photo: Annie Spratt, Unsplash