HappyCow Uygulaması Üzerinden İstanbul'daki Vegan İşletmelerin İncelenmesi: Konum, Mutfak çeşitliliği ve Çalışma Saatleri Analizi (Review of Vegan Businesses in Istanbul via HappyCow App: Location, Cuisine Variety and Working Hours Analysis)

Abstract

This study examines the rise of vegan nutrition and lifestyle in contemporary society and explores the effects of this trend on the food and beverage industry. Increasing awareness of health, environmental sustainability and animal welfare has rapidly heightened the demand for vegan options. In this context, the primary aim of the study is to analyze the current status of vegan food and beverage establishments in Istanbul, which is an important tourist destination. Within the scope of the research, a total of 58 establishments were identified through a search conducted on the HappyCow website, an online platform that provides information on vegan businesses worldwide. The search was carried out using the keywords ‘vegan,’ ‘vegetarian’ and ‘Istanbul.’ These establishments were examined in terms of their location, culinary diversity and operating hours because these factors reflect their accessibility, the variety of gastronomic offerings and the continuity of their services. In the study, content analysis, which is one of the qualitative research methods, was employed and the findings were supported by the creation of word clouds and tables. According to the research findings, vegan establishments were found to be more common in areas with a high concentration of young and conscientious consumers. Another contribution of the study is its provision of comprehensive data on the vegan market in Istanbul, which offers a strategic framework for entrepreneurs in the sector. Furthermore, the findings show that these establishments aim to appeal to a broad customer base by offering vegan versions of traditional dishes and that they display notable differences in their operating hours.