Pizza is a classic dish typically made with tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings. Despite its simplicity, pizza has enjoyed immense popularity for centuries and has inspired countless creative variations. So, which countries indulge in pizza the most? The answer spans multiple continents. Here’s an overview of global pizza consumption.
1. Norway
Surprisingly, the highest pizza consumption per capita is not in Italy or the United States, but in Norway. On average, Norwegians consume about 11.4 kilograms (25 pounds) of pizza each year. The demand for pizza, especially frozen varieties, has surged in Oslo and other cities. Given the limited selection of fresh produce in Norway, it’s common to find pizza stocked in household freezers.
In terms of unconventional toppings, it’s not unusual to see pizzas topped with salad or sweet corn. Adding cabbage and slaw can make for a refreshing dish, perfect for summer. Norwegian pizzas might also feature paprika and oregano.
2. The United States
Since its introduction to the U.S. in the late 19th century, pizza has become a cultural phenomenon. Local pizzerias, major chains, and grocery store frozen pizzas are widely available. On average, an American consumes about 180 slices of pizza each year, which equates to around 15 slices monthly. The style of pizza often varies by region.
New York is renowned for its thin-crust, foldable pizza, while Chicago is famous for its deep-dish variety. St. Louis-style pizza is distinct with its square shape, yeast-free crust, and Provel cheese.
3. Canada
Although the U.S. has a fondness for pizza, Canada actually edges them out in per capita consumption. Pizza gained popularity in Canada after World War II and has continued to grow in favor. Given the harsh winters, a warm slice of pizza is a comforting choice.
Canadian pizza often features toppings like bacon, pepperoni, and mushrooms, along with distinct regional styles. The Regina-style pie, for example, is three inches tall with an abundance of toppings, resembling Chicago’s deep-dish pizza.
4. Italy
As the birthplace of pizza, it’s no surprise Italy is among the highest consumers of this iconic dish. The exact origins of pizza are somewhat unclear, but historians suggest it emerged in Naples around 1500, leading to the beloved Neapolitan style. Evidence indicates that similar dishes date back to as early as 1000 A.D.
Neapolitan pizza is a staple in the region, with famous variations like Margherita pizza, which gained popularity in the late 19th century thanks to Queen Margherita. In Italian homes, making pizza together with fresh dough is a cherished family activity.
5. The United Kingdom
While Italy is the heart of European pizza, the United Kingdom has experienced a significant rise in demand for this dish. In London, you can find pies from many popular chains, including Pizza Pilgrims and Domino’s. While authentic Italian pizza is a bit rare, there are still delicious options to discover.
In the U.K., pizzas are often similar to those in America and Canada but may feature some unique toppings. For instance, it’s common to find pizzas topped with tuna and sweet corn—an odd combination for some, but a favorite across mainland Europe.
6. China
China is rapidly becoming a major player in pizza consumption. The country’s appreciation for the dish has led to soaring sales, reaching 37.5 billion yuan ($5.1 billion) in 2022, with delivery services contributing significantly to this growth. The convenience of pizza is capturing the attention of consumers.
Major chains like Pizza Hut and Papa John’s have adapted their menus to cater to local tastes, often featuring seafood toppings such as shrimp, salmon, and crab.
7. Japan
Meanwhile, Japan is seeing a similar trend in pizza popularity. As the country with the highest concentration of Neapolitan pizzerias outside Italy, it’s easy to find authentic options in urban areas. Over the past fifty years, pizza has gained prominence in both restaurants and supermarkets, often with unique Japanese twists.
For adventurous eaters, Japan offers some unconventional pizza options, including pies with squid ink dough and octopus toppings. While it may sound odd, the umami from squid ink adds a rich flavor, and other popular toppings include seaweed, edamame, chili oil, and miso paste.
Global Pizza Consumption Insights
Pizza’s popularity stretches across nearly every continent, with various versions reflecting local preferences. While Norway and Italy remain at the top of the consumption list, the rising markets in the U.K. and China suggest a competitive future for pizza lovers.
