New research has revealed that Arizona residents benefit from the highest number of grocery stores which cater to those with a vegan diet.

With an estimated 149 million Americans suffering from at least one dietary sensitivity, and the rising number of consumers switching to vegan, organic or dairy-free diets, food sensitivity specialists YorkTest conducted research to find the best states to live in for those who are managing specialist dietary requirements.

READ ALSO: Here are 10 vegan restaurants in Arizona to try

The Food Specialty Index looked at the number of popular US grocery stores in each state which are best suited for those with alternative dietary needs and offer the most gluten-free, lactose-free, dairy-free, organic, vegan and sugar-free products. Montana has the highest number of specialist dietary-friendly grocery stores per capita, beating Oregon, Washington and Wyoming to the top spot.

The top 10 states to live in if you have specialty diets are:

1. Montana

2. Oregon

3. Washington

4. Wyoming

5. Colorado

6. Idaho

7. Arizona

8. Alaska

9. Hawaii

10. Nevada

YorkTest also revealed that Safeways, Kroger, Albertsons, Whole Foods and Publix rank as the top five grocery stores to offer the most alternatives for those with food sensitivities.

Despite its relatively small population, Montana boasts the highest number of the grocery stores per capita with nine Safeways, 29 Albertsons, one Whole Foods, and four Krogers – leading the way in products for vegan, organic, dairy-free and sugar-free diets. 

In comparison, the bottom 10 states to live in if you have a vegan diet are:

41. Indiana

42. Maine

43. Michigan

44. Missouri

45. Wisconsin

46. Kentucky

47. Mississippi

48. Iowa

49=. Vermont

49=. West Virginia

Dr Gill Hart, scientific director at YorkTest, said, “The number of people switching to an alternative diet after experiencing food sensitivity has increased hugely in the last few years. This, plus a recent report announcing 9.7 million Americans have turned to a plant-based diet has seen a steep increase in the demand for ‘free-from’ and organic produce.

“Changing diets and increasingly complex dietary requirements causes great confusion and frustration for many consumers when trying to find food and drink substitutes. Safeways, Kroger, Albertsons, Whole Foods and Publix are leading the way in adapting for shifting consumer needs, and building their reputations as America’s best grocery stores for the food sensitivity market.” 

With 39 years of experience in food sensitivity testing, YorkTest helps families and individuals to identify food causing issues in their bodies, allowing customers to take control of their health and wellbeing.

For more information, and to see the full study, visit: https://www.yorktest.com/us/blog/united-states-specialty-diet-index/