Top 7 Pizza

Traditional pizza typically features a simple combination of tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings. Despite its basic ingredients, pizza has been a beloved dish for centuries, constantly evolving with innovative recipes. Curious about which nations enjoy pizza the most? A journey across continents will reveal the answer. Here’s an overview of global pizza consumption.

1. Norway

Surprisingly, the country with the highest pizza consumption per capita is not Italy or the United States, but Norway. On average, citizens of this Scandinavian nation eat approximately 11.4 kilograms (25 pounds) of pizza each year. The popularity of pizza, particularly frozen varieties, has surged in cities like Oslo. Due to a limited variety of fresh food options, it is common for Norwegians to keep pizza in their freezers.

As for unique pizza toppings, Norwegians often experiment with unconventional ingredients such as salad and sweet corn. Adding cabbage and slaw can give the pizza a refreshing twist, making it a perfect summer dish. You may also encounter Norwegian pizzas adorned with paprika and oregano.

2. The United States

Since its introduction to the U.S. in the late 19th century, pizza has become a cultural staple across the nation. Local pizzerias, chain restaurants, and frozen varieties are available in almost every grocery store. Are you aware of your pizza consumption? Studies indicate the average American savors 180 slices yearly, or about 15 slices each month. The style of pizza varies widely depending on the region.

New Yorkers pride themselves on their thin-crust pizzas that are easy to fold, while Chicagoans favor their classic deep-dish style. Additionally, St. Louis pizza is known for its unique square shape, yeast-free crust, and Provel cheese.

3. Canada

Even though pizza is immensely popular in the U.S., Canadians consume slightly more pizza per person. Pizza gained traction in Canada following World War II and continues to be a favorite. The harsh winters make a warm slice of pizza especially comforting.

Canadian-style pizza is characterized by toppings such as bacon, pepperoni, and mushrooms. Regional variations also exist, like the Regina-style pizza, which is 3 inches high and resembles Chicago’s deep-dish version.

4. Italy

Italy, the birthplace of pizza, is also among the top consumers of this dish in Europe. While the exact origins of Italian pizza remain uncertain, historians place its inception in Naples around the year 1500, leading to the creation of the renowned Neapolitan pizza. However, similar dishes have been enjoyed for centuries, dating back to around 1000 A.D.

Neapolitan pizza is a classic and highly regarded variety in Naples, with the Margherita pizza gaining popularity in the late 19th century, inspired by Queen Margherita. It’s not uncommon for families in Italy to gather and make pizza together using fresh dough.

5. The United Kingdom

While Italy is the origin of European pizza, the dish is rapidly gaining popularity in neighboring countries like the United Kingdom. Demand for pizza has surged, especially in London, where you have access to both independent pizzerias and popular chain outlets like Domino’s. Although authentic Italian pizza can be scarce, there are still many tasty options available.

Britons create pizzas similar to those in America and Canada, but some toppings might surprise you. For example, it’s common to find pizzas topped with tuna and sweet corn at various establishments, a combination that remains popular throughout mainland Europe.

6. China

China represents a fast-growing market for pizza consumption. With a rise in sales and an increase in the number of pizza establishments, pizza sales reached 37.5 billion yuan ($5.1 billion) in 2022, with delivery services fueling much of this growth. The trend of convenient meals has contributed significantly to pizza’s popularity.

Major chains like Pizza Hut and Papa John’s have made their mark in China, but local menus often cater to regional preferences, featuring popular seafood toppings like shrimp, salmon, and crab.

7. Japan

Japan also showcases a significant rise in pizza popularity. Recognized as one of the top consumers of Neapolitan pizza outside Italy, this nation is home to numerous pizzerias, making them easily accessible in bustling urban areas. Over the past fifty years, pizza has gained traction in both restaurants and supermarkets, often with a Japanese flair.

If you’re looking for something unique, Japan offers pizzas with adventurous toppings like squid ink dough and octopus. Though unconventional, these flavors come together to create an interesting culinary experience. Other unique toppings might include seaweed, edamame, chili oil, and miso paste.

Identifying the Leading Pizza-Consuming Countries

Pizza is a beloved dish found on nearly every continent, with variations in toppings based on local preferences. Research indicates that Norway and Italy lead the world in pizza consumption. However, the increasing popularity of pizza in countries like the U.K. and China poses a potential challenge to their top positions.