Vegan vs. Vegetarian

Vegans and vegetarians both self-identify as not eating meat. Vegans also avoid all animal products, including eggs and dairy, as well as non-edible animal products such as leather or wool. Vegetarians, on the other hand, often eat eggs and dairy products.

Veganism is more of a lifestyle than a diet. It requires abstaining from all animal products, whether edible or not. Vegans do not eat meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs, or honey. They avoid animal-based textiles such as silk, wool, and leather. Vegans often avoid any products tested on animals as well. Vegans generally have very strong moral or political views about the rights of animals. They often believe that animals are not here to be exploited by humankind and seek to live a compassionate lifestyle.

Vegetarianism is a diet that excludes meat, poultry, and fish. They may also avoid animal by-products such as gelatin. There are variations of vegetarianism that allow for or exclude certain animal products, such as eggs or fish. The decision is usually based on health, religious, or political reasons.

Vegans and vegetarians usually subsist on diets rich in vegetables, legumes, fruits, nuts, and grains. Oftentimes, tofu is used as a substitute for meat. Overall, vegan and vegetarian diets are as healthy or healthier than their meat-eating counterparts. One concern is certain vitamin deficiencies, which can be overcome by taking vitamins.