Pescetarianism: What's it called when you are vegetarian but eat seafood?

According to a 2020 Economist/YouGov survey, around 3% of American adults identify as pescetarians, following what's it called when you are vegetarian but eat seafood. This dietary pattern is a balanced approach that combines a plant-based diet with the inclusion of fish and shellfish.

Quick Summary

The term for a vegetarian who eats seafood is pescetarian. This largely plant-based diet incorporates fish and shellfish while excluding land animals and poultry.

Key Points

• Term Definition: A pescetarian is someone who follows a vegetarian diet with the addition of seafood.

• Distinct from Vegetarianism: Pescetarianism is not a form of vegetarianism, as fish and shellfish are animals, which vegetarians do not eat.

• Nutritional Benefits: This diet provides valuable nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and iron that can be harder to obtain from a strict vegetarian diet.

• Health Advantages: Research links the pescetarian diet to improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and a lower risk of certain chronic diseases.

• Considerations: When following this diet, it is important to be aware of sustainable fishing practices and potential mercury levels in fish.

• Environmental Impact: Pescetarianism typically has a smaller environmental footprint than a traditional omnivorous diet, though careful sourcing is still recommended.

• Flexibility: The diet is considered flexible and can be a good intermediate step for those reducing their meat consumption.

Understanding Pescetarianism

The term for a dietary practice that includes fish and other seafood but excludes the flesh of land animals and poultry is pescetarianism or pescatarianism. The name is a blend of the Italian word for fish, 'pesce', and 'vegetarian'. The diet is rooted in plant-based foods, such as whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, vegetables, and fruits, with seafood acting as a primary protein source.

This eating style offers a middle ground for people who want to move towards a more plant-heavy diet without entirely giving up animal protein. Many pescetarians also choose to include dairy products and eggs, similar to an ovo-lacto-vegetarian diet. The motivations behind this choice vary, ranging from health and environmental concerns to ethical considerations.

Pescetarianism vs. Other Diets

To understand what makes a pescetarian diet unique, it is helpful to compare it with other similar eating patterns. Here is a comparison of what is included and excluded in several diets:

Diet Type	Meat (Land Animals)	Poultry	Seafood	Dairy	Eggs
Pescetarian	No	No	Yes	Often	Often
Vegetarian	No	No	No	Sometimes	Sometimes
Vegan	No	No	No	No	No
Flexitarian	Sometimes	Sometimes	Sometimes	Yes	Yes
Omnivore	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

As the table shows, the key differentiator for a pescetarian diet is the specific inclusion of seafood while all other animal flesh is excluded. Vegetarians, by definition, do not consume fish or any other animal, making it incorrect to call a pescetarian a type of vegetarian.

Reasons People Choose a Pescetarian Diet

Individuals adopt a pescetarian diet for various compelling reasons:

• Health Benefits: Many people are drawn to the diet for its positive health outcomes. Fish, particularly fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart and brain health. Research also suggests that pescetarians may have a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
• Nutritional Variety: Adding fish and shellfish to a plant-based diet makes it easier to obtain certain nutrients that can be more challenging to get from a strictly vegetarian or vegan diet. These include vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.
• Ethical Concerns: Some people feel that a pescetarian lifestyle is a more ethical choice than consuming land animals, believing fish may not experience pain and suffering in the same way as other animals. It allows them to reduce their support for factory farming practices.
• Environmental Impact: Opting for a pescetarian diet can significantly reduce an individual's carbon footprint compared to a diet that includes red meat and poultry. However, it is essential to consider sustainable fishing practices to avoid contributing to issues like overfishing.
• Transition to Vegetarianism: For some, pescetarianism serves as a transitional step towards a full vegetarian or vegan diet, allowing for a gradual reduction in animal product consumption.

Practical Tips for Starting a Pescetarian Diet

If you're considering this eating pattern, here are some tips to get started:

1. Prioritize Plant-Based Foods: Make fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes the foundation of your meals.
2. Incorporate a Variety of Seafood: Don't just stick to one type of fish. Explore different kinds of fish and shellfish, like salmon, tuna, shrimp, and cod, to maximize your nutrient intake.
3. Mind Your Mercury Intake: Be mindful of mercury levels by limiting your intake of larger, predatory fish like shark and swordfish. Focus on smaller, lower-mercury options.
4. Find Sustainable Options: Use resources like the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch to make environmentally responsible choices when buying seafood.
5. Explore New Recipes: Look for inspiration from Mediterranean and Asian cuisines, which often feature delicious fish and plant-based dishes.

Conclusion

Pescetarianism is a dietary choice that combines the health benefits of a plant-based diet with the nutritional advantages of seafood. It is distinct from vegetarianism, as it includes fish and shellfish, but offers a flexible and sustainable way to eat for many. By focusing on whole foods and making informed choices about seafood, a pescetarian diet can be a healthy and satisfying lifestyle.

References

• American Institute for Cancer Research. (2021). Pescovegetarian Diet (or Pescatarian): May Boost Omega-3 Fats.
• Harvard Health Publishing. (2025). Thinking about becoming a pescatarian? What you should know about the pescatarian diet.
• Health.com. (2025). Pescatarian vs. Vegetarian Diet: What's the Difference?.
• Healthline. (2023). What Is a Pescatarian and What Do They Eat?.
• Wikipedia. (2025). Pescetarianism.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a pescetarian and a vegetarian?

The main difference is that a pescetarian eats fish and other seafood, while a vegetarian does not eat any animals, including fish. Both diets typically focus on plant-based foods.

Is being a pescetarian healthy?

Yes, a well-planned pescetarian diet can be very healthy. It offers the benefits of a plant-based diet while providing essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and quality protein from fish.

What kind of seafood can a pescetarian eat?

Pescetarians can eat a wide variety of seafood, including fish (e.g., salmon, tuna, cod), shellfish (e.g., shrimp, crabs, lobster), and mollusks (e.g., oysters, scallops).

Is it safe to eat fish regularly due to mercury concerns?

While some fish can contain high levels of mercury, it is generally safe to consume fish in moderation. Health authorities recommend limiting intake of larger predatory fish and choosing smaller fish with lower mercury levels.

Do pescetarians eat dairy and eggs?

Many pescetarians include dairy and eggs in their diet, making it similar to an ovo-lacto-vegetarian diet with the addition of seafood. Some may choose to exclude these products, however.

How can a pescetarian ensure their diet is sustainable?

To eat sustainably, pescetarians should research seafood sources and choose responsibly caught or farmed options. Resources like the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch can provide guidance.

Is pescetarianism better for the environment than an omnivorous diet?

Yes, a pescetarian diet generally has a smaller environmental impact, including a lower carbon footprint, compared to diets that include red meat and poultry.

How do you start a pescetarian diet?

Begin by incorporating more plant-based meals and seafood into your weekly meal plan while gradually reducing or eliminating red meat and poultry. Experiment with different fish and cooking methods to find what you enjoy.