Tag: Omnivore vs herbivore

By biological definition, an omnivore is an animal that eats both plants and other animals. A scientific examination of human physiology, anatomy, and evolutionary history provides compelling evidence that humans are omnivores, capable of deriving nutrition from a diverse range of plant and animal sources.

According to the RSPCA, mice are opportunistic omnivores, meaning they consume both plant and animal-based foods. This raises a critical question for many pet owners: can mice be vegan? While a plant-based diet is possible for some species, it requires careful management to prevent deficiencies.

A 2024 study on fossilized teeth indicated that some early human ancestors were almost entirely plant-based, yet modern humans are physiologically different. This biological background is key to answering whether vegetarians are herbivores or omnivores, a question that involves examining both evolutionary history and conscious dietary choices.

According to a 2021 study in the journal *Biology Online*, the anatomical and physiological traits of humans classify them as omnivores, not strict herbivores or carnivores. This evidence supports the long-held scientific consensus that humans are designed to be omnivores, consuming both plant and animal matter for survival and health.

Over 2.5 million years ago, our hominin ancestors began incorporating meat and marrow into their diet, a significant shift from the largely plant-based diet of our primate relatives. This pivotal moment in history raises the question: were humans meant to be herbivores, or has a mixed diet always been central to our evolution?

From an evolutionary perspective, humans have developed as omnivores, a flexible dietary strategy that has enabled our species to thrive in diverse environments. So, **what is it called when a person eats everything?** The answer lies in understanding the omnivore diet and its unique characteristics.