The Core Definition: Beyond the Plate
Veganism is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude—as far as is possible and practicable—all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose. This ethical stance influences decisions beyond diet, including clothing, cosmetics, and entertainment.
What to Avoid: The Non-Vegan Checklist
Exclusions are key to adopting a vegan lifestyle.
Animal-Derived Food Products
A vegan diet excludes:
- Meat, poultry, fish, and related products.
- Dairy products.
- Eggs.
- Honey.
- Gelatin.
- Isinglass.
- Certain E numbers and colorings.
Hidden Animal Ingredients
Many processed foods contain non-obvious animal derivatives like casein and whey. This also applies to items like vitamins in gelatin capsules or some filtered alcoholic beverages. Checking for vegan certification or reading ingredient lists is vital.
Non-Food Animal Products
Veganism extends to avoiding animal products in other areas:
- Clothing and footwear made from leather, wool, fur, or silk. Alternatives include cotton and plant-based materials.
- Cosmetics and household items containing animal ingredients or tested on animals. 'Cruelty-free' certification is important.
- Entertainment involving animal exploitation.
The Gray Areas: When It's Not So Obvious
Some items spark debate, like bivalves (oysters, mussels). Honey is also debated.
Vegan vs. Vegetarian vs. Plant-Based
Understanding the differences clarifies what counts as vegan:
| Feature | Vegan | Vegetarian | Plant-Based |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meat/Poultry/Fish | No | No | Typically no (but can vary) |
| Dairy | No | Yes (Lacto-ovo) | Typically no |
| Eggs | No | Yes (Lacto-ovo) | Typically no |
| Honey | No | Yes | Can vary |
| Animal Exploitation | Avoids in all aspects of life (clothing, cosmetics, etc.) | Primarily dietary; may use animal products | Primarily dietary; ethics and lifestyle depend on the individual |
Embracing a Vegan Lifestyle
A smooth transition involves several steps:
- Read labels carefully for vegan certification or animal ingredients.
- Explore diverse plant-based foods.
- Find plant-based alternatives.
- Be patient with the process, aiming for change 'as far as possible and practicable'.
- Prioritize whole foods.
- Consider fortified foods and supplements for nutrients like B12.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
Defining what counts as vegan is rooted in avoiding animal exploitation. This influences diet and consumer choices. Diligence is needed for hidden ingredients, but plant-based options are available. More on the philosophy can be found at {Link: The Vegan Society https://www.vegansociety.com/go-vegan/definition-veganism}.
