Demystifying the Terminology: Veganism Beyond the Plate
While many people colloquially say a person who eats vegan food is a vegan, the formal definition of veganism goes much deeper than just dietary choices. A person who identifies as a vegan adheres to a philosophy and lifestyle that seeks to exclude, as far as possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of and cruelty to animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose. This foundational ethical stance means that for a true vegan, their choices extend beyond the kitchen and into all aspects of life.
The All-Encompassing Vegan Lifestyle
Veganism was established to differentiate itself from vegetarianism, which primarily rejects the consumption of animal flesh while often permitting other animal products like dairy and eggs. The vegan approach is a stricter, more comprehensive rejection of animal use. A person who is a vegan will not consume animal products such as meat, dairy, eggs, or honey, and also avoids hidden animal by-products. Their commitment also dictates their choices in other areas, like avoiding clothing made from animal materials and using cruelty-free products.
What is a 'Plant-Based Dieter'?
The term 'plant-based' has grown in popularity, partly to distinguish between the dietary component of veganism and the full ethical lifestyle. A plant-based diet focuses on consuming whole, minimally processed foods derived from plants. The reasons for adopting a plant-based diet are typically health-focused, rather than rooted in animal welfare. A key difference is the level of flexibility; a person on a plant-based diet might occasionally include small amounts of animal products or be less concerned with avoiding animal-tested items.
Comparing Veganism and a Plant-Based Diet
To better understand the core differences, consider this comparison table:
| Feature | Vegan | Plant-Based Dieter |
|---|---|---|
| Dietary Scope | Strictly no animal products whatsoever (meat, dairy, eggs, honey). | Primarily plant-focused; may occasionally include small amounts of animal products. |
| Motivation | Often driven by ethical and philosophical beliefs about animal welfare and environmentalism. | Primarily motivated by personal health goals and nutritional benefits. |
| Processed Foods | Can consume vegan-labeled processed foods, such as meat alternatives, if they contain no animal products. | Typically emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods and minimizes or avoids highly processed items, even if they are vegan. |
| Lifestyle Application | Avoids all animal exploitation where possible, including clothing, cosmetics, and entertainment. | Focuses on diet alone; does not necessarily extend to other lifestyle choices. |
The Shift in Terminology
Before the term “vegan” was coined, those avoiding all animal products were sometimes called “strict vegetarians”. The Vegan Society formalized the term, defining a specific ethical commitment. The subsequent rise of “plant-based” in the health community offered a non-ethical label for a similar diet. This evolution shows a distinction in motivations—some for animals, others for health. The availability of vegan food means those who are “plant-based” often buy items labeled “vegan”.
Conclusion
So, what do you call a person who eats vegan food? The most direct answer is a vegan, though this term implies a wider ethical philosophy than just dietary restrictions. A more specific term for someone avoiding animal products purely for health reasons is a plant-based dieter. Recognizing this distinction helps avoid confusion and respects the different motivations. Understanding whether someone is a vegan for ethical reasons or following a plant-based diet for health leads to more informed conversations. While the diet may look similar, the intent can be fundamentally different.
For more information on the history and modern definition of veganism, consult the Vegan Society.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a person be 'partially' vegan? No, you cannot be partially vegan in the formal sense. Veganism is a lifestyle commitment to avoid animal exploitation as much as possible. A person who only occasionally eats vegan food or adheres only to the diet might be better described as a "flexitarian" or someone following a "plant-based diet".
2. Is a vegan diet healthy? A well-planned vegan diet can be very healthy and is associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. However, poorly planned vegan diets can lead to deficiencies in nutrients like B12, iron, and calcium, making supplementation and careful planning essential.
3. Do vegans only eat vegetables? No, this is a common misconception. Vegans eat a wide variety of plant-based foods, including fruits, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. The diet is incredibly diverse and can include vegan versions of favorite foods like burgers, mac and cheese, and desserts.
4. Is it rude to ask a person why they are vegan? It is not inherently rude to ask, but it is important to be respectful and sensitive. People choose veganism for various reasons, including ethics, health, and environmental concerns. A polite inquiry can be a starting point for an interesting conversation.
5. What's the difference between a vegan and a vegetarian? The main difference is the exclusion of animal products beyond meat. Vegetarians do not eat animal flesh but may consume dairy, eggs, and honey. Vegans exclude all animal products and by-products from their diet and lifestyle.
6. What is a raw vegan? A raw vegan follows a vegan diet but only consumes food that has not been cooked or heated above a certain temperature (typically 104-118°F). This diet consists of uncooked fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
7. What is a 'whole-foods, plant-based' diet? This is a more specific type of plant-based diet that focuses on unprocessed or minimally processed plant foods. It goes a step beyond simply being plant-based by also excluding processed vegan junk foods and oils.
8. Is there a difference in diet between a vegan and a plant-based eater? Yes, while both focus on plant foods, the distinction lies in strictness. A vegan diet strictly excludes all animal products. Some people on a plant-based diet may allow small amounts of animal products occasionally, or focus less on the ethical sourcing of items like honey.
