The Difference: Vegan vs. Vegetarian
It's a common misconception that all vegetarian foods are automatically vegan. The core difference lies in the exclusion of all animal-derived products by vegans, not just meat and fish. This includes eggs, dairy, and even honey. Vegetarians, particularly lacto-ovo vegetarians, will consume eggs and dairy but avoid animal flesh. For vegans, the commitment extends beyond the dinner plate, often influencing choices in clothing, cosmetics, and other consumer goods to avoid animal exploitation.
Obvious Animal Products to Exclude
For those new to veganism, some exclusions are immediately clear. These are the foundation of a plant-based diet and represent the most significant departure from a traditional omnivorous eating pattern.
Meat, Poultry, and Seafood
- Meat: All animal flesh is excluded, including beef, pork, lamb, and other red meats.
- Poultry: Chicken, duck, and turkey are not consumed by vegans.
- Seafood: Fish, shellfish, and all other marine life are off the menu.
Dairy and Eggs
- Milk, Cheese, and Yogurt: Products made from animal milk, whether from cows, goats, or sheep, are not vegan. This includes cheese, which is often cited as a difficult food for people to give up.
- Eggs: Whether free-range or factory-farmed, eggs are a product of animal exploitation and are therefore avoided. This also applies to egg-based products like mayonnaise and some pastas.
Less Obvious Non-Vegan Ingredients
Beyond the obvious, many common food items and additives contain hidden animal-derived ingredients that can trip up new and seasoned vegans alike. Careful label reading is essential.
Honey
As a product created by bees for bees, honey is not considered vegan by the Vegan Society. The reasons range from ethical concerns over bee exploitation to the practice of replacing honey with sugar substitutes detrimental to bee health.
Gelatin
This is a thickening agent made from the bones, skin, and connective tissues of animals, most commonly cows and pigs. It is found in many desserts, marshmallows, gummy candies, and even some vitamin capsules. Agar-agar is a common vegan alternative.
Whey and Casein
These are milk-derived proteins often used in protein powders, processed foods, and some supplements. As a dairy byproduct, whey protein is not vegan. Lactose is also a milk sugar found in many dairy products.
Other Hidden Ingredients
- White Sugar: Some white sugar is processed using bone char (charred animal bones) for whitening. While some vegans are not strict about this, many opt for organic, unrefined sugar or plant-based sweeteners like maple syrup.
- Carmine (E120): This is a red food dye made from crushed cochineal beetles.
- Isinglass: Used as a fining agent to clarify some beers and wines, this substance is derived from fish bladders.
- Shellac: A glazing agent derived from the lac insect, it is used on some candies and produce to create a shiny coating.
Comparison of Common Non-Vegan and Vegan Products
| Product Category | Non-Vegan Item | Common Vegan Alternative | Reason for Exclusion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | Honey | Maple Syrup, Agave Nectar | Product of bee exploitation |
| Desserts | Gelatin-based Desserts, Gummy Candies, Marshmallows | Agar-agar based desserts, Vegan-specific brands | Derived from animal bones and tissue |
| Protein Powder | Whey Protein | Pea Protein, Rice Protein, Soy Protein | Byproduct of cheesemaking from dairy |
| Cheese | Dairy Cheese (e.g., Cheddar, Parmesan) | Nutritional Yeast, Cashew Cheese | Made from animal milk; sometimes contains animal rennet |
| Confectionery Glazes | Shellac (E904), Beeswax (E901) | Plant-based waxes (e.g., carnauba wax) | Derived from insects |
Navigating Processed Foods
With so many hidden ingredients, it can be tricky to navigate the supermarket aisles. The best practice is to always check the ingredient list. Look for a 'Certified Vegan' label or the Vegan Society trademark. When in doubt, search for the specific ingredient online. Many food brands are now transparent about their vegan options and offer dedicated product lines.
Conclusion
While a vegan diet requires careful attention to ingredients, the principle is simple: avoid all animal and animal-derived products. This includes the obvious meat, dairy, and eggs, but also extends to lesser-known ingredients like honey, gelatin, whey, and certain additives. With a little diligence, it's possible to maintain a fully plant-based lifestyle without sacrificing flavor or nutrition, thanks to the vast array of available vegan alternatives. As the plant-based food market continues to grow, so does the availability of ethical and delicious choices for those who choose a vegan path.
Visit The Vegan Society for more information on adopting a plant-based lifestyle.
