difference between vegan and vegetarian

Vegetarians avoid eating animal flesh, whereas vegans exclude all animal-derived products from their diet and lifestyle. While both diets emphasize plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes, veganism extends to eliminating dairy, eggs, honey, and non-food animal goods like leather.

Quick Comparison

Feature Vegetarian Vegan

Meat, Poultry, & Fish Excluded Excluded

Dairy & Eggs Usually included Excluded

Honey & Gelatin Honey included; gelatin excluded Excluded

Non-Food Items Generally allowed (e.g., leather, wool) Excluded (e.g., leather, wool, silk, animal-tested goods)

Primary Focus Dietary choice Comprehensive ethical lifestyle and diet

Types of Vegetarian Diets

Vegetarianism is an umbrella term with several common variations depending on which animal byproducts are eaten.

• Lacto-ovo vegetarian. The most common type, which excludes meat, poultry, and fish, but includes both dairy products and eggs.
• Lacto vegetarian. Excludes meat, poultry, fish, and eggs, while allowing dairy products like milk and cheese.
• Ovo vegetarian. Excludes meat, poultry, fish, and dairy, while allowing eggs.
• Pescatarian. Technically semi-vegetarian, this diet excludes meat and poultry but includes fish, seafood, dairy, and eggs.

Lifestyle and Ethical Differences

The underlying motivations often separate the two approaches.

• Dietary vs. Lifestyle Scope. Vegetarianism is primarily defined by what a person eats. As defined by The Vegan Society, veganism is a broader philosophy seeking to exclude all forms of animal exploitation.
• Animal Byproducts. Vegetarians generally oppose killing animals for food but accept consuming byproducts like milk and eggs. Vegans avoid all animal use, extending their choices to clothing, cosmetics, and entertainment.

Health and Nutrition Considerations

According to Healthline, well-planned vegetarian and vegan diets are both safe and nutritionally adequate for all stages of life.

• Shared Benefits. Both diets are typically lower in saturated fat and cholesterol while being higher in fiber and vitamins. They are associated with a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.
• Key Nutrients to Watch. Both groups need to ensure adequate intake of iron, zinc, calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. As noted by NHS inform, vitamin B12 is only found naturally in animal products, making fortified foods or supplements essential for vegans and low-dairy vegetarians.