VEGETARIANISM - THE DEFINITION

Basically vegetarians do not knowingly eat meat, poultry, game, fish or shellfish. Nor do they consume products which contain hidden animal  ingredients or  animal derivatives such as beef extract, soups made with meat or fish stock,  gelatine/aspic, animal rennet, lard, suet.  Even some commercial sauces and margarines contain fish derivatives with some ‘E’  numbers such as E120 cochineal being derived from a beetle and  E542, an edible bone phosphate.    Vegetarianism  could be considered a mind field if not a science  making it quite difficult and sometimes  stressful when catering  for  the vegetarian guest or family member.      

TYPES OF VEGETARIANS

There are four main types albeit individuals will adapt their preferences to suit their own purpose and conscience.  So it is always best to check what the person will or will not eat.

Here is a general guide:
Lacto-Ovo-Vegetarians -  will include dairy products & FREE range (not battery produced) eggs. This is the most common type of vegetarian.

Lacto-Vegetarians - will include dairy products but not eggs.

Ovo-Vegetarians - Free range eggs are eaten but no dairy products.

Vegan -  ‘ the ultimate vegetarian’ - Vegans eat NO animal products whatsoever. This may also include honey, and products obtained from animals such as lanolin  from sheep’s wool, used in cosmetics and  clothing and shoes made of leather.