Are eggs vegetarian? Let’s see what Sydney-based dietician, Melissa Meier, has to say!
In an article published on Body and Soul, Australia, Meier says the answer to the question “are eggs vegetarian” lies in which type of vegetarianism you follow.
Most people who are vegetarians include eggs in their diet, but are eggs a vegetarian product?
Meier explains, “The answer to that question depends on what definition of ‘vegetarian’ you’re working with. Turns out, there are five different kinds of vegos (yep, five!) – and they don’t all have a uniform stance on eggs. Here’s what you need to know.”
Generally, people who follow veganism do not include animal flesh, such as beef, lamb, chicken, pork, or turkey in their diets. Eggs are not a type of meat, but they are an animal product, which is why some vegetarians avoid eating them.
“If you’re sitting on the fence, I’d encourage you to include eggs in your diet based on their nutritional merit,” writes Meier. “They’re inexpensive, incredibly versatile and are *so* good for you.”
Eggs are loaded with protein, with a couple of eggs offering nearly 13 grams of protein. Meier says that eggs are a source of quality protein with all the essential amino acids. In addition, they provide healthy fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids, which play a key role in boosting brain and cardiovascular health.
Meier explains five different types of vegetarianism and the ones that include eggs, such as:
Lacto-Ovo Vegetarian: People following this type of diet do not include meat or seafood, but include eggs and dairy.
Lacto-Vegetarian: This diet does not include meat, seafood or even eggs, but includes dairy products.
Ovo-Vegetarian: People who are ovo-vegetarian do not include meat, seafood or dairy in their diet, but include eggs.
Pescatarian: A type of diet that does not include meat, but includes eggs, seafood, and dairy products.
Vegan: Vegan people do not include meat, seafood, dairy or even eggs. They completely eliminate all food products of animal origin.
Meier suggests, “At the end of the day, whether or not you eat eggs is your personal preference based on your own beliefs, values, tastes and preferences. Some vegetarians eat them, and some do not.” The story was published online on Body and Soul, Australia.
