The key difference between vegan and vegetarian diets lies in the scope of animal products they exclude.

Vegan:

• Excludes all animal products: Vegans do not consume any animal-derived foods or byproducts. This includes:
  • Meat (beef, chicken, pork, etc.)
  • Poultry
  • Fish and seafood
  • Dairy products (milk, cheese, butter, etc.)
  • Eggs
  • Honey
  • Any products made from animal ingredients (e.g., gelatin, casein)
• Philosophy: Many vegans extend their practice beyond diet, avoiding animal products in clothing (leather, wool) and personal care products tested on animals.

Vegetarian:

• Excludes meat and fish: Vegetarians do not eat the flesh of animals, but may consume other animal-derived products.
  • Some common types of vegetarian diets include:
    • Lacto-vegetarian: Includes dairy products, but not eggs.
    • Ovo-vegetarian: Includes eggs, but not dairy.
    • Lacto-ovo vegetarian: Includes both dairy and eggs.
• Includes: Vegetarians typically consume:
  • Dairy products (milk, cheese, butter)
  • Eggs
  • Honey

Summary of Differences:

Animal byproducts: Vegans exclude all animal byproducts, while vegetarians allow some (like dairy and eggs).

Lifestyle: Veganism is often a broader ethical stance against animal exploitation, not just a diet.

Both diets can provide health benefits, but vegans may need to focus more on getting nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are abundant in animal products.