Test Your Knowledge

Vegetarianism is the practice of avoiding foods from animal sources and instead consuming plant sources of foods such as fruits, grains, legumes, nuts and vegetables. However, there are several different types of vegetarian diets characterized by the types of food included in the diet. They include:

• Lacto-ovo-vegetarian. Eggs and dairy products are included in the diet, but meat, poultry and fish are excluded. Most vegetarians in the United States fall into this category, according to the American Dietetic Association.
  
  
• Lacto-vegetarian. Dairy products are included in the diet, but meat, poultry, fish and eggs (and egg-derived products) are excluded.
  
  
• Strict vegetarian (also known as vegan) No animal-based products of any kind are included in the diet. Excluded items are meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk, cheese and other dairy products. In some cases, vegans may also avoid foods with animal products as ingredients (e.g., lard, beef tallow, butter).
  
  
• Semi-vegetarian. Someone who generally follows a vegetarian diet but occasionally eats poultry or fish. Typically, the diet excludes red meat.