Surprising Things That Are Not Vegan [Infographic]

When you follow a vegan diet, you know not to eat meat, dairy products, and eggs. And if you follow a vegan lifestyle, you know not to wear clothes made with leather, fur, or feathers. However, there are some things on your shopping list that may not be as vegan as you thought they were. Animal products are used in so many of the things we use daily that it is almost impossible to avoid them altogether.

But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try. You may have to become a vegan detective to get most of these out of your diet. Learning what to look for on labels and what type of products are likely to have secret non-vegan ingredients is the first step.

Download this guide to help you suss out where animal products may be hiding in your home.

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Vegan or Not Vegan?

For some, avoiding these products is extreme, since you are not actually eating an animal product, and these are by-products of other’s use of animals. I get that, I’ve even gone that route. As an experienced vegan, I know to ask if the beans have meat or lard in them. Not because I don’t want to eat an animal product, but because doing so is very likely to cause me some serious stomach issues.

And, there are plenty of vegan substitutes for these products. So, if part of your goal in becoming vegan is to eliminate your use of animal products, keep this information in mind as you refine your vegan diet and lifestyle. Your conscience, and in some cases your stomach, will thank you.

The Honey Controversy: Why Some Vegans Don’t Eat Honey

For some, being vegan is more than a diet, it’s a way of life. The strict definition of vegan reads: a person who does not eat or use animal products. That being said, there are many levels of vegan, and not every vegan is the same.

Some super strict vegans don’t eat honey. They feel commercial honeybees are exploited in much the same way cows, chicken, and other animals are. Another subset of vegans believe eating locally, ethically produced honey is just fine.

Is It Possible to be 100% Vegan?

Some say 95% vegan is good enough, and some say it is too much. Some only worry about food and not about clothes and other products. And others strive to make that last 5% to reach 100%. Which is better? 🤷‍♀️ In my opinion, any action that causes fewer animals to be harmed is fine with me. It’s a personal choice.