Vegan for Good

Fruit

What Does "Vegan" Mean?

A vegan diet is a strict plant-based diet in which no animal or dairy products are eaten - no eggs, fish, milk, beef, etc. People who follow this type of diet are often called vegans. "Strict vegetarian" is sometimes used as a synonym for vegan.

The word "vegan" was created by taking the first three letter and last two letters of "vegetarian." Donald Watson, founder of the Vegan Society of the UK, coined the word in 1944. In regards to pronunciation, the stress is on the first part of the word which rhymes with "tree," although there are reports that it has been pronounced differently in various parts of the globe.

People begin following a vegan diet for various reasons. One common reason is to improve health and well-being. Another reason often given is to avoid the mistreatment of animals. Others may adopt the diet who want to reduce their harm to the environment. As with any lifestyle or health choice, there may be a combination of reasons for "going vegan."