Learn the definition of vegan, what vegans eat (and don't eat), and why plant-based people choose to abstain from meat, dairy, and eggs.

Veganism is the theory or practice of abstaining from the consumption and use of animal products. While some vegans avoid only animal-derived food, many others also exclude any items that use animals as ingredients or for testing.

There are many ways to embrace vegan living. Yet one thing all vegans have in common is a plant-based diet avoiding all animal foods such as meat (including fish, shellfish and insects), dairy, eggs and honey - as well as avoiding animal-derived materials, products tested on animals and places that use animals for entertainment.

A vegan diet is based on plants (such as vegetables, grains, nuts and fruits) and foods made from plants. Vegans do not eat foods that come from animals, including dairy products and eggs. Healthy eating as a vegan You can get the nutrients you need from eating a varied and balanced vegan diet including fortified foods and supplements. For a healthy vegan diet: eat at least 5 portions of a ...

Veganism exists along a spectrum, all vegans reject eating meat and dairy products but some choose not to eat honey or many reject using any animal-based products such as leather or pearl. Most vegans make personal commitments to support animal welfare and reduce causing harm to animals in every instance that they can.

How Many Vegans Are In The US In 2026 - World Animal Foundation