Vegetarians do not eat meat, poultry, or fish. Some vegetarians eat eggs or dairy products. Vegans (vee-guns) avoid all animal products, including eggs, dairy, and honey. People become vegetarians for many reasons, including health, ethics and religion, taste preferences, and concern for world hunger, the environment, and the lives and sufferings of animals. Sensible vegetarian and vegan diets can easily satisfy human nutritional needs, without complicated planning.

New vegetarian? Just thinking about it?

Most vegetarians in the U.S. didn't start out that way. We decided to stop eating animals for a variety of reasons. “You? A Vegetarian?” lists some of them and explains how the Vermont Vegetarian Society can help you move from the SAD (Standard American Diet) to a healthier, more humane plant-based way of eating.

Have you ever wondered what vegetarians eat or how they find time to cook vegetarian meals? How do vegetarians get enough protein? Is a vegetarian diet safe for children? Find the answers in “Common Questions about Meatless Eating.”

For the basics of vegetarian nutrition and tips for making the transition to a meatless diet, see “Getting Started As a Vegetarian.”

United nations scientists present us one quick route to reduce our impact on the environment
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Where can I find a vegetarian restaurant meal in Vermont?

“Vegetarian Dining in Vermont” lists restaurants and cafés throughout the state where VVS participants have enjoyed a good meal without meat, fish, or poultry. Vegan options are noted. You’ll find vegetarian-friendly restaurants in the Burlington area, Stowe area, Montpelier area, or other places in Vermont, as well as restaurants throughout the state that accommodate vegetarians. Due to the rapid changes common in the restaurant business and the inability of the VVS to verify restaurant reports we receive, we suggest you call ahead to confirm the information in a listing before you travel several miles.

Have you seen The Witness? Winner of several awards at film festivals, this 45-minute video features Eddie Lama, a Brooklyn building contractor, who tells the true story of his personal transformation from “tough guy” to animal activist. It all happened because of his relationship with one cat, which led him to reflect on how other animals shared “personality” and are not just objects to be used or disposed of for human benefit. Most of the film is positive and inspiring, but there are some disturbing scenes of cruelty to animals, so the film is not suitable for children.

VVS participants may borrow the video without charge for personal viewing or showing to groups. Send e-mail to ASDonegan@aol.com to arrange a loan of the video.

What is the Vermont Vegetarian Society?

The Vermont Vegetarian Society is a non-sectarian, non-partisan, all-volunteer educational organization providing information about vegetarianism and practical experiences with vegetarian food. We distribute literature on vegetarianism and hold potlucks and other events where people can enjoy vegetarian food and socialize with others who are interested in vegetarianism. We also offer for sale a small selection of excellent vegetarian cookbooks not readily available in bookstores. You do not have to be a vegetarian to be a member, to attend our events, or to be on our mailing list. The VVS is a non-profit corporation registered in Vermont. For more information, contact the Vermont Vegetarian Society, 562 Pond Road, N. Ferrisburg, VT 05473, 802/453-3945; e-mail: vvs@ivu.org.