Tips for getting started
- It’s okay to start off slow. Try eliminating red meat first or try going vegetarian for one day a week, as is the idea behind Meatless Monday.
- If you accidentally eat a meat product, don’t worry or allow yourself to feel guilty — simply start anew the following day!
- Don’t let others deter you. You will likely be inundated with questions and opinions regarding your decision. Take these opportunities to educate others about why you made your decision in an objective tone. Omnivores sometimes feel you are trying to convert them. Let them know that this is your decision for yourself.
Tips for grocery shopping vegetarian
Reading labels can be daunting, but it is something vegetarians must do when grocery shopping. Some of the most common non-veg ingredients lurking in seemingly vegetarian food are:
- Gelatin – Most often found in Jell-O, Gummy Candies (like Starburts) and most name-brand yogurts
- Beef or Chicken Stock – Most often found in soups or sauces that may appear to be vegetarian
- Rennet – Most often found in cheeses
Tips for dining out vegetarian
- Salads are your safest bet, but beware of Ceasar Salad dressing (contains anchovies) and bacon bits.
- Pastas are usually safe, but ask your server if any animal stock is used in the sauce for flavoring.
- Beware of french fries at fast food restaurants. Popular chains like McDonald’s and Burger King use chicken or beef flavoring in their fry oil. Most sit-down restaruants use vegetable or canola oil, but when in doubt ask your server.
Vegetarian Starter Kits
PETA (don’t be scared!) offers a useful vegetarian starter kit. While the organization is often controversial and you may not ascribe to all it’s views and practices, please give the starter kit a chance. It is a helpful resource.
The Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) also has a great vegetarian starter kit that will answer many of your health questions.
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