Many people ask what is the difference between vegan and vegetarian. People who follow a vegan (or strict vegetarian) diet eat only a plant-based diet and do not consume foods derived from any animal product – meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, dairy, or  honey.

While vegetarians also follow a plant-based diet, they may also consume eggs, dairy, or honey.  An ovo-vegetarian diet includes eggs but not dairy products, while a lacto-vegetarian diet includes dairy products but not eggs. An ovo-lacto vegetarian diet includes both eggs and dairy products.

The distinction between vegan and vegetarian may seem simple, but the differences are quite significant. Using the Top 7 Types of Vegetarians as a guide, my husband is a level 4 vegan.