I see so much confusion on this one on social media. As a home-cook using both terms in my writing and posts on Instagram and here on sparkofsoy.com I wanted to write a page to explain the facts on these terms and why I use them like I do.
This post will be super clear and to the point. Vegan vs plant-based, Let’s clear this one up ones and for all!
The terms “vegan” and “plant-based” are often used interchangeably, but they actually mean different things. While they overlap in some areas, their core definitions are distinct.
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences to clear up the confusion.
What is veganism?
Veganism is a lifestyle centered around avoiding harm to animals.
It (often) goes beyond diet and includes choices in clothing, cosmetics, and other areas of life. Vegans avoid animal products like leather, wool, and silk in addition to excluding meat, dairy, eggs, and honey from their diet.
Veganism is in it’s core motivated by ethics—the belief that animals shouldn’t be used for human benefit. Some people also go vegan for environmental or health reasons, but the core of veganism is ethical.
It’s a full-time commitment to reducing animal exploitation in every part of life.
What is a plant-based diet?
A plant-based diet focuses strictly on what’s on your plate.
It includes eating foods derived from plants, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
A plant-based diet doesn’t necessarily mean avoiding animal products in other aspects of life.
The motivation for choosing a plant-based diet doesn’t matter—it’s simply about making dietary choices that are centered around plants.
What do vegans eat?
Vegans eat a plant-based diet made up of a variety of nourishing staples.
Examples of vegan staples include:
Protein sources: tofu, tempeh, seitan, TVP (textured vegetable protein like soy mince), lentils, and beans.
Dairy alternatives: oat milk, soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk, and cashew cream.
Pantry basics: grains like rice, quinoa, and pasta; canned tomatoes; nut butters; and tahini.
Fruits and vegetables: fresh, frozen, or dried, providing flavor, nutrition, and variety.
These staples are versatile and can be used in countless recipes, from creamy soups made with coconut milk to hearty stews filled with lentils and beans.
Can you be plant-based but not vegan?
Yes, plant-based and vegan are not the same.
While all vegans follow a plant-based diet, not everyone eating plant-based is vegan.
Someone might eat plant-based but still wear leather or use products tested on animals.
Can you be vegan part-time?
No, veganism isn’t something you can do part-time.
Because veganism is an ethical lifestyle, you’re either vegan or you’re not.
A plant-based diet, however, can be adopted part-time, such as eating plant-based a few days a week.
What do vegans not eat?
Vegans avoid all animal-derived foods, including:
Meat, (fish and poultry included)
Dairy (milk, cheese, butter, yogurt)
Eggs
Honey
Animal-derived additives like gelatin, casein, and wheyInstead, vegans eat plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
What’s the difference between vegan and vegetarian?
Vegans avoid all animal products, while vegetarians may still consume some.
Vegetarians don’t eat meat, fish, or poultry but may include dairy, eggs, or honey in their diet. Veganism goes a step further by trying to eliminate all animal-derived foods and products entirely.
I have also heard some people refer to veganism as “strict vegetarianism” or “full vegetarianism,” but veganism, as the term is used today, extends beyond diet to include lifestyle choices. This might differ between cultures though.
Does veganism require perfection?
No, vegans don’t have to be perfect, but they do strive to stick to a strict lifestyle.
Veganism is about minimizing harm to animals and reducing exploitation as much as possible.
But this isn’t a signal to say “anyone can call themself an imperfect vegan”. While no one can be perfect, vegans make a conscious effort to avoid animal products in all areas of life, from food to clothing and beyond.
It’s important to understand that veganism is not something you can do part-time. It’s a full-time commitment to living in a way that aligns with ethical beliefs. Being an imperfect vegan does not mean you eat animal products every other day. It’s more about veganism being about a commitment to avoid animal products, while also being compassionate with yourself and understand that the society we live in makes it really hard to avoid animal exploitation in every part of life, for example with medications you can’t avoid being animal tested or foods being produced in the same facilities as animal products. Certain products might contain trace amounts of animal-derived ingredients, or you might unknowingly support companies that don’t follow ethical practices in every aspect of their business.
What matters most is the intention behind the lifestyle. Vegans aim to reduce harm as much as possible, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. Being compassionate with yourself is an essential part of the journey.
Why is it important to know the difference?
Understanding these terms helps you make informed decisions and communicate clearly.
If you’re hosting a vegan guest, you’ll need to avoid all animal products, including hidden ingredients like honey or gelatin. And if someone follows a plant-based diet, it’s worth clarifying their preferences. It’s also good for anyone who is exploring the world of plant-based cooking to know their vocabulary to know what to look for!
Final Thoughts: Vegan vs Plant-Based
Veganism is a lifestyle built around ethics, while a plant-based diet focuses solely on food. Both approaches encourage eating more plants, which can have significant benefits for your health, the planet, and animals.
Whether you’re exploring plant-based eating or considering a vegan lifestyle, small changes can make a big difference.
Try adding more plant-based meals to your week and see where it takes you!