What Exactly is a Vegetarian? Vegan? Omnivore?

There are many different ways a person can be classified based on the types of foods they choose to eat.  It can get a little confusing, especially if you’re new on the scene.  The great thing is that there is a name for just about every type of diet choice, as new words are being coined with relative freedom.  While researching this topic, I found some that were even new to me.

I have a degree in biology.  I mention this because I’m thinking of one of my favorite parts of science classes where identifying the scientific name of a plant or animal is required-  using a dichotomous key.  It’s so much fun.  I made you a key for deciding which category you belong in so you can share in the fun. 🙂  Just answer the questions and follow the directions.  If you already know where you fit in, click here for eating style definitions.

1. Do you choose to eat animal products?
   • If yes, go to #2
   • If no, go to #5
2. Do you choose to eat red meat?
   • If no, go to #3
   • If yes, you are an Omnivore
   • If only rarely, you are a Flexitarian
3. Do you choose to eat either fish or chicken?
   • If yes, go to #4
   • If no, go to #5
4. Do you choose to eat just fish, just chicken, or both?
   • If just fish, go to #9
   • If just chicken, you are a Pollo-Vegetarian
   • If both, you are a Pesco-pollo-Vegetarian
5. Do you choose to eat either milk or eggs?
   • If yes, go to #6
   • If no, go to #7
6. Do you choose to eat just milk, just eggs, or both?
   • If just milk, you are a Lacto-vegetarian
   • If just eggs, you are an Ovo-vegetarian
   • If both, you are a Lacto-ovo-vegetarian
7. Do you choose to eat cooked food?
   • If yes, go to #8
   • If no, you are a Raw Foodist
8. Do you choose to eat processed foods?
   • If yes, you are a Vegan
   • If no, you are a Macrobiotic
9. Do you choose to eat either milk or eggs?
   • If yes,you are a Pescatarian
   • If no, go to #10
10. Do you choose to eat processed foods?
    • If yes, you are Your Own Kind  🙂
    • If no, you are a Macrobiotic

I’ve probably forgotten some.  If you belong to a group of eaters that isn’t recognized here, feel free to let me know and I’ll correct my key!