Is Egg Veg Or Non-Veg? Let’s Hear What The Science Says!

Here's the most-asked question of the century: is an egg a vegetarian or non-vegetarian food?

This question is a topic of debate for several people, but eggs have been considered a non-vegetarian food for centuries. However, more and more recent claims are leaning toward the opposite end—that eggs are, in fact, vegetarian, with several facts backing this claim. 

By definition, vegetarian food does not consist of any animal meat or fish. In that sense, eggs are considered vegetarian as they don't contain any type of flesh. Yet, in several regions, people consider eggs a non-vegetarian food. This is especially the case for spiritual or religious people.

Today, we will examine eggs, vegetarian food, and non-vegetarian food from a scientific perspective and end the debate! Keep reading!

Table of Contents

1. Did You Know Eggs Are Of Different Types Based On How They Are Produced?

2. Are Eggs Scientifically Veg Or Non-Veg? Let’s Find Out

3. Are Eggs Veg or Non-Veg in India?

4. Is Egg White Veg or Non-Veg?

5. Dietitian's Recommendation

6. The Final Say

7. FAQs

8. References

Did You Know Eggs Are Of Different Types Based On How They Are Produced?

There are several types of eggs in the world. Today, we will focus on the two broadest categories: fertilised and unfertilised eggs.

1. Fertilised Eggs

Fertilised eggs result from the mating of a hen and a rooster. In this process, the rooster's sperm fertilises the hen's ovum before forming the egg. These eggs can develop into chicks if incubated properly. Fertilised eggs are primarily found on farms that raise both hens and roosters. These eggs are not typically sold in grocery stores for consumption, as most commercial egg production focuses on unfertilised eggs. However, certain cultures or organic farming practices use fertilised eggs for people hatching chicks or seeking a natural option.

2. Unfertilised Eggs

Unfertilised eggs are produced by hens without mating with a rooster. These eggs are the predominant choice for customers and are sold widely in grocery stores. Unfertilised eggs can be stored easily without developing into chicks, allowing for a longer shelf life. They are widely used for cooking and baking in most parts of the world—including omelettes, cakes, and pastries.

The nutritional content of fertilised and unfertilised eggs is similar, including protein, fats, and other essential nutrients. 

Also Read: Egg Diet: Types, Effect and Recipes

Are Eggs Scientifically Veg Or Non-Veg? Let’s Find Out

According to science, unfertilised eggs are considered vegetarian because they don't contain animal flesh and do not have the embryo that could develop into a chick.

An egg has three components: albumen (egg white), yolk, and eggshell. The white of an egg, or albumen, consists of more than half the egg's protein and nutrients like sodium and potassium. There are no animal cells in it. Therefore, egg whites are considered vegetarian, and any dish that uses egg whites is vegetarian. On the other hand, most of the egg yolk is a suspension of cholesterol, fat, and protein in water. However, the yolk is considered non-veg because the reproductive cells, called gamete cells, cannot be separated from the yellow component.

Some vegetarians, called lacto-vegetarians, exclude all animal flesh but may consume eggs. However, strict vegetarians do not eat eggs either. Vegan people exclude all animal products, including eggs and dairy products.

From a biological perspective, the key factor in determining whether something is vegetarian or non-vegetarian is its origin. Since eggs come from animals and can develop into living beings, they fall into the non-vegetarian category despite being often consumed in vegetarian diets.

In summary, while eggs are sometimes included in some vegetarian diets and are mostly vegetarian according to science, they are classified as non-vegetarian due to their animal origin and potential to develop into living organisms.

Also Read: Why Is Egg Considered A Complete Food? Explore Its Benefits And Side Effects!

Are Eggs Veg or Non-Veg In India?

In India, eggs are classified as vegetarian or non-vegetarian based on cultural, religious, and dietary beliefs. Generally, eggs are considered non-vegetarian because they are animal products derived from birds, particularly chickens. In many dietary traditions in India, especially among strict vegetarians, the consumption of eggs is completely avoided, as it aligns with the principle of ahimsa (non-violence).

However, attitudes toward eggs can differ significantly among various communities and regions. Some Hindus and Jains strictly abstain from eggs, categorising them as non-vegetarian. In contrast, many other communities, including certain groups of Christians and Muslims, consider eggs vegetarian and consume eggs regularly and include them as part of their diet.

The Indian food industry reflects this division with vegetarian food products often explicitly labelled as "veg" or marked with a green circle within a green square. Non-veg food items are similarly marked with a red circle within a red triangle. While foods containing eggs are either marked with a red circle, labelling them as non-veg, or as a yellow circle within a yellow square. Furthermore, egg consumption is often associated with non-vegetarian dishes, and most vegetarians do not consume any dishes that have used eggs, even if they are cakes or pudding.

In summary, while eggs are scientifically non-vegetarian, their classification in India depends largely on cultural and personal dietary choices, with a significant portion of the population viewing them as non-vegetarian.

Also Read: List Of High Protein Foods For Vegetarians To Add To Your Diet Plan!

Is Egg White Vegetarian or Non Vegetarian?

Technically, egg whites are vegetarian as they do not contain any animal cells. The egg whites are the suspension of the protein albumen in water. Nearly 84-89% of egg white’s weight is water, while protein makes up around 10-11% of the albumen. Other than that, egg whites contain lysozyme, ovomucin, protease inhibitors, and other components. Due to being nutrient-rich but low in calories, many people consider egg whites for weight loss in their diet plans. 

So, technically, egg whites and all products containing egg whites are entirely vegetarian.

Also Read: Is The Egg White Healthy? Know Benefits And Its Nutrition Value!

Dietitian's Recommendation

Sometimes, individuals discover blood spots in their eggs and confuse them with the chick's blood meant to hatch. These red marks are meat spots and do not indicate that the egg has been fertilised. The spotting occurs during the yolk formation when the hen's blood vessels burst. 

Hence, when you encounter blood spots in your egg next time, do not feel guilty about ending a life because that is not what you did! Yes, chickens lay eggs without being killed to obtain them, which makes them vegetarian for some people. However, if we see it from a religious point of view, since eggs are the beginning of life, some people consider eggs as non-vegetarian.

Dt. Akshata Gandevikar

The Final Say 

Because of their origin, eggs have long been considered non-vegetarian. However, recent scientific studies are leaning towards the other side: that an egg is actually vegetarian because it does not contain any animal meat. This is especially true for egg whites since they contain no animal cells. Egg yolks, however, have reproductive cells called gamete cells that are inseparable from the yolk, which is why the yolks could be considered non-vegetarian, even in scientific terms. Biologically, eggs are non-vegetarian because they come from animal sources. 

Some vegetarians, called lacto-vegetarians, consume eggs and consider them vegetarian because eggs do not contain animal flesh, and the consumption of eggs does not harm any animal. Strict vegetarians and vegans are strictly against the consumption of eggs and consider them non-vegetarian.

FAQs

1. Why do some people consider eggs vegetarian?

Some vegetarians (lacto-vegetarians) do not consume animal flesh but include eggs in their diet as they view eggs as a source of protein that does not involve killing animals.

2. Is an egg vegetarian or non-vegetarian?

Scientifically, eggs, especially egg whites, are vegetarian. However, depending on a person's personal, spiritual, and religious beliefs, the answer may vary. Biologically, eggs are non-vegetarian because of their origin.

3. What do vegetarians say about eating eggs?

Some vegetarians argue that eggs can be included in their diets as they are not flesh. However, strict vegetarians and vegans avoid eggs entirely due to their animal origin.

4. Are fertilised eggs different from unfertilised eggs?

Yes, fertilised eggs have the potential to develop into chicks, while unfertilised eggs do not. However, both types have similar nutritional content.

5. Are hen eggs vegetarian or non-vegetarian?

All kinds of eggs, including hen eggs, are considered vegetarian from a scientific stand-point. However, depending on a person's personal, spiritual, and religious beliefs, many might consider it non-vegetarian. 

6. What nutrients do eggs provide?

Eggs are an excellent source of protein, vitamins (like B12 and D), minerals (such as selenium), and healthy fats. This nutritional profile makes them popular among various diets.

7. Is it possible to eat eggs ethically?

Well, it entirely depends on the approach and acquisition. Some people consume eggs from humane and sustainable sources, such as free-range or organic farms. These options are believed to promote animal welfare compared to conventional egg production.

References

• https://www.australianeggs.org.au/nutrition/eggs-and-vegetarians#:~:text=Are%20Eggs%20Considered%20Vegetarian%3F,in%20a%20vegetarian%20eating%20pattern.

• https://vezlay.com/blog/egg-is-veg-or-non-veg/

• https://bebodywise.com/blog/egg-is-veg-or-non-veg/

• https://www.dadabhagwan.org/path-to-happiness/spiritual-science/non-violence-and-spiritual-awareness/is-egg-vegetarian/

• https://yourviews.mindstick.com/story/3247/is-egg-veg-or-non-veg

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