If you’re a vegetarian, it can be pretty easy to get by. Usually, all you have to do is not eat meat and you’re fine. However, there are so many animal products hidden in different food items that you really have to be aware of what you’re buying. If you are serious about being vegan or vegetarian, look out for these products next time you’re at the supermarket.
Cheese
Often times, cheeses will be made with rennet, which is curdled milk from the stomach of animals. Cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano is, unfortunately, one of those cheeses, making it a non vegetarian cheese. If you want that parmesan flavor, but also want to keep it vegetarian, make sure you read the labels and look up the brands that are certified vegetarian.
Marshmallows
Even if you’re making marshmallows at home, most recipes call for gelatin. Gelatin is not vegetarian at all since it’s made up of animal collagen. You can buy kosher marshmallows that do not contain any though!
Store Bought Pie Crust
Unlike homemade pie crust, the ones you buy from the store are most likely made with animal lard instead of butter, making it not vegetarian. A good solution is just to make it yourself at home which is easily done in a food processor.
