Ultimately a plant based diet is less restrictive in definition than veganism,

Ultimately a plant based diet is less restrictive in definition than veganism, as it will allow followers to enjoy meat, dairy, and eggs from time to time, but generally avoid those food groups. Many people seeking to reduce the impact of the meat industry on the environment seek to follow plant based diets in order to cut down on market demand for animal products. While people who simply seek a healthier, better rounded diet can also easily change their lifestyle to adjust to a plant based diet without restricting their food options, especially when going out to eat. Plant based diets include:

• Vegetarianism – A diet which includes dairy, eggs, and honey, but excludes all meat.
• Pescetarianism – A diet which includes dairy, eggs, honey, and fish, but excludes meat from land animals
• Veganism – A diet which includes no animal products. Some vegans will continue to eat honey.
• The Mediterranean Diet – A diet which includes dairy, eggs, honey, fish, seafood, and occasionally meat, but focuses most meals around nuts, grains, fruits, and vegetables. 
• Flexitarianism – Also known as semi-vegetarianism, this diet includes dairy, eggs, and honey regularly, but also occasionally includes meat, fish, and seafood.

There are also plenty of ways to engage in a plant based diet that does not have a formal name. Many people in the previous four decades have restricted their meat intake to white meat only. Similarly, many families wishing to reduce their impact will commit to making plant based dinner for a certain number of nights throughout the week. 

The common denominator around all plant based diets is the focus on “plant-power” or getting vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients into their diet without relying on animal products. While veganism can feel like a massive step for many people, plant based diets provide excellent options for people looking to do good without committing to the complete exclusion of animal products from their diet. Both vegans and folks on plant based diets can agree, the power of plants is incredible!