FAQs and Myths

Whether you're curious, skeptical, or already exploring vegan living, you may have heard some of these questions and myths before. Clear answers to common questions, grounded in evidence and shared with compassion. We've collected thoughtful answers to common questions, backed by clear answers and evidence-based facts, to help guide you with both clarity and compassion.

Important:
Always determine what’s best for you based on your age, activity level, and health status in consultation with your primary care doctor. The responses shared where data is provided were compiled leveraging trusted resources, such as these well-respected teaching hospitals, including Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins, and the non-profit organization NutritionFacts.org. More on them in our Resources section.

FAQs and Myths We Often Encounter:

1. What is veganism?

2. Is veganism just a diet or a lifestyle?

3. Isn’t “Cruelty Free” the same as “Vegan”?

4. What do we eat as vegans?

5. Where do vegans get protein?

6. How common is protein deficiency?

7. How much protein does someone actually need?

8. Where do vegans get calcium? Doesn’t calcium only come from dairy?

9. Where can I get both protein and calcium from plant-based foods and plant milks?

10. How important is fiber in our diet?

11. Why do vegans need to take vitamin B12?

12. Are vitamins and/or supplements required living a vegan lifestyle?

13. Who determines nutrition guideline?

14. How much nutrition training do doctors receive in the US and worldwide?

15. Are vegans weak?

16. Why do vegans say veganism helps humans, our health, and the planet, not just animals?

17. Why do vegans say we could collectively eliminate world hunger by choosing a vegan lifestyle?

18. Don’t Vegans harm or kill wildlife through crop farming?

19. What does “humane slaughter” actually mean?

20. What do “free‑range” and “cage‑free” actually mean?

21. How many land and aquatic animals are killed annually in the US and worldwide?

22. How many animals are used in testing each year, and how many active labs exist in the US and worldwide?

23. What animals are most commonly used in testing, and what actually happens inside testing facilities?

24. Isn’t it expensive to live a vegan lifestyle?

25. Why do vegans not eat animal‑derived foods and foods taken from animals?

26. Why do vegans recreate meat-based and dairy-based foods?

27. How can I recreate my favorite sweet and savory dishes as a vegan?

28. Is it hard to dine out as a vegan, especially when you’re with a group and can’t pick the restaurant?