I stood in a cute little California café, which felt like it was plucked straight out of a movie – soft sunlight streaming through the windows, the smell of fresh coffee hanging in the air, and a chalkboard menu boasting all kinds of tempting dishes. I was deep in thought, carefully considering what to order when my friend confidently stepped forward and ordered a cheeseburger. Smiling, she said, "It must be a veggie burger with a cheese patty, right?" I winced as the server handed over a burger filled with beef, realizing that even the simplest choices can be confusing. This experience got me thinking about how easily non-vegetarian ingredients can sneak into seemingly vegetarian options, and that's why I've curated the following list of misleading foods. So you don't have to make the same mistake!
Here's a list of the 11 most popular misleading food items for vegetarian students in the US:
Cheeseburger—The patty is made purely of beef despite the focus on cheese, even though the ingredient list does not mention it on the menu.
Caesar Salad - Typically includes anchovies in the dressing or pieces of chicken in the garnishes.
California Roll - Most of us associate California with veganism, and when the menu only lists the vegetables, it can be confusing. But a California sushi roll always contains imitation crab (which is still seafood).
Ramen Noodles - The seasoning packet often contains meat-based ingredients. You might be very used to the ramen and Maggi packets, but home. Still, most ramen in America is imported from Japan and China. While meat chunks might not be included, the flavourings might contain seafood and other items. Check the ingredient lists or buy ramen that explicitly states it is vegan.
Pad Thai—While this might seem harmless, it often includes fish sauce, even in "vegetarian" versions. Make sure to be specific in your instructions.
Kimchi - Traditionally made with fish sauce or shrimp paste.
French Onion Soup - A warm soup on a cold eve sounds comforting, but this French delicacy is often made with beef broth.
Pho - A Vietnamese staple, although advertised as loaded with vegetables, the broth is often beef-based.
Miso Soup - Continuing the soup broth trend, miso is also usually made with bonito (fish flakes) in the broth.
Refried Beans - Depending on which can you buy from the supermarket or item you order at a restaurant, refried beans are sometimes cooked with lard (pork fat).
Chili - Typically contains ground beef or other meats, even though it may look like a vegetable-based stew.
There are countless more, and it is always a good idea to check the ingredient list when buying something from the grocery store and let the server know your dietary preferences when ordering. Some establishments still consider fish sauce and eggs to be vegetarian, so be specific, and for ease, just say "vegan." When in doubt, ask questions about the ingredients and how the dish is prepared. This will not only help you make informed choices but also educate the staff about vegetarianism.
Good Luck!
Wishing you Health and Happiness,
Shruti
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