[piglets]

fostermum, you make a very good point about animal-derived ingredients in foods, especially sweets which are easy to skip over thinking they're 'safe'.

I've been a veggie for 20yrs now (almost my whole life!) and have completely cut out cow's milk and most dairy products and always, always check biscuits and sweet foods for ingredients. I actually find it very easy to eat out and buy the necessary foods here but came to the states for the first time this year and found it quite hard when eating out, with little veggie options on most menus. I'm not sure if this is the general picture there or was just due to where I was (California)?

In any case, I applaud anyone who gives up meat, leather etc. It's not an easy step to take but the results for your health and mind are immeasureable. Anyone in two minds, I'd urge them to go for it - what have you got to lose