ANSWERS:

Matthew, age 26: It depends on how you look at it. When you start asking these types of questions, the line between vegetarian and veganism becomes blurry. For me, an animal product is any product that uses animal derived ingredients or that used animals to test the products for safety. For example, a hamburger would obviously be an animal product. If you're vegan like me, a milkshake would be an animal product as well. A leather jacket or fur coat would be an animal product. Certain bottles of shampoo, brands of makeup, or tubes of toothpaste can be considered animal products as well due to animal testing on those products.

The important thing to consider in becoming a vegetarian is why you are doing it, and try to stick to your morals. Also, don't be overwhelmed. Animal products are used excessively in our society. Do your best, start slow, and read a lot on the subject.

Liz, age 22: www.peta.org/mc/facts/fsm16.html -- Common animal products found in foods.
vegan-info.com/additives.html -- Common non-vegan and vegan additives used in foods.

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