Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What defines an ovo-lacto vegetarian diet?

1. A diet excluding all forms of animal products

2. A diet including only fish and seafood

3. A diet excluding animal foods except dairy and eggs

4. A diet including all animal products

The correct answer is: A diet excluding animal foods except dairy and eggs

An ovo-lacto vegetarian diet is characterized by the inclusion of dairy products and eggs while excluding all other forms of meat, fish, and poultry. This dietary choice accommodates individuals who want to avoid meat for various reasons, such as health, ethical concerns, or environmental considerations, but who still wish to incorporate animal-derived foods like eggs and dairy into their meals. The term "ovo" refers to eggs, and "lacto" pertains to dairy, which highlights the specific animal products allowed in this type of diet. This combination ensures that individuals on an ovo-lacto vegetarian diet can still obtain essential nutrients often found in animal products while adhering to their dietary preferences or restrictions.