This document provides information about vegetarianism and vegetarian diets. It defines vegetarians as people who do not eat meat and sometimes other animal products. Demographic data shows the number of vegetarians in the UK has risen in recent years, especially among children, and that more females than males typically follow a vegetarian diet. Reasons for becoming vegetarian include ethical concerns about animal welfare, health benefits, environmental reasons, and religious beliefs. The document discusses vegetarian substitutes provided by companies like Quorn and Linda McCartney Foods. It also notes foods like soup, salad dressing, and tortillas that sometimes contain non-vegetarian ingredients that vegetarians need to be aware of.