How to Transition from Vegetarian to Vegan: Easy Swaps to Help You Make the Change

If you are ready to make the jump to a completely plant-based diet, this guide is here to help.

Tammie Ortlieb / Apr 22, 2025

Food & Drink

Courtesy of Unsplash/Jason Briscoe

If you are ready to make the jump to a completely plant-based diet, this guide is here to help.

Have you been vegetarian for a while now and considered going vegan? This is the journey of many plant-based eaters. Dropping meat from the diet can be easier than eliminating milk, eggs, and cheese. So, a lot of individuals start eating more compassionately by getting rid of beef, pork, and chicken. But at some point, you may decide you would also like to move away from eggs and dairy. Some people make this move for ethical reasons. Others make the switch to improve their health. No matter your why, if you are ready, we’re here to help you transition from vegetarian to vegan with these easy swaps!

What Is the Difference Between Vegetarian and Vegan?

But first, let’s clarify what we mean by vegetarian and vegan. Many people will say they are vegetarian, but they still eat fish. Others claim to be vegan except for their dairy-based yogurt. Who is right? And are we here to judge? Neither of these is an example of the true definition of the terms. And no, we are not here to judge. But we are here to clear up some misconceptions. A true vegetarian does not eat any meat. This includes anything that was once living. If it could slither, flop, or jump off your plate if it were alive, vegetarians don’t eat it. Vegans, then, eliminate all animal products. So, in addition to meat, vegans also avoid eggs, dairy, and honey.

What Are the Benefits of a Vegan Diet?

Are there benefits of a vegan diet? Absolutely! Dropping dairy from your meals can lead to less bloating, gas, and other digestive issues. In addition, some individuals experience diarrhea in response to consuming dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and others. Eliminating dairy can also result in clearer skin and less inflammation in the body. Likewise, dropping eggs from the diet can be beneficial for your health as well. Avoiding eggs can help lower your cholesterol levels and may potentially reduce your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

Courtesy of Unsplash/Deryn Macey

How to Transition from Vegetarian to Vegan: Easy Swaps

So, if you are ready to make the transition from vegetarian to vegan, here are some easy swaps you can use. Try these substitutions in place of your go-to animal-based favorites. These are readily available in most grocery stores. Experiment to find a brand and flavor that works best for you. One product does not fit all tastes and cooking needs. Some vegan cheeses, for example, are great for melting. Others are better on sandwiches. So, settle in, get your shopping list ready, and have fun exploring!

Milk

Whether you are looking to replace your morning creamer or sub plant milk for dairy in your bowl of oats, these substitutions can help.

Cheese

Health up your mom’s vegan mac, enjoy a plant-based sammie, or create the tacos of your dreams with these vegan cheeses.

Ice Cream

If you want to enjoy a bowl of ice cream after dinner (or, let’s be real, anytime!), let these brands help you out.

Eggs

Substituting for eggs can be tricky. But these brands have you covered!

Whole Food Substitutions for Eggs and Dairy

If you want to make the transition from vegetarian to vegan but would like to avoid processed foods, then let a cooking class guide the way. Brownble can help! This online plant-based cooking school offers tips and tricks, community support, and a collection of recipes for all your cooking needs. Learn more at BrownblePrograms.com.

Tammie Ortlieb

she/her

@tammieortlieb

Tammie is the Managing Editor of VegOut Magazine. She holds a BA in psychology from the University of Illinois and an MS in Developmental Psychology from Capella University, with an educational focus on well-being and thriving. She is the author of five independently published novellas and has been vegan for 20 years.