Ovo vegetarianism ( /ˈoʊvoʊ/) is a type of vegetarianism which allows for the consumption of eggs; unlike lacto-ovo vegetarianism, no dairy products are permitted. Those who practice ovo vegetarianism are called ovo-vegetarians or "eggetarians." "Ovo" comes from the Latin word for egg.
Ethical motivations for excluding dairy products are based on issues with the industrial practices behind their production of meat. Concerns include the practice of keeping a cow constantly pregnant in order for her to lactate and the slaughter of unwanted male calves. Other concerns include the standard practice of separating the mother from her calf and denying the calf its natural source of milk.[1] This contrasts with the industrial practices surrounding egg-laying hens, which produce eggs for human consumption without being fertilized. Ovo-vegetarians often prefer free-range eggs, particularly those produced by uncaged hens.[2]
Carbon emissions associated with keeping hens are less than those associated with cattle, a factor significant to those practicing environmental vegetarianism.
Ethical concerns about the consumption of eggs arise from the practice, not limited to industry, of euthanising male chicks shortly after birth.[2][3] Practices considered humane for animal euthanasia include maceration and suffocation using carbon dioxide.[2][4]
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