Can Vegans Eat Century Eggs?

Preserved Century Egg – an intriguing delicacy of Chinese origin. With its unique flavor, the Century Egg is a favorite among many for its tasty and healthy attributes. However, for vegetarians, the question remains: “Can vegetarians eat Century Eggs?” Let’s explore the answer in the article below!

1 What is a Century Egg?

Also known as Preserved Egg, Hundred-Year Egg, or Millennium Egg, this delicacy has its roots in China. Through cultural exchanges, it has made its way to Vietnam, where it has gained quite a following.

Century Eggs are created through a fermentation process that takes 2-3 months or longer. They are made by coating eggs in a mixture of lime, ash, salt, and rice hulls, resulting in a unique transformation.

The outer shell turns black, sometimes with intricate patterns, while the yolk becomes gray or dark green with a creamy texture and a strong aroma. While it may take some getting used to, the Century Egg offers a distinctive and delightful flavor once acquired.

2 Benefits of Century Eggs

Beyond its intriguing taste, the Century Egg boasts an impressive nutritional profile. Rich in protein and amino acids, it strengthens the respiratory system and boosts immunity, guarding against lung and respiratory tract infections.

Additionally, Century Eggs are effective in promoting blood coagulation by stimulating the production of new red blood cells. This makes them beneficial for women with irregular menstrual cycles and those suffering from hemorrhagic conditions.

The eggs also possess detoxifying and cooling properties, thanks to their mild bitterness. They are known to protect the brain and enhance cognitive function. And if you’ve had one too many drinks, Century Eggs can help with a hangover by accelerating the body’s alcohol excretion process.

3 Can Vegetarians Eat Century Eggs?

Vegetarianism, by many definitions, involves abstaining from consuming animal products or foods derived from them.

When it comes to Century Eggs, whether a vegetarian can consume them depends on their specific dietary philosophy and religious beliefs.

Different schools of vegetarianism vary in their acceptance of eggs and dairy products:
Veganism: Excludes all animal products, including eggs, dairy, and honey.
Lacto-Ovo Vegetarianism: Allows for the consumption of eggs and dairy but excludes meat, poultry, and fish.
Lacto-Vegetarianism: Includes dairy but excludes eggs, meat, fish, and poultry.
Ovo-Vegetarianism: Includes eggs but excludes dairy, meat, fish, and poultry.

Religions like Hinduism and Jainism consider eggs non-vegetarian, while faiths such as Catholicism and Buddhism may view them as vegetarian.

With this information, you can make an informed decision about including Century Eggs in your vegetarian diet, depending on your specific beliefs and practices.