The A-Z of vegetarianism
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The i's have it ...
Ice cream: The basic ingredients of ice cream are fat, milk solids, sugar, air, stabilisers and emulsifiers. Unfortunately it might also occasionally contain animal fats and gelatine so it is important to check the ingredients if possible. When in doubt, just look for the Vegetarian Society Approved symbol. See Ice Cream
Iced tea: A cold tea drink often served in a glass, considered especially refreshing during the hot summer months (whenever they are). Made without milk, but often with sugar and a slice of lemon or other flavourings. Not to be confused with Ice T, a Grammy award winning rapper and actor, real name Tracy Marrow. See Marrows
Imam Bayildi: A delicious veggie dish of Turkish and Greek origin. Served hot or cold, it usually consists of baked aubergines with tomatoes, onion and garlic. Imam Bayildi translates roughly as the “imam was thrilled (or fainted!)”.Try our recipe for Imam Bayildi
Indigestion: A term used to describe a range of different symptoms relating to the stomach and gastro-intestinal system. The most common symptom is pain just under the rib cage, usually after eating. Other symptoms include bloating, wind, belching and nausea (that’s a normal Friday night out for some of us!) Also known as dyspepsia.
Insects: Supposedly the most diverse group of animals on the planet (and that includes Hebden Bridge!), insects are eaten in many parts of the world and commonly used in foodstuffs. Cochineal (E120) is made from crushed insectsand shellac is a resin secreted by insects which might be killed during its collection.
Iodine: An essential mineral for the production of thyroid hormones which control many of the body’s metabolic processes. Milk is the primary source of iodine in the British diet and studies have indicated that those who avoid dairy products may have a low iodine intake. Seaweeds are a good source of iodine, and vegetables and grains can contain iodine depending on the type of soil in which they are grown.
Irish Moss: See Carrageenan.
Irradiation: A method of sterilising and disinfecting foods using ionizing radiation to destroy micro-organisms and insects.
Iron: Not only a contraption for pressing clothes, but also an essential mineral for good health! The bad news is that it’s reportedly the most widespread mineral nutritional deficiency in the world. The good news is that a well-balanced veggie diet will provide enough iron to keep you healthy. Iron deficiency can lead to anaemia, symptoms of which include tiredness, lack of stamina, breathlessness, headaches, insomnia and loss of appetite. Anaemia is more common amongst toddlers, women who are old enough to give birth and some adults over 65 in the UK. Even those who do eat meat get approximately 80% of their iron from vegetarian sources. Iron is found in many foodstuffs including leafy green vegetables, peas, beans, lentils, wholemeal bread, dried fruit, nuts, pumpkin seeds and fortified breakfast cereals. Including vitamin C with a meal (such as a glass of orange juice) can triple the amount of iron absorbed. See Iron facts
Isinglass: A substance often used in alcoholic drinks and some fruit juice drinks to remove sediment and produce a clear appearance. Derived from the swim bladders of certain tropical fish, especially the Chinese sturgeon, it is therefore entirely unsuitable for veggies!
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