If you're a vegetarian in Shanghai, you'll know how difficult it is to steer clear of the animal products. We caught up with Ignatius Lau of the Shanghai Vegetarians Club to find out a bit more about his life as a vegetarian in China.

How long have you been a vegetarian?
I’ve been eating vegetarian for over a year.

Is it tough?
The biggest challenge here is eating out. Although most Chinese cuisines are less focused on meat than North American diets, the term “vegetarian” is still misunderstood here. You may feel safe ordering only vegetable dishes, but then they might use chicken stock or add dried shrimp. Another challenge is the lack of prepared food that many of our club members used to purchase while living in the West. In Canada, I could always eat veggie burgers or soups that were sold in the supermarket. I’m currently transitioning from vegetarianism to veganism, and it’s even harder to be vegan here because so many products that are common in Canada aren’t available. In general, vegans abstain from all animal products and vegetarians from meat. Many of our vegan members experience difficulties even trying to prepare their own meals at home.

Who are your members?
Our group consists mainly of expats who were veg before coming here, but we also have a fair number who decided to start eating vegetarian once they got here. We’re hoping to attract more locals, too.

What types of activities do you do?
We have monthly dinners out, brunches and potlucks. We also invite lecturers to talk about topics that are not only relevant to a vegetarian diet but to pursuing an overall healthy lifestyle, as well.

Are you a fellow vegetarian? Head to their website or shoot them an email to shanghaiveggie@gmail.com.