[srean]

> One could argue there's more suffering in a glass of milk than a steak

What I find quite bizarre that in India (where I am from) milk is considered ethically vegetarian whereas unfertilized chicken eggs are not.

But the weirdest experience I have ever had was at the main Google cafeteria. One gentleman with a steak on his fresh plate was quizzing the attendant at length to be sure that the mashed potato was vegan. After many months of thinking I found a plausible reason.

[InitialLastName]

I know a number of people who have allergies to some animal products (notably eggs or dairy). Given the growing familiarity with (and catering to) vegan diets, they find it much easier to use "is it vegan" as a shortcut to "can I eat this" rather than interrogate food workers about specific ingredients.

[srean]

We both must be close to the truth which we will never know. My guess was that he was lactose intolerant.

[9rx]

> After many months of thinking I found a plausible reason.

Carnivorous potatoes aren't as tasty?