1. Scientific Distinction:
– Mushrooms, scientifically analyzed through methods such as DNA, are neither plants nor animals.
– If mushrooms are labeled non-vegetarian, it raises questions about other fungal products like bread, cake, dosa, idli, beer, wine, vinegar, vitamin pills, and cheese, all of which contain yeast, another fungus.
2. Microbial Nature of Curds:
– Curds primarily consist of bacteria, not plants, yet they are not classified as non-vegetarian by scientists.
– This challenges the notion that the presence of fungi or bacteria in a food item automatically categorizes it as non-vegetarian.
3. Observations in Nature:
– Herbivorous animals like deer, cows, rabbits, and squirrels include mushrooms in their diet, indicating a natural association with vegetarian consumption.
– In contrast, carnivores such as dogs, lions, and cats do not typically consume mushrooms.
4. Integral Role in Human Health:
– Fungi, including mushrooms, play a crucial role in the human gut mycobiome, an essential component for maintaining health.
– Even individuals strictly adhering to a vegetarian diet naturally harbor fungi in their digestive system, challenging the argument that mushrooms make one non-vegetarian.
5. Recognition by Authorities:
– Respected authorities, including scientists, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Indian Vegetarian Congress, and various vegetarian societies globally, classify mushrooms as vegetarian.
– This consensus reinforces the acceptance of mushrooms within the vegetarian spectrum by reputable organizations and scientific communities.
