AboutKevin Johnson Expertise I lived in Germany my whole life. Since I have strong ties to the United States and an active interest in American life, I know the fine differences between the two nations.
Expert: Kevin Johnson Date: 6/1/2008 Subject: Vegetarian in Germany?
Question I hope to be going to Germany for six week in a high school exchange program. I'm pretty shy and I really dislike to be rude or offend people. I'm vegetarian and I don't want to make my host family uncomfortable or anything, but I can't eat any kind of meat (including soups including chicken broth and the like). Is it really difficult to be vegetarian in Germany? Just asking because Germany is known for their great meaty meals. Thanks a million!
Answer Hello Rachel,
There are many vegetarians in Germany and in restaurants and cafeterias it is usually no problem to get a vegetarian meal. Regarding your host family, I would strongly urge you to inform them as soon as possible, preferably well befory you arrive of your vegetarianism and what kind of food you will not eat, since non-vegetarians might not know where you draw the line (what about milk and dairy products, or eggs and food containing eggs (e.g. cake, noodles)?). By informing your hosts early you should be able to minimize any uncomfort about this issue on the part of your hosts.
Most German meals include a side of vegetables (e.g. potatoes, rice, corn, peas, beans) or even a salad. So even if the meal is designed for meat-eaters, you might still be able to satisfy your hunger.
