SAFE : Vegetarian Christmas

There is nothing better than being prepared and appreciated. If you are hosting friends find out whether any of your guests are vegetarian or vegan. Vegetarians don't eat meat, poultry, game, fish, shellfish, crustacea or any other product which has been made from slaughtering an animal. They also tend to use free-range eggs.

Vegans go a bit further by also cutting out milk, dairy products, eggs and honey.

It's also helpful to remember that vegetarians and vegans, like anybody else, may have food allergies or things that they just don't like. If you're going to cook something special for them, it's well worth a quick chat in advance to make sure that your efforts will be appreciated.

Read the labels

If you're not used to shopping for vegetarians, the main things to watch out for are animal fat, gelatine (which turns up in lots of desserts) and animal rennet (which can be used in cheese). Many E-numbers are also animal derived. Click here for more info.

Curious meat eaters!

Whatever you decide to prepare for your veggie guest, allow for a couple of extra portions because the meat-eaters almost always want some too.

Keep the veges separate

If you're having a traditional Christmas dinner your veggie guests will probably enjoy sharing the roast potatoes, veg and gravy, so cook them in vegetable oil, separately from the meat.

Compassionate celebrations

Beers and wines are often fined or clarified with animal products. This process stops the drink from becoming cloudy. For a helpful list of vegan beer and wine.

A delicious collection of gourmet festive and special occasion recipes.

Traditional and spicy Xmas menus from the BBC.

Tofu for Two shares Christmas cake, confections and more..

A wide range of mouth- watering festive recipes

Just when you thought vegan desserts were bland and boring. Perfect Xmas treat!