Fig vegetarian or non vegetarian: Figs are a fruit that we have been eating as a normal fruit since childhood, but sometimes there are videos on social media that claim that figs are non-vegetarian. People often get confused about whether figs are vegetarian or not, especially for those who follow a strict vegetarian diet. The truth is that very few people know what goes inside a fig, how the tree bears fruit and how pollination takes place. So, often due to incomplete information, people jump to wrong conclusions. In today’s story, we will explain in simple, layman’s terms, and in just 700 words, why there is so much controversy surrounding figs. What is reality, and should it be considered vegetarian or non-vegetarian? We are keeping the first paragraph longer to give you the full context and clear up any confusion.
What is inside a fig and why are people afraid?
Figs look like an ordinary fruit from the outside, but their internal structure is quite different from other fruits. Seeing small grain-like seeds in figs, people think that a worm is trapped in it. Some videos claim that figs contain dead insects, so they should be considered carnivores. However, this is not entirely true. Indeed, figs are a fruit that is pollinated by a specific type of wasp and without understanding this process one cannot make a decision about figs.
What does the fig wasp do and why is it important?
The flowers on the fig tree do not bloom outwards. Their flowers are located inside the fruit. To reach these flowers, the fig wasp enters the fruit through a very small hole. By going there it pollinates and due to this the fruit is able to develop properly. It is considered a beautiful example of nature because the tree and this little wasp depend on each other. But sometimes these wasps get stuck inside figs and cannot get out. That is why some people consider it a non-vegetarian food.
Does the wasp really stay in the fruit? The truth is here
Yes, in some cases the wasp gets stuck and dies, but that doesn’t mean it will end up on your plate. A special type of enzyme (called physin) inside figs kills the wasp completely. This means that Tataya cannot be identified. Figs turn it into a completely natural protein. By the time figs are ready to eat, there are no worms in them. So it is scientifically wrong to call it a carnivore.
Are figs considered vegetarian? Absolutely yes
Almost all food agencies, scientists and nutritionists around the world consider figs as a completely vegetarian fruit. Even in India figs are universally classified as vegetarian as they do not contain any animal matter. The tataya mentioned is only part of the natural cycle and no part of it remains in the fruit. So calling figs carnivorous is based on wrong information.
Are figs considered vegan? The answer here is also yes
Even vegetarians can eat figs comfortably as they do not contain any animal derived substances. It is true that it is pollinated by insects, but this is a natural process, not the result of agriculture or the food industry using animals. Therefore, vegetarians also consider it a plant-based food.
Knowing the benefits of figs, you will love them even more.
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Improves digestion
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Helps in weight control
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Brightens the skin
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Rich in iron, calcium and fiber
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Beneficial for heart health
This means that figs are not just vegetables, but also a healthy superfood that can be included in your daily diet.
(Disclaimer: The above facts are based on general information. News 18 Does not confirm them. (Consult the relevant experts before trying them.)