Vocabulary for Modern Food Trends

Vocabulary for Modern Food Trends – Vegetarian, Vegan & Organic English (B2–C1)

Food is no longer just about taste or tradition — it has become a statement. Vocabulary for Modern Food Trends 

What we eat today often reflects our values, lifestyle choices, and even our identity. Words like vegetarian, vegan, and organic appear frequently in conversations, articles, social media posts, and Cambridge exam tasks.

In this lesson, we will explore modern food-trend vocabulary, focusing on meaning and natural usage, so you can speak and write about food with confidence and sophistication.

Vegetarian vocabulary

A vegetarian diet excludes meat and fish, but usually includes dairy products and eggs. However, the vocabulary around vegetarianism is more varied than many learners realise.

Key Vocabulary

Vegetarian

A person who does not eat meat or fish.

Sandra became a vegetarian in her twenties for ethical reasons.

Plant-based

Mostly or entirely plant-based; it often sounds more modern and flexible than vegetarian.

Peter follows a mostly plant-based diet during the week.

Meat-free / meatless

Without meat; commonly used on menus.

This restaurant offers a wide range of meat-free options.

Flexitarian

Someone who is mainly vegetarian but occasionally eats meat or fish.

She’s a flexitarian — she eats meat only on special occasions.

Protein alternatives

Non-meat sources of protein (beans, lentils, tofu, chickpeas).

Lentils are a popular protein alternative in vegetarian cooking.

Useful collocations

• adopt a vegetarian diet
• switch to meat-free meals
• cut down on meat
• a balanced vegetarian lifestyle

Vegan vocabulary

A vegan lifestyle goes a step further than vegetarianism. Vegans avoid all animal products — not just in food, but often in clothing and cosmetics too. Vocabulary for Modern Food Trends 

Key vocabulary

Vegan

A person who avoids all animal-derived products.

• She’s vegan and avoids dairy, eggs, and honey.

Dairy-free

Containing no milk or milk products.

• This dessert is completely dairy-free.

Plant-based alternatives

Products designed to replace animal-based foods.

• Oat milk has become a popular plant-based alternative to cow’s milk.

Ethical eating

Choosing food based on moral or environmental principles.

• For many people, veganism is a form of ethical eating.

Animal-free / cruelty-free

Produced without harming animals; often used beyond food.

• The brand promotes animal-free products across its range.

Natural expressions

• follow a vegan lifestyle
• go fully vegan
• vegan-friendly menu
• adapt traditional recipes

Organic food vocabulary

Organic food is associated with health, sustainability, and traditional farming methods — but it also comes with its own set of useful expressions.

Key vocabulary

Organic

Produced without synthetic chemicals or artificial fertilisers.

• Organic vegetables tend to be more expensive.

Locally sourced

Produced near the place where it is sold or consumed.

• The café uses locally sourced ingredients.

Seasonal produce

Fruit and vegetables grown and eaten in their natural season.

• Cooking with seasonal produce is both cheaper and more sustainable.

Additive-free

Containing no artificial substances.

• This juice is completely additive-free.

Farm-to-table

From local farms directly to consumers or restaurants.

• Farm-to-table dining has become increasingly popular.

Common collocations

• organic produce
• sustainable farming
• health-conscious consumers
• environmentally friendly choices

Exam-friendly linking language (B2–C1)

These topics are ideal for essays, reports, and discussions. Use linking language to sound more advanced:

• In recent years, plant-based diets have gained popularity.
• While organic food is often more expensive, many consumers consider it worthwhile.
• From an environmental perspective, reducing meat consumption can be beneficial.
• As a result, food trends now reflect ethical concerns as much as taste.

Mini writing task (Cambridge-style)

Essay prompt:

Some people believe that modern food trends are just a fashion, while others think they represent positive social change. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Tip: Use vocabulary from all three sections to show range and control.

Final thought

Food trends come and go — but the language around them is here to stay. Whether you are ordering in a restaurant, debating lifestyle choices, or writing a Cambridge essay, mastering this vocabulary will help you sound natural, modern, and confident.

And let’s be honest — talking about food is always a good idea. Even grammar feels easier after a decent meal 😉

Vocabulary for modern food trends

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