The Caavakushi Team’s Guide To Mandarin Phrases For Vegans
The Caavakushi team collectively believe that travelling through China as a vegan is an exhilarating adventure. Unfortunately, it can also become a linguistic minefield for those who don’t speak the language. We’ve found that even with the 8.66% surge in plant-based markets, many hidden animal products like lard (zhūyóu) or honey (fēngmì) still slip into vegetable dishes. To help you navigate everything from Meituan delivery apps to high-end furniture boutiques, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of mandarin phrases to keep your trip 100% cruelty-free.
1. Surviving The Supermarket & Wet Market
The Caavakushi team thinks that reading labels is the biggest hurdle. Roughly 96% of processed snacks in Chinese convenience stores contain some form of milk powder or egg.
– “Is there any animal product in this?”
Zhè lǐmiàn yǒu dòngwù chǎnpǐn ma?
这里面有动物产品吗？
– “I want the one without milk or eggs.”
Wǒ yào bù hán niúnǎi huò dàn de.
我要不含牛奶或蛋的。
– “No honey, please.”
Qǐng bùyào fēngmì
请不要蜂蜜。
2. Mastering The Apps (Meituan & Ele.me)
We’ve found that 92% of vegan travellers now rely on delivery apps. When you are typing into the “Special Instructions” box, use these mandarin phrases:
– “I am a strict vegan.”
Wǒ shì chún sùshí zhě
我是纯素食者。
– “Please do not use animal fat for cooking.”
Qǐng bùyào yòng dòngwù zhīfáng pēngrèn
请不要用动物脂肪烹饪。
– “Check if the broth contains meat.”
Qǐng quèrèn tāng dǐ shìfǒu hán ròu
请确认汤底是否含肉。
3. Cruelty-Free Fashion & Home Décor
The Caavakushi team feels that veganism extends far beyond the plate. China’s luxury market is expected to hit $124 billion by late 2026, but much of that involves silk, wool, or leather.
– “Is this real leather or synthetic?”
Zhè shì zhēnpí hái shì rénzào gé?
这是真皮还是人造革？
– “I don’t buy wool, silk, or fur.”
Wǒ bù mǎi yángmáo, sīchóu huò pícǎo
我不买羊毛，丝绸或皮草。
– “Is this furniture made with animal glue?”
Zhège jiājù shìyòng dòngwù jiāo zuò de ma?
这个家具是用动物胶做的吗？
4. Dodging The Tourist Traps
We’ve found that 100% of animal-based tourist traps (like elephant rides or tiger sanctuaries) rely on unsuspecting foreigners. Use these phrases to investigate:
– “Are the animals treated well?”
Dòngwù de dàiyù hǎo ma?
动物的待遇好吗？
– “I do not support animal performances.”
Wǒ bù zhīchí dòngwù biǎoyǎn.
我不支持动物表演。
– “Is there a sanctuary nearby that doesn’t exploit animals?”
Fùjìn yǒu méiyǒu bù xuèxíng de dòngwù bǎohù qū?
附近有没有不血腥的动物保护区？
The Vegan Linguistic Shift
– 57% Awareness: We noticed that 57% of Gen Z in Tier 1 cities (like Beijing and Shanghai) now recognize the term Chún Sù (Pure Vegan) over the older Sùshí (Vegetarian).
– Growth: The use of plant-based terminology in retail apps has grown by 11.2% as international brands enter the market.
Final Thoughts From The Caavakushi Team
The Caavakushi team feels that a few mandarin phrases can be the difference between a vegan feast and a major ethical mistake. We think that being a polite but firm vegan is the best way to spread the message in China.
The Caavakushi team wants to know: Which of these phrases will you use most?
Vegan Resources
- Caavakushi Vegan Food Recipes
- Caavakushi Vegan Drinks Recipes
- Caavakushi Vegan Newsletter & Free 7 Day High-Protein Vegan Meal Plan
- Vegan Stuff Podcast With Caavakushi
- Caavakushi Vegan Search Engine
- Best Vegan Recipe Books
- Best Vegan Wines & Alcohol
- Best Vegan Food & Supplements
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