An Effective Method of Vegetarian Dietary Practice in Vietnam Based on Mahāyāna Buddhism and Food Science
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Abstract
This study aimed to propose an effective method of vegetarian dietary practice in Vietnam by integrating Mahāyāna Buddhist principles with contemporary food science. It had three objectives: (1) to examine the issues associated with vegetarian dietary practices in Vietnam; (2) to investigate methods of vegetarian practice in Mahāyāna Buddhism and their foundations in food science; and (3) to propose an effective method of vegetarian dietary practice in Vietnam based on Mahāyāna Buddhism and food science. The study employed a qualitative methodology comprising documentary research and fieldwork. Documentary data were drawn from primary and secondary sources concerning Mahāyāna Buddhist teachings, vegetarian dietary practices, and food science. Fieldwork data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 17 key informants, including Buddhist monastics and scholars, nutrition experts, medical professionals, and long-term vegetarian practitioners in Vietnam. The data were analyzed using descriptive, thematic, analytical, and interpretive approaches.
The findings revealed that vegetarian dietary practices in Vietnam are strongly influenced by Mahāyāna Buddhist principles, particularly compassion (karuṇā) and non-violence (ahiṃsā), but are also affected by nutritional, economic, sociocultural, and knowledge-related challenges. Four principal methods of practice were identified: periodic vegetarianism, full-time vegetarianism, gradual and flexible vegetarianism, and mindful and compassion-based eating. Buddhist teachings provide the ethical and behavioral foundations for these practices, while food science supports nutritional adequacy through dietary balance, diversity, nutrient bioavailability, and the prevention of potential deficiencies, particularly in vitamin B12, iron, and protein. Based on these findings, the study proposes an integrated vegetarian dietary method emphasizing gradual transition, nutritional balance, mindful eating, cultural adaptability, and practical sustainability. This approach offers a framework for promoting healthy, sustainable, and ethically grounded vegetarian dietary practices in Vietnam.
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