Veggie Tales
Large-scale study asks how many adults consider themselves to be vegetarian (4%), as well as follow-up questions relating to primary motive for vegetarianism, type of vegetarian, and opinions on the slaughter of animals.
4% of Americans polled consider themselves to be vegetarian.
The most important reasons noted for becoming vegetarian include:
- Health (32%)
- Chemicals/hormones in meat (15%)
- Taste (13%)
- Love of animals (11%)
- Animal rights (10%)
- Religion (6%)
- Concern for the planet (4%)
- Lose weight (3%)
- Reduce hunger worldwide (1%)
The self-described terms used by the vegetarian respondents include semi-vegetarian (57%), ovo-lacto vegetarian (36%), vegan (5%), other (2%).
75% of vegetarians feel healthier after becoming vegetarian, while 17% do not; 8% have always been vegetarian.
42% of vegetarians consider the slaughter of animals to be murder.
29% of vegetarians would not kiss somebody immediately after they’ve eaten meat.

Citations:
Harris Interactive, Time Magazine, Cable News Network, 2002 United States (National)