Are figs vegetarian? The intriguing story of fig pollination and the wasp's role
Figs are rich in taste, fiber, and nutrition, but still some think them non-vegetarian because of the involvement of the fig wasps in the pollination process.
The wasps pollinate the flowers and lay eggs inside the fruits; and wasp larvae are born and die inside it.
A mutualistic process, because the wasp relies on the fig to reproduce and the fig relies on the wasp to pollinate.
Some vegetarians avoid them because wasp parts remain in the fig, which are broken down by the enzyme ficin within the fig, making them indistinguishable from the fruit.
Commercially produced figs, like common figs, tend to be self-pollinating with little to no need for wasps; they're suitable for very strict vegetarians and vegans.
Wild figs, particularly dioecious species, are pollinated by the fig wasp, which may leave wasp parts within the fruit; thus, they are not vegetarian according to some standards.
Vegetarians and vegans may choose figs by pollination type, choosing self-pollinating varieties to keep out the insects.