Herbivorederived

Herbivore-derived is an adjective used to describe materials, substances, or products that originate from herbivorous animals—those whose diets are primarily plant-based. The term is used in ecology, nutrition, medicine, and industry to indicate source and provenance and to distinguish such materials from those derived from carnivores or omnivores, or from plants and synthetic sources.

Common contexts include food production, where dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt and meat from herbivores such as cattle, sheep, and goats are described as herbivore-derived. Biologically derived components such as collagen, gelatin, certain enzymes, or hormones may be sourced from herbivores, though production methods and regulatory oversight vary by product and jurisdiction. In research and industry, herbivore-derived materials are valued for specific biochemical properties but may raise concerns about allergenicity, zoonotic risk, and animal welfare.

Labeling and regulation often require disclosure of animal origin for allergen information and for compliance with halal, kosher, or other dietary rules. Animal welfare, origin traceability, and environmental sustainability are additional considerations in the use of herbivore-derived materials. In some cases, advances in plant-based, synthetic, or recombinant production reduce reliance on herbivore-derived materials.

See also:

- Animal-derived substances

- Plant-based alternatives

- Gelatin

- Collagen

- Dairy products