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The Lent season is an important period for the Catholic Church, beginning with Ash Wednesday and ending with Easter Sunday. During this season, the diet of the parishioners changes slightly, which is why we explain what should not be eaten during Lent.

What is Lent?

As explained by the Catholic News Agency (ACI Prensa), Lent is a celebration that originated in the 4th century, and its purpose is to reflect on the 40 days that Jesus spent in the desert before the Passion, as well as to give people an opportunity to repent of their sins and correct their mistakes through their approach to Jesus while preparing to receive Easter.



What should not be eaten during Lent?

During this process, some "sacrifices" must be made that represent support and empathy for what Jesus suffered in the desert. Therefore, there is a short list of prohibited foods that should not be consumed during Lent, which we show you below.

• Red meat
• Chorizo
• Bacon
• Ham and other cold cuts

While some people avoid red meats only on Fridays during Lent, there are also those who do not consume them during the entire 40 days of the season. This is because red meat represents the sins and excesses of worldly life, although some also consider it the Body of Christ, making it disrespectful to partake in it.

What foods can be eaten during Lent?

If you are a lover of red meats and this season is difficult for you, don't worry because there are plenty of delicious and nutritious foods that you can use to replace your favorite ingredient, such as:

• Chicken
• Turkey
• Fish
• Soy
• Seafood
• Vegetables

We also provide you with a few recipes that could help you cope with the lack of red meat during this Lent season.

• Crispy Fish Tacos 
• Pibil Salmon 
• Delicious Mexican Style Green Beans 

Did you already know which foods should not be eaten during Lent?