On Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, Catholics are permitted to eat one full meal and two smaller meals that do not equal a full meal. These meals should be modest, not overly lavish, and should not include meat. Fish and other forms of seafood are allowed, as well as eggs, dairy products, and plant-based protein sources such as beans and tofu.
The guidelines may differ slightly on other days when Catholics are encouraged to fast, such as the first Friday of the month or during the Ember Days. For example, Catholics may be asked to abstain from meat these days, but they may be permitted to eat more than one full meal. Again, the Church advises Catholics to approach fasting with a spirit of moderation and charity and to not harm their health or well-being through excessive or strict fasting practices.
It’s important to note that the Church does not have strict rules about what Catholics can and cannot eat at other times of the year.
Catholics can make their own dietary choices as long as principles of health, sustainability, and compassion for animals and the environment guide them.
