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I think I'm allowed to perch on both sides of the fence for the vegetarian / carnivore issue because I was a vegetarian for more than a decade. Then, midway through pregnancy, I became the jubilant meat-eater that I am today.

During my vegetarian days, I remember feeling like my dietary choice was annoying -- almost offensive -- to some people in my personal life. Family members made comments like "what exactly do you eat?" and "I don't think a little chicken broth will kill you."

I've noticed this in my professional world as well. I wrote numerous articles and blogs about vegetarianism for OnMilwaukee.com, and it's clear that a fair share of Talkbackers are irritated by the veggie breed.

So what is it about vegetarians that some find so annoying?

I compiled my own list of possibilities based on experience as well as speculation, but feel free to add your own thoughts via the Talkback feature.

Possible annoying attributes of vegetarians:

Vegetarians are self-righteous? Perhaps some vegetarians think they're more educated and evolved humans with way more self-discipline since they do not eat the meat.

Vegetarians are rude? When someone makes a big meal, the last thing the cook want sto hear is, "You made that with chicken stock? I'll just eat the salad." Some vegetarians I know will graciously break their meat-free diet to avoid undermining someone's efforts. Others feel strongly in their convictions, and would stick to them regardless of who prepared their meal.

Vegetarians are hung up on titles? Are vegetarians more into the label than the health benefits? Is it cool to be a vegetarian? Is it another way to define one's self and to fit in liberal hipster social circles?

Vegetarians are too thin? Do those with meat on their bones -- literally and figuratively -- feel oversized next to sinewy vegetarians types?