Writer Describes Using Vegetarian Diet as Dating Filter After Divorce

A California writer who has been vegetarian for 23 years said she plans to use reactions to her diet as a way to assess potential dating partners after her recent divorce. The writer described the "tofu test," a trend promoted by comedian Jenny Yang on her podcast.

The test involves asking a date whether they like tofu. Yang stated that a negative response without prior experience trying the food may reflect gendered views toward women. The writer recounted her own experiences over two decades. She said many men responded defensively when she disclosed her vegetarianism, with some making jokes or offering meat while pulling it away.

One co-worker at a pizza restaurant threatened to hide pepperoni in her food as a joke, she said. She added that few men responded positively to her eating habits. The writer contrasted these reactions with her former husband's response. She said he asked if she had enough to eat at a potluck and later scanned restaurant menus for vegetarian options without being asked.

She noted that he sometimes found the diet inconvenient, such as when ordering takeout, but remained courteous and ate tofu on multiple occasions. The writer said the marriage ended after 17 years together and three children, though she described the relationship as positive overall.

She stated she is not ready to date yet but finds the approach useful for future interactions. The writer concluded that while the test does not reveal everything about a person, it provides an initial filter when meeting new people.