Originally Posted by
emcampbe
Hindu is definitely listed as vegetarian in the description on UA. Unless that changed, recently.... The important thing I think is what IATA meal codes the UA-marketed meal types link up to - I would assume an agent can see that, but those are definitely standards across the industry.
I'd swear that is a relatively recent change. I have always ordered Asian Veg on UA because in the past I've called and been told Hindu could include chicken. Now it looks like it is labeled Hindu VEG, which is different (probably a way for them to save costs by reducing the number of specials; I'd bet the Hindu and Asian veg meals are the same). On other airlines I've also noticed that Hindu can mean chicken or fish, so I always do AVML.
MatthewLAX is right, though, nowadays it is always best to pack my own food -- and if I get something edible, I'm pleasantly surprised. I do miss the AVML UA meals.
My problem with not ordering a special is that sometimes you don't get a veg option at all even if UA theoretically stocks them (either not available or they run out). This has led to some envy when the regular meal looks good (especially the desserts!), but I prioritize my decision to be veg.