Animal Advocacy & Food Transition has participated in the European Commission’s Call for Evidence on the upcoming EU Cardiovascular Health Plan.
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in Europe, with most cases linked to preventable risk factors, such as diet. Europe’s current reliance on meat and other animal-based foods, rich in saturated fat and cholesterol, fuels this public health crisis.
We have called on the Commission to recognise the proven benefits of plant-based diets for preventing heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. A shift towards plant-rich eating would not only improve public health, but also lower healthcare costs, reduce inequalities, and support environmental and animal welfare goals.
Among our recommendations:
- Redirect subsidies towards fruits, vegetables, legumes and plant proteins.
- Leverage public procurement in schools, hospitals and canteens to normalise healthier diets.
- Revise school food schemes to guarantee children, especially from vulnerable backgrounds, access to nutritious plant-based meals.
- Align EU agri-food policies and promotion with health objectives.
By embedding prevention in food and agriculture policy, the EU has the opportunity to protect citizens’ health, revitalise rural economies, and build a more resilient, sustainable food system.
Read our full response here.