Across Europe, conservative forces are attempting to roll back the use of traditional food terms for plant-based alternatives – as they already did for milk. At first glance, these attacks may seem like semantic debates, but they are really about protecting a declining meat industry and appeasing the struggling conventional farming sector.
We joined the No Confusion campaign to make it clear: plant-based foods are healthy, sustainable and increasingly preferred by consumers/citizens. Far from confusing consumers, clear labeling allows people to make informed choices and supports the growth of a sector that is dynamic, innovative and future-proof.
The demand for plant-based products is growing steady. Across Europe, sales of alternatives like plant-based milks, burgers and sausages are growing rapidly, proving that this is not a niche market but a key part of tomorrow’s food system. Rather than undermining this transition, the EU should be investing in it, creating opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs alike.
Importantly, the challenges faced by farmers today are not caused by the use of traditional meat terms on plant-based products. They stem from an unsustainable, intensive and unfair agri-food system that pressures producers, damages the environment and leaves many farmers vulnerable. Producing plant-based protein crops, such as peas, soy, lentils and more, is part of the solution, as stated in the Blueprint for plant-based foods we’ve supported. This production can diversify incomes, reduce environmental impacts and future-proof farms.
Plant-based foods are not a threat, they are a chance to build a healthier, more resilient food system. We call on policymakers to defend this sector, protect consumers’ right to choose and recognize the opportunities for farmers in a shifting food landscape.