EU Parliament Decide to Prohibit Meat-Related Names for Plant-Based Foods
During a major vote on Wednesday, European Parliament members voted by a margin of 355-247 to reserve product terms such as "steak" and "sausage" solely for animal-derived foods.
What the Decision Signifies
If the measure becomes law, popular plant-based items such as veggie burgers, soy steak, and cauliflower schnitzel could have to change their names throughout European Union markets.
However, before the restriction to take effect, it must receive approval from a majority of the EU's 27 member states, something that remains uncertain.
The Arguments Behind the Proposal
Supporters contend that customers need clear information and that traditional names should only describe products derived from animals.
"A steak and sausages represent products from our livestock: not synthetic production nor vegetable sources," stated French lawmaker Céline Imart.
Opponents, led by Green MEPs, called the move political tactics.
"Veggie burgers, wheat schnitzel and soy sausage do not confuse consumers, just rightwing politicians," said Austrian Green MEP Thomas Waitz.
Past Efforts and Legal Background
This isn't the first attempt to control such terminology. EU lawmakers rejected a similar ban in four years ago.
The French government previously enacted a national ban on meat terms for plant-based foods in recent years, but the European court of justice determined it invalid under European legislation in 2024.
Industry and Public Reaction
Leading Germany's retailers including Aldi and Lidl object to the proposal, warning that changing established names would confuse shoppers.
Advocacy organizations cite surveys showing that the majority of consumers comprehend these names as long as products are properly identified as vegan.
"Nearly seventy percent of consumers understand the terminology provided items are clearly labelled plant-based," noted Irina Popescu, a consumer expert at BEUC.
What Following the Vote
This legislative measure now requires consideration by European governments, and it must obtain broad support to become law.
Considering the divided opinions among both lawmakers and the public, the outcome of this initiative remains uncertain.
