Food Industry Opposes EU Ban on Non-Meat Terminology

More than a dozen food companies, including Linda McCarney Foods, Quorn, and THIS, have urged the European Commission to reconsider a proposed ban on using terms like “sausage” and “burger” for non-meat products. This initiative, led by French centre-right MEP Céline Imart, aims to address concerns from the meat industry regarding the growing popularity of plant-based foods. The European Parliament had previously voted in favor of these measures, with 355 votes supporting the ban and 247 opposing it. However, the proposals require approval from a majority of the EU's 27 member states, with a decisive vote scheduled for March 5.

The Guardian

The push for a terminology ban is seen as a response to the increasing market share of plant-based alternatives, which has prompted backlash from traditional meat producers. The proposed regulations would require products like bean burgers to be relabeled as “patties” or “discs,” potentially leading to consumer confusion. Critics argue that such changes are unnecessary, as consumers are already able to distinguish between meat and non-meat products based on clear ingredient lists.

The Guardian

The letter opposing the ban was organized by the Vegetarian Society and signed by various food companies. Paul Garner, commerce area leader at Suma Wholefoods, emphasized that consumers are capable of making informed choices without the need for restrictive labeling. David Flochel, CEO of Quorn Foods, expressed concern that the proposed restrictions could create confusion and regulatory burdens, stating that in 40 years, no customer has mistaken a Quorn product for meat.

The Guardian

Jenny Canham, public affairs lead of the Vegetarian Society, remarked that the business community's stance against the ban highlights its unnecessary nature. She urged EU decision-makers to focus on clear labeling rather than imposing language barriers. The food companies collectively argue that the ban would complicate shopping for consumers and hinder smaller producers.

The Guardian

Opponents of the ban, including major supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl, argue that it would not benefit consumers or the industry. They assert that the terminology used for plant-based products is well understood by the public, and that the focus should be on supporting innovation in the food sector rather than imposing restrictive measures.

The Guardian

The proposed ban will be subject to a vote by the EU member states on March 5, which will determine whether the terminology restrictions will be enacted. The outcome of this vote could significantly impact the labeling of plant-based products across Europe.

The Guardian

“Here’s the thing: consumers are smart! They don’t need labels policing words like ‘burger’ or ‘sausage’ to know what they’re buying. Clear ingredient lists and a bit of common sense are enough. Banning familiar terms just makes life harder for shoppers and smaller producers, without helping anyone.” — Paul Garner, Commerce Area Leader, Suma Wholefoods

The Guardian

“regrettable that energy continues to be spent revisiting an issue that consumers settled long ago” — David Flochel, CEO, Quorn Foods

The Guardian

“As this ongoing debate draws to a close, businesses are the latest group to send a clear message that banning familiar veggie terms is completely unnecessary. EU decision-makers must recognise the global risks of pursuing a terminology ban to address a problem that simply does not exist. What we truly need is clear labelling, not unnecessary language barriers.” — Jenny Canham, Public Affairs Lead, Vegetarian Society

The Guardian