European Lawmakers Decide to Prohibit Meat-Related Names for Plant-Based Products
During a significant decision on Wednesday, European Parliament members voted 355 to 247 to restrict product terms such as "burger" and "schnitzel" solely for meat products.
What the Decision Signifies
If the measure is implemented, common plant-based items like plant-based burgers, soy steak, and vegetable schnitzel may have to change their names across EU markets.
However, before the restriction to take effect, it needs to receive support from a majority of the 27 EU member states, something that is uncertain.
The Arguments Behind the Proposal
Proponents argue that customers require clear labeling and that meat terms must only refer to items from animals.
"A steak and sausages represent goods from animal farming: not from laboratory art or plant products," stated French MEP Céline Imart.
Critics, including environmental lawmakers, described the decision political maneuvering.
"Plant-based burgers, wheat schnitzel and soy sausage do not confuse shoppers, only certain lawmakers," said Austrian lawmaker Thomas Waitz.
Previous Efforts and Legal Context
The marks another attempt to control these terminology. The European parliament rejected a similar prohibition in four years ago.
France earlier introduced a domestic ban on meat terms for vegetarian products in recent years, but the European court of justice determined it invalid under EU law in 2024.
Industry and Consumer Reaction
Major German retailers including Aldi and Lidl oppose the measure, warning that changing established terms would confuse consumers.
Advocacy organizations cite surveys showing that most consumers comprehend these names when products are clearly marked as vegetarian.
"Nearly 70% of consumers understand the terminology provided products are clearly labelled plant-based," said Irina Popescu, a consumer expert at BEUC.
What Following the Vote
The legislative measure now faces review by EU member states, and it needs to secure broad approval to be enacted.
Given the mixed opinions within both lawmakers and the general population, the outcome of this initiative remains uncertain.
