In a move that has infuriated environmentalists and health advocates, the European Parliament has voted to prohibit plant-based food products from using meat-related terminology like 'burger', 'sausage', and 'steak'.
The Terminology War Heats Up
The controversial decision means that vegetarian and vegan alternatives will need to find new names that don't 'mislead' consumers by referencing traditional meat products. This represents a significant victory for meat industry lobbyists who have long argued that such terminology confuses shoppers.
Environmental groups have condemned the move as a blatant attempt to undermine the growing plant-based food sector. "This is nothing more than protectionism dressed up as consumer protection," stated one sustainability campaigner.
What the Ban Actually Means
The new regulations specify that:
- Plant-based products cannot use terms like 'burger' or 'sausage' even with qualifying words like 'veggie' or 'plant-based'
- Dairy alternatives face similar restrictions on terms like 'milk' and 'cheese'
- Products must find entirely new names that don't reference traditional animal products
Proponents argue this protects consumers from confusion, while opponents claim it will hamper the transition to more sustainable food systems.
Industry Reaction and Next Steps
Plant-based food manufacturers have expressed deep concern about the financial impact of rebranding and repackaging their products. Many fear this could slow the rapid growth of the alternative protein market in Europe.
The decision comes amid increasing tension between traditional agricultural sectors and the emerging plant-based industry, with both sides battling for consumer attention and regulatory favour.
