EU Parliament to Vote on Controversial Plant-Based Naming Ban
The European Parliament is set to vote on a controversial proposal that aims to ban plant-based and meat substitute products from using terms like 'schnitzel', 'burger', or 'steak'. This move has sparked debate, with the German Farmers' Association supporting the initiative, while the union 'Food Enjoyment Catering' (FEC) criticizes it. The vote is scheduled for Wednesday.
Susanne Uhl, head of FEC's capital office, argues against the ban. She believes that clear labeling of vegan and vegetarian products, rather than restricting their names, would distinguish them from meat products effectively. Uhl's stance is opposed to the European People's Party's (EPP) initiative, which is primarily supported by the EVP and aims to restrict terms like 'burger' and 'sausage' to meat products only.
The German Farmers' Association, however, supports the EPP's proposal. They argue that such labeling would prevent consumers from being misled about the nature of the products they are purchasing. The vote on this proposal is set to take place in the European Parliament on October 8, 2025.
The upcoming vote in the European Parliament on the labeling of plant-based and meat substitute products has sparked a heated debate. While some argue for clear labeling to distinguish between meat and meat substitutes, others support a ban on specific names for these products. The outcome of the vote on October 8, 2025, will determine the future of this contentious issue.
