ProVeg says plan would trigger “seismic shift” towards promotion of climate-friendly food
The European Commission should develop, by 2026, an EU Action Plan for Plant-based Foods to strengthen the plant-based agri-food chains, from farmers all the way to consumers, according to a high-level forum called the “Strategic Dialog on the Future of EU Agriculture”. The forum’s final report was delivered to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen today (4 September).
Launched in January 2024, the forum brings together key stakeholders from across the whole agri-food chain, including farmers, co-operatives, agri-food businesses, and rural communities; as well as non-governmental organizations and civil society representatives, financial institutions and academia.
Jasmijn de Boo, Global CEO of ProVeg International, said the forum’s recommendation for an EU-level plan would accelerate the production and consumption of more plant-based food at a time when most Europeans were already reducing their meat consumption.
“The recommendation by the forum to develop an EU-wide Action Plan for Plant-based foods would, if implemented, represent a seismic shift for the plant-based food sector,” de Boo said.
“The EU is listening to the science and is aware of the significant impact of climate change and how food can impact greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity, water usage, and human health.
“It is heartening to know that a serious recommendation has been made to promote climate-friendly, plant-based foods and give nature a fighting chance to recover,” de Boo added.
The report recognizes the growing trend towards plant-based diets and calls for stronger support to make plant-based options more accessible and affordable.
Lucia Hortelano, Senior EU Policy Manager at ProVeg, said the recommended plan for plant-based foods would be a big step in promoting healthier, sustainable food choices across Europe.
“We welcome this approach, which emphasizes empowering consumers through improved transparency and better access to information,” Hortelano said.
“Key elements of the strategy include new rules for public procurement, updating the food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs), enhanced labeling, educational programs, and increased availability of plant-based foods. These measures will make it easier for individuals to make sustainable and healthy dietary choices.
“Denmark has already shown the way with the introduction of its Plant-Based Action Plan so it is very exciting that this is being considered at EU level as well. We can expect more funding to flow into the plant-based sector under this plan, be that for research, farming and public procurement,” Hortelano said.
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Notes to Editors
For media inquiries, email Peter Rixon at [email protected]
For scientific data about the benefits of plant-based eating, see our Food System Data website.
About ProVeg International
Our vision is a world where everyone chooses delicious and healthy food that is good for all humans, animals, and our planet. ProVeg International is a food awareness organization with the mission to replace 50% of animal products globally with plant-based and cultivated foods by 2040.
