European Parliament Vote to Ban Meat-Based Names for Vegetarian Products
In a significant decision this week, MEPs decided by a margin of 355-247 to reserve food names such as "burger" and "schnitzel" exclusively for meat products.
The Decision Means
Should this proposal becomes law, common plant-based items such as veggie burgers, tofu steak, and vegetable schnitzel may have to change their names across European Union markets.
Nevertheless, for the ban to be enforced, it must receive approval from most of the 27 EU countries, which is uncertain.
The Arguments Surrounding the Proposal
Proponents contend that consumers require clear labeling and while meat terms should only describe products derived from livestock.
"An escalope or a sausage represent products from our livestock: not from laboratory art nor vegetable sources," said French lawmaker Céline Imart.
Opponents, led by Green MEPs, called the move political tactics.
"Veggie burgers, wheat schnitzel and soy sausage do not confuse consumers, only rightwing politicians," declared Austria's lawmaker Thomas Waitz.
Previous Efforts and Legal Background
The isn't the first effort to control such terminology. EU lawmakers voted down a similar ban in 2020.
The French government previously introduced a domestic ban on traditional names for vegetarian products in recent years, but the European court of justice ruled it illegal under EU law in 2024.
Industry and Public Reaction
Leading German retailers such as Aldi and Lidl object to the measure, cautioning that changing established terms would confuse consumers.
Consumer groups point to surveys indicating that most consumers understand these names as long as items are clearly marked as vegetarian.
"Almost 70% of shoppers understand the terminology provided products are explicitly marked vegan or vegetarian," noted Irina Popescu, a consumer expert at BEUC.
What Comes Following the Vote
The legislative measure next faces review by EU member states, where it must secure majority approval to become law.
Considering the mixed views within both politicians and the general population, the future of this initiative is still uncertain.
