European Parliament Decide to Prohibit Meat-Related Terms for Vegetarian Foods
In a significant vote this week, MEPs decided by a margin of 355-247 to reserve product terms including "burger" and "schnitzel" solely for meat products.
The Vote Signifies
If the measure is implemented, common vegetarian products like veggie burgers, tofu steak, and vegetable schnitzel may have to change their names throughout European Union countries.
Nevertheless, for the restriction to be enforced, it must receive support from most of the 27 EU member states, something that is uncertain.
The Debate Surrounding the Measure
Proponents argue that customers need transparent information and while traditional names should only refer to products derived from animals.
"A steak or a sausage represent goods from our livestock: not from synthetic production or vegetable sources," stated French lawmaker Céline Imart.
Critics, including environmental lawmakers, called the decision unnecessary regulation.
"Veggie burgers, seitan schnitzel and tofu sausage do not confuse consumers, only rightwing politicians," declared Austria's lawmaker Thomas Waitz.
Previous Attempts and Legal Background
This isn't the first effort to control these terminology. The European parliament voted down a similar ban in four years ago.
The French government previously introduced a national restriction on meat terms for vegetarian products in recent years, but the European court of justice determined it invalid under European legislation in 2024.
Industry and Public Reaction
Leading Germany's retailers including Aldi and Lidl object to the measure, cautioning that altering established names would confuse shoppers.
Consumer groups cite surveys indicating that the majority of shoppers comprehend these names as long as items are properly marked as vegan.
"Almost 70% of consumers understand the terminology provided products are clearly labelled vegan or vegetarian," noted Irina Popescu, a consumer expert at BEUC.
What Comes Following the Vote
The legislative measure next requires consideration by EU member states, and it must obtain broad approval to become law.
Given the divided opinions among various lawmakers and the public, the outcome of the proposal is still uncertain.
