European Lawmakers Decide to Prohibit Meat-Related Names for Vegetarian Products
In a major vote this week, European Parliament members voted by a margin of 355-247 to reserve food names including "steak" and "schnitzel" solely for animal-derived foods.
The Vote Means
If the measure becomes law, popular vegetarian items like veggie burgers, tofu steak, and vegetable schnitzel may need to be renamed across European Union markets.
Nevertheless, before the ban to be enforced, it must receive support from most of the 27 EU countries, which is uncertain.
Key Debate Behind the Proposal
Proponents contend that customers need clear labeling and while traditional names must only refer to products from livestock.
"A steak or a sausage represent goods from animal farming: not from laboratory art nor plant products," stated French MEP the proposal's author.
Opponents, led by environmental lawmakers, called the decision populist maneuvering.
"Plant-based burgers, wheat schnitzel and soy sausage do not confuse consumers, just rightwing politicians," said Austrian lawmaker Thomas Waitz.
Past Efforts and Legal Background
This marks another attempt to control such names. EU lawmakers rejected a similar prohibition in four years ago.
France previously introduced a domestic restriction on meat terms for vegetarian products in 2020, but the European court of justice ruled it illegal under European legislation in 2024.
Industry and Public Response
Major Germany's supermarkets including Aldi and Lidl oppose the measure, cautioning that altering familiar names would confuse shoppers.
Consumer groups cite surveys indicating that the majority of shoppers understand these names as long as items are clearly marked as vegan.
"Nearly seventy percent of consumers understand the terminology provided products are clearly marked plant-based," said Irina Popescu, a food policy officer at BEUC.
What Comes Next
This legislative measure now faces review by EU member states, where it must secure majority approval to be enacted.
Given the divided opinions among both lawmakers and the public, the outcome of the proposal remains uncertain.
