"EU countries and lawmakers wrangled on Wednesday over whether to restrict the use of terms such as "veggie burger" and plant-based "sausages." But following hours of talks, no agreement was reached, so lawmakers will have to try again next year. It's a long-running debate, with livestock farmers saying such language has confused consumers and undermined their sector. Why are veggie sausages controversial?"
"The European Parliament reignited the controversy in October when it backed a proposal to reserve labels including steak, sausage and hamburger for foods containing meat. Supporters say the rule would help protect the value of traditional meat products and avoid consumer confusion. The measure was introduced by French conservative lawmaker Celine Imart, who argued it would prevent confusion with traditional meat products."
"Imart stressed that the goal was not to prohibit plant-based foods themselves but to defend the "true meaning" of longstanding culinary terms. Member states now must negotiate with Parliament, though several notably Germany, Europe's largest market for vegetarian and vegan products have expressed reservations. German discount chains Lidl and Aldi oppose the ban, warning that sales could fall because consumers are already familiar with existing names."
EU countries and lawmakers met but did not reach agreement on restricting terms like "veggie burger" and plant-based "sausages", so negotiations will resume next year. The debate centers on reserving labels such as steak, sausage and hamburger for foods containing meat. Supporters say the rule would protect traditional meat product value and prevent consumer confusion; French lawmaker Celine Imart introduced the proposal to defend the "true meaning" of culinary terms without banning plant-based foods. Several member states, including Germany, expressed reservations, and retailers Lidl and Aldi warned a ban could hurt sales. Meat industry groups say categories are blurred, while some public figures argue consumers deliberately choose plant-based options and are not confused.
Read at www.dw.com
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