The European Parliament has voted to ban the use of words like “burger” or “steak” to describe plant-based variants, sparking debate among food producers, consumers, and environmentalists.
The proposal, put forward by French MEP Céline Imart, aims to reserve meat-related terms for products containing animal ingredients, citing concerns over consumer confusion and the protection of traditional farming practices.
The Vote and Its Implications
On October 8, 2025, the European Parliament approved the proposal with 355 votes in favor and 247 against. The ban targets seven labels, including “burger,” “steak,” “sausage,” “escalope,” “hamburger,” “egg yolk,” and “egg white”. If adopted, plant-based products would need to be relabeled, potentially impacting the growing alt-protein sector.
Arguments For and Against the Ban
Proponents argue that the ban would prevent consumer confusion and protect traditional farming practices. Imart stated, “A sausage means meat produced by our livestock farmers. Full stop”. However, opponents claim the ban is unnecessary and would stifle innovation, with 80% of consumers supporting the use of meat-like names for plant-based products when clearly labeled.
Impact on the Plant-Based Industry
The plant-based meat sector in Europe was worth €3.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow 19% annually through 2035. The ban could lead to costly rebranding, potentially slowing innovation and growth.
Next Steps
The proposal will undergo negotiations with the European Commission and the Council. If approved, the ban could take effect within months, reshaping the plant-based food industry in Europe.
Perspectives and Reactions
– Måns Ullerstam, CEO of Kale United, called the decision “crazy” and “counterproductive”.
– The European Vegetarian Union described the proposal as “unnecessary, unjustified, and counterproductive”.
– Environmental NGO WePlanet warned the ban would “slow down the transition to a plant-based society”.
The European Parliament’s vote reflects a broader debate over food labeling, consumer protection, and the future of sustainable food systems. As negotiations continue, stakeholders will closely watch the outcome, weighing the implications for the plant-based industry, traditional farming, and consumer choice.
