Can a Schnitzel be made from Soy? - EU Parliament to Vote on Banning 'Veggie-Burger' Names
The European Parliament is set to vote on a potential ban of using meat terms like 'Veggie-Burger' or 'Tofu-Sausage' for plant-based products. The move aims to prevent consumer confusion and protect farmers from competing products using their reputation.
Currently, terms such as 'Sausage', 'Schnitzel', or names of other typical meat products can be used for plant-based alternatives in Germany. However, the market for meat substitutes has grown significantly, with around 121,600 tonnes produced in 2024. The German government welcomes clear distinction and recognizability of meat substitutes but has not yet communicated a position on the specific proposal.
The initiative, if passed, could affect food names like 'Veggie-Burger', 'Tofu-Wurst', 'Soja-Schnitzel', 'Steak', 'Schnitzel', 'Hamburger', and 'Wurst', reserving these terms for products containing actual meat. Several trading companies, manufacturers, and consumer organizations oppose the ban, citing consumer orientation and conscious purchasing decisions. A market research survey found that while half of German consumers believe plant-based alternatives should have different names, only one in four thinks it's important for the European Parliament to address the issue. Consumer advocates, such as foodwatch and the Federation of German Consumer Organizations, also oppose the ban. The next steps involve negotiations between the parliament and EU states to reach a final agreement on the new rules.
The potential ban on using meat terms for plant-based products aims to reduce consumer confusion and protect farmers. However, it faces opposition from various parties, and its impact on the growing market for meat substitutes remains to be seen. The European Parliament's vote will determine the next steps in this ongoing debate.
