Italy bans veggie “salami” and sparks debate on plant-based labelling once again
The European Vegetarian Union (EVU) is closely monitoring the recent developments in Italy, where the lower house of parliament has passed a law banning the use of cultivated meat products and the marketing of plant-based products using meat-related names such as “steak” and “salami”. This controversial move raises concerns about potential violations of EU law, […]
EVU unveils ”Plant-Based Manifesto” ahead of 2024 EU elections
The European Vegetarian Union (EVU), representing 46 civil society organisations from across Europe, unveiled the “Plant-Based Manifesto” in anticipation of the 2024 European elections. The manifesto underscores the urgency of transforming Europe’s food systems to meet the targets of the European Green Deal and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The ‘’Plant-Based Manifesto’’ was […]
New report shows plant-based school meals can be cheaper and better for the planet
A new report published today by the European Vegetarian Union (EVU) analyses some of the best public procurement practices across public canteens in Europe – demonstrating that plant-based meals are more affordable and have significantly lower environmental impacts. The report showcases exemplary sustainable public procurement initiatives on a local, regional and national level, from nurseries […]
While the ECJ’s verdict is still pending, France resolutely enforces labelling ban for plant-based food
The European Vegetarian Union (EVU) is closely monitoring the latest developments in France regarding the decree banning the use of meat-related terms to describe plant-based products. The French government’s decision to publish this new decree while the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has not yet provided its ruling on the matter raises serious questions about […]
SOTEU 2023: A dish served lukewarm and missing key ingredients
In response to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s State of the European Union (SOTEU) speech, the European Vegetarian Union (EVU) has reacted with significant concern. While we welcome the mention of a ”Strategic Dialogue on the Future of Agriculture in the EU”, we were left troubled by the lackluster support for the European […]
NGOs call on Von der Leyen to uphold green farming ambition in State of the Union speech
The European Vegetarian Union (EVU), representing 46 organisations across Europe dedicated to environmental sustainability, human health, and animal welfare, has sent a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen ahead of her forthcoming and annual State of the Union speech (SOTEU) on 13 September. The letter calls for urgent action to address climate […]
How Big Meat’s grip shapes EU farm policy and what we eat
The pervasive influence of the meat and dairy lobby on government policies and regulations within the European Union has been brought to light in a recent study conducted by Stanford University. The study shines a spotlight on how lobbying efforts have curbed the growth of plant-based alternatives with lighter climate and environmental footprints. As the […]
Beyond Meat’s sales reflect larger economic woes with our food system
Recent reports of a 30 percent drop in sales for Beyond Meat’s plant-based products have raised concerns and prompted speculation in the media about the future of vegan alternatives to meats. However, a closer analysis reveals that these adverse results are not indicative of a fading ‘’fad’’ but rather closely tied to the prevailing cost […]
Veggie Burger Debate Makes It To European Court Of Justice
Press Release: Veggie Burger Debate Makes It To European Court Of Justice [Brussels, 31 July 2023] – In a landmark development, the French Conseil d’Etat has taken a significant step in addressing the crucial issue of food labelling for plant-based products. The Conseil d’Etat has decided to transfer parts of the court case brought forward […]
EU Parliament Advances Nature Restoration Law But Setbacks Remain
The European Vegetarian Union (EVU) welcomes the recent passing of the Nature Restoration Law in the European Parliament (EP) on 12 July, which sets the stage for enhanced biodiversity and climate action across the European Union. While applauding this significant step towards environmental preservation (even if some of the amendments voted through are disappointing), the […]