Czech Government Moves to Restrict Terms for Plant-Based Foods

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The Czech government intends to introduce legislation that prohibits manufacturers of plant-based products from labelling their items as “soy sausage” or “bean burger”. Despite officials’ claims that the proposed amendment seeks to safeguard consumer interests, detractors contend it may instead generate ambiguity and imperil commercial entities.

ProVeg Czechia, a leading advocate for plant-based living, argues that the government’s proposed legislation prioritizes shielding the meat industry over empowering consumers with informed choices. According to a YouGov survey commissioned by the group, 70% of respondents expressed support for using familiar terminology when referring to plant-based food options. In fact, a staggering 80% of survey respondents grasped the fact that plant-based alternatives such as soy sausages are entirely meat-free. Without further clarification on European regulations, ProVeg’s observation on the absence of consumer complaints regarding plant-based labelling appears to imply that existing laws effectively safeguard against deceptive packaging, rendering concerns over stricter guidelines unnecessary.

The proposed amendment has come under fire for its glaring omission: the absence of a comprehensive regulatory impact assessment, which is a mandatory component for any measure that may have substantial economic implications? The Ministry of Agriculture claims the new law won’t imperil commercial interests, yet ProVeg vehemently disagrees, forecasting a ripple effect on plant-based industries, with producers and restaurateurs facing costly menu revamps and rebranding efforts.

ProVeg has kicked off a high-profile initiative, “Soy Sausage in Defense of Free Speech,” calling on authorities to reverse the proposed censorship amendment. The ruling by the European Union court allows member states to employ traditional meat-related terminology for plant-based products, provided labels transparently disclose their composition. The decision’s invalidation of a comparable endeavour in France raises questions about the legitimacy of the Czech initiative.

Despite the government’s previous receptiveness to plant-based cuisine, the recent decision still comes as a surprise to many. In 2022, the Chamber of Deputies convened a thought-provoking seminar focused on innovative protein alternatives. Martin Ranninger, co-director of ProVeg Czechia, expressed concern that the Ministry of Agriculture is seemingly swayed by the animal industry’s interests at the expense of a more balanced approach. The official stressed that the mooted decree directly clashes with the administration’s pledge to streamline regulations for entrepreneurs and instead favors the meat sector at the expense of environmentally friendly options.