ProVeg urges new EU Agri Commissioner, Christophe Hansen, to prioritize climate action and support plant-based food plan

ProVeg International has called on the newly appointed EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Luxembourg's Christophe Hansen, to prioritize the proposed EU Action Plan for Plant-based Foods. The plan, which aims to strengthen Europe’s plant-based food systems, was presented to the European Commission earlier this year and is expected to be implemented by 2026. The plant-based food sector, ProVeg argues, offers a vital solution to Europe's pressing challenges related to climate change, health, and food security.

During his recent interview with European Parliament Members, Hansen discussed adopting a "holistic" approach to food systems but focused more on agriculture than food policy. While he acknowledged the need for a more resilient food system, Hansen did not commit to adopting the EU Action Plan, despite its growing consensus as a sustainable path forward.

ProVeg's Global CEO, Jasmijn de Boo, emphasized the urgent need for leadership on this issue. "Plant-based diets offer a multi-pronged solution for Europe, addressing the climate crisis, health concerns, and food security." The Action Plan, which aims to boost plant-based food production and consumption, has been welcomed by numerous environmental and health advocates.

Despite Hansen’s remarks suggesting that the EU should not dictate consumer choices, ProVeg argues that the science supporting plant-based diets as the most sustainable option is clear. Soizic Larcher, EU Policy Officer at ProVeg, stressed the importance of shifting towards plant-based diets to meet Europe's emission reduction goals. "There is broad scientific consensus now that plant-based diets are the most sustainable diet," Larcher stated.

Hansen also mentioned the need for Europe to produce more protein for livestock, but ProVeg advocates for using European-grown crops to support the growing demand for plant-based foods instead. According to the Smart Protein Project, which is funded by the EU, Europeans are already reducing their meat intake, a trend that should be supported by policymakers.

The EU Action Plan for Plant-based Foods outlines several key actions, including updated food labeling rules to help consumers make informed choices, a multi-tiered animal welfare label, and policies to make plant-based foods more accessible and affordable. These measures are designed to increase plant-based food availability and encourage a shift towards healthier, more sustainable diets.

ProVeg is hopeful that Hansen, if appointed, will champion this plan and take inspiration from Denmark’s early adoption of a plant-based action plan. As the new political term begins, the organization is urging the European Commission to take bold steps to implement policies that can drive positive change for both the environment and public health.