European Parliament committee adopts balanced Beating Cancer Plan text

The European Parliament’s Health Committee has adopted a report on the implementation of the European Beating Cancer Plan (BECA). A key feature of the approved text is the distinction between general alcohol consumption and harmful or compulsive consumption, avoiding the controversial “no safe level” principle.

Industry representatives, including the Unione Italiana Vini (UIV) and the Associazione Nazionale Città del Vino, have welcomed the decision. They argue that the text provides a more balanced approach by not demonizing moderate consumption, which is vital for the economic stability of many European regions. The UIV noted that the text also recognizes industry progress in nutritional labeling and digital information.

While the committee approved the report with 27 votes in favor, 8 against, and 5 abstentions, the document must still undergo a plenary vote, likely in October. The industry remains cautious, as the text could still be modified during the plenary session. Current market pressures on the wine sector include a global volume decline of 11% over the last four years.