European Parliament debates naming restrictions for meat alternatives

A debate regarding the naming of plant-based products has resurfaced within the European Parliament. New amendments have been submitted to a legislative proposal concerning the common market organization for agricultural products, seeking to expand restrictions on terms such as ‘veggieburger’, ‘tofuworst’, and ‘vegetarische schnitzel’.

This follows a June 2026 decision where the European Parliament approved broader legislation allowing general product names like ‘burger’ and ‘sausage’ for vegetarian alternatives, while placing certain restrictions on specific animal-related references. The current proposals are awaiting a decision from the Agriculture Committee, which will determine if the committee supports the amendments or if a new vote is required.

Consumer organization Foodwatch and various plant-based industry groups oppose the new restrictions. They argue that terms like ‘tofu sausage’ clearly inform consumers of the product's contents and that further limitations could impact product labeling and consumer recognition in retail environments.