EU To Debate Banning 'Burger' And 'Sausage' Labels For Plant-Based Foods — Talks Continue

EU governments and lawmakers meet this week to decide whether to reserve meat-related names such as 'burger' and 'sausage' exclusively for products that contain meat. The proposal is part of a larger package aimed at protecting farmers and supporting the agricultural sector.

Who Is Involved

Supporters — notably livestock farmers and industry groups such as France's Interbev — argue that plant-based products that mimic meat risk confusing consumers and undermine recognition of traditional meat products. Opponents include consumer groups, environmental campaigners, major retailers in Germany (Europe's largest market for plant-based alternatives), and some public figures such as Paul McCartney.

What Happened So Far

In October, Members of the European Parliament backed a proposal to reserve a list of terms, including 'burger' and 'sausage', for foodstuffs containing meat. The EU's 27 member states must now negotiate the measure with Parliament as part of the broader farmer-support package. Officials say multiple rounds of talks may be required before a compromise is reached.

Paul McCartney and other signatories wrote: "We urge you not to adopt these restrictions, as we are deeply concerned about the significant global impact they could have. The evidence is clear: existing legislation already protects consumers; consumers themselves overwhelmingly understand and support current naming conventions."

Market Trends And Stakes

Sales of plant-based alternatives to meat in the EU have grown roughly five-fold since 2011, according to BEUC, the consumer rights group. The surge has been driven by concerns about animal welfare, greenhouse gas emissions from livestock farming, and health considerations. Retailers warn that restricting commonly used names could confuse shoppers and complicate product marketing and labeling.

Legal And Political Context

This debate is not new. France enacted a similar ban in 2024 to placate farmers, but it was overturned the following January after a ruling by the EU's highest court. A comparable proposal was also rejected by European lawmakers in 2020. The political landscape shifted after the 2024 European elections, which boosted parties with close ties to farming interests — yet there is still no clear consensus. Even some centre-right leaders, like Manfred Weber, have said the measure is "not a priority at all."

What To Watch: Negotiations between member states and the European Parliament will determine whether a restricted list of meat-related names is adopted and how any rules would be enforced. Officials warn further talks may be necessary before a final decision is reached.