Plant-based foods will no longer need strict labeling in Czechia

Czechia’s Ministry of Agriculture has decided against stricter labeling for plant-based meat alternatives in supermarkets and fast-food chains. The move, which will impact tens of thousands of products nationwide, comes as the giant Burger King chain launches a new campaign to spread awareness about plant-based diets.

Last summer, the ministry had proposed a ban on using certain meat-based names for plant-based alternatives. This would mean that terms like ham and bacon would not be allowed on labels for plant-sourced produce.

After considering feedback, Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný chose not to change the decree. He believes the current rules are enough and trusts manufacturers to label their products accurately. This decision has brought mixed reactions, with some praising the reduction of bureaucracy and others criticizing the prioritization of green-based producers' interests.

The national Food Chamber believes that plant-based alternatives should have different labels because they have different compositions. They are worried that consumers might think these products have the same nutritional value as meat.

A study published last year in cooperation with the State Agricultural and Food Inspection states that labeling plant products such as "almond milk," "vegan cream," "plant-based milk alternative," and "imitation yogurt," is illegal, citing different EU regulations.

In addition, it claimed that labels such as "egg-free" and "vegetarian eggs" violate EU law because plant-based products do not actually contain any of these foods.

Groups like ProVeg Czech Republic and the Union of Trade and Tourism previously expressed concerns about regulations that favor the meat industry, which may have influenced the government’s change of heart. 

Burger King recently announced that it teamed up with ProVeg Czech Republic to promote plant-based diets. The menu now features items like the Plant-Based Whopper, and Plant-Based Cheeseburger and nuggets, offering meat-free versions of customer favorites. The partnership aims to encourage sustainable eating habits and raise awareness of plant-based benefits.

Burger King Marketing manager Filip Vostrý has noted growing interest in plant-based options, citing a survey showing a third of Czechs considering reducing meat consumption, aligning with global trends. The new regulation comes as good news for the fast-food chain: it means it will likely sell more plant-based burgers.

The popularity of plant-based diets is increasing due to concerns about the environment and health. Brno has the highest number of vegans, but the trend is spreading across the country.

The ministry argued that this would provide clear information to consumers about the food's nature and composition. The decision to not implement this measure is seen as a victory for both producers and consumers of plant-based products.