The EU Rejects Infamous ‘Dairy Ban’ Against Plant-Based Milk Companies!
If you’ve been keeping up with news in the vegan world over the past few months, you’ve likely heard of the major European ‘dairy ban’. This proposal, called Amendment 171, would have prohibited plant-based dairy alternative companies in the EU from:
Displaying the allergen information of their products.
Selling their products in packaging similar to that of their dairy counterparts (ex. milk cartons, blocks of butter, etc.).
Educating consumers on the climate impact of our food.
Showcasing images of their own products!
Naming or describing their products using terms like ‘creamy’, ‘butter-style’, or even ’milk alternative’.
Activists have pointed out that phrases like ‘peanut butter’ and ‘coconut milk’ have been used for ages, even though they are described using the ‘dairy-like’ terms ‘butter’ and ‘milk’. However, the European Parliament has banned terms like ‘vegan cheese’ and ‘almond milk’ regardless, and for now, these particular restrictions still apply.
“While the existing restrictions on everyday language like ‘soy milk’ remain, it is reassuring that European leaders have listened to consumers,” said Elena Walden, Policy Manager at the Good Food Institute Europe.
The proposal for the stricter labeling restrictions listed in the ‘dairy ban’ was finally rejected due to increasing pressure from vegan advocates, activists, and NGOs. In fact, one online petition to drop Amendment 171 received 300,000+ signatures!
Those who helped achieve this major victory for the vegan movement have described the ‘dairy ban’ as an ‘absurd’ attack against ‘common sense’. What did you think of Amendment 171, and what could this outcome mean for the plant-based food sector? Comment below and share your thoughts!