Overview

• On July 11, the Bundesrat’s agricultural committee recommended full repeal of the mandatory state animal welfare labeling law ahead of a full Bundesrat vote.
• Several federal states, including those governed by Green Party coalitions, argue that the law lacks funding for animal-friendly housing, imposes excessive checks and puts domestic farmers at a disadvantage compared to imports.
• The law’s mandatory rollout was delayed from August 2025 to March 2026 due to administrative and logistical hurdles cited by states and industry.
• Consumer group Foodwatch condemned the repeal proposal as a setback for transparency, calling it a “free pass” for the meat industry.
• Experts warn that adding another mandatory welfare logo could confuse shoppers and undermine credibility, leading retailers like Aldi to expand voluntary Initiative Tierwohl labels instead.