Overview

• The amendment would reserve labels such as “Steak,” “Schnitzel,” “Hamburger” and “Wurst” for foods made from animals.
• Under current EU practice, plant-based items may use common meat names, according to Germany’s food ministry.
• Lead sponsor Céline Imart of the EPP says the measure strengthens consumer protection by reducing confusion and safeguarding farmers’ reputations.
• Retailers and producers including Aldi Süd, Lidl, Burger King, Beyond Meat and Rügenwalder Mühle oppose the change, warning of costly rebranding and reduced clarity, with Rügenwalder estimating mid–single-digit millions in immediate costs.
• Public opinion in Germany is divided, with a YouGov survey showing 50% favor reserving such names, as the country’s plant-based output reached about 121,600 tonnes in 2024, roughly double since 2019.