Overview

• A new Greenpeace-commissioned study quantifies €140 billion in annual external costs from Germany's food system, including environmental and health damages.
• Meat production alone contributes €21 billion in environmental damages, while excessive meat consumption adds €16 billion in health costs annually.
• Sugar consumption is linked to €26 billion in annual health costs, surpassing the impact of meat consumption.
• Greenpeace and FÖS advocate for VAT exemptions on climate-friendly foods and higher taxes on environmentally harmful products to incentivize sustainable choices.
• Agriculture Minister Peter Hauk defends regional meat production, citing its potential benefits for biodiversity and climate resilience.