ECJ allows the use of meat terms for substitute products

By: Trademagazin editor Date: 2024. 10. 11. 09:25

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ruled that EU Member States cannot generally ban the use of terms such as “steak” or “sausage” for plant-based products, provided the product’s packaging clearly indicates product ingredients.

Photo: Beyond Meat

The decision follows a case in France, where a government decree prohibited the use of terms basically referring to meat products for processed products containing plant-based proteins. Four organisations, including the European Vegetarian Union and Beyond Meat, have taken legal action against the decree.

The ECJ has ruled that product information on packaging in line with EU law provides consumers with sufficient protection, even if the ingredients of the product are different from those they are accustomed to.

The judgment underlines that Member States cannot generally prohibit manufacturers of plant-based products from using terms to describe their products. However, the authorities of each Member State may still take action in cases where the way in which a product is sold or advertised is potentially misleading to consumers.

The judgment strengthens the position of companies producing plant-based alternatives and can have a significant impact on the labelling and marketing of such products in the EU.

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