The names of meat products will be protected – the European Commission’s new proposal shows the way

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 07. 30. 12:01

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The European Commission is taking another step towards a more transparent and fairer food market: the proposed amendment to the regulation as part of the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) would introduce clear rules for the protection of the names of meat products. The initiative was welcomed by Farm Europe and EAT Europe, highlighting that it is time for names such as “burger”, “sausage” and “steak” to no longer be used in a misleading way for plant-based or imitation products – writes Agrarszektor.

According to the two organizations, the proposal is an important step forward in protecting consumers, in the transparency of the food chain and in recognizing the work of farmers involved in animal husbandry. The aim is for the names to accurately reflect the true composition and origin of the product – similar to the stricter regulations already in force in the dairy sector.

The “Words Matter” campaign has long stressed the urgent need for a legal framework that helps consumers clearly distinguish between animal products and plant-based or laboratory-produced alternatives. These imitations are often highly processed and have a different nutritional profile – their misleading marketing can distort the market and undermine informed consumer decisions.

The European Commission’s proposal therefore not only aims to clarify names, but also to promote transparency within the internal market, in particular with regard to the composition and nutritional content of foods. This could be particularly important for consumers who base their purchasing decisions on the traditional nutritional values of meat products.

The issue is further heightened by an upcoming study by EAT Europe that analyses food sustainability issues. The report will be presented at the European Parliament on 14 October 2025, at an event organised by MEP Herranz Garcia. The presentation will also be attended by Oliver Várhelyi, the European Union Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare.