Next month the European authorities will discuss a possible ban on the use of certain terms to designate plant-based alternatives to dairy, better known as “Amendment 171”. Alpro is calling on Europe to speak out against that amendment.
“Excessive and counterproductive”
If the new restrictions are approved, designations such as “alternative to yoghurt”, “contains no milk” would no longer be allowed to be used for plant-based alternatives. And if the amendment is interpreted in the strictest sense, even a term such as “creamy” would no longer be acceptable to describe the texture of a plant-based product. It is even possible that typical ‘dairy packaging’, such as milk cartons, would be prohibited for plant-based products.
Alpro calls on Member States, Parliament and the Commission to oppose Amendment 171. The brand argues that a clear framework already exists (e.g. the designation “soy milk” is banned in the EU) and that the new restrictions are “unnecessary, excessive and counterproductive”.
In conflict with climate ambitions
For example, Alpro does not believe that adding new restrictions to plant based “denominations” will enhance consumer information in any way. On the contrary, the company is convinced it will disrupt their understanding of the offer and will limit their ability to make informed choices. Furthermore, Alpro believes that the provisions also unfairly discriminate against vegetable products.
Moreover, the brand believes that the restrictions go against the European climate ambitions, which consider more vegetable products as part of a nutritious and sustainable food system. Finally, Alpro points out that no impact assessment was carried out for Amendment 171. According to the company, “its negative impacts on consumers, the environment and the plant-based food sector would be disproportionate to its legitimate aim.”
