EU eyes ban on 'sausage' & 'burger' for plant-based foods

The European Union is considering a ban that would prohibit plant-based products from using terms such as 'sausage' or 'burger.' This potential legislation has sparked significant opposition, with Sir Paul McCartney actively campaigning against it. He argues that terms like 'vegetarian' or 'vegan' should suffice to inform consumers, emphasizing the positive impact such clarity has on health and environmental well-being.

Other prominent figures, including a group of cross-party MPs, have also voiced their objections, sending a letter to European commissioners. They contend that the ban could create confusion and undermine the EU's sustainability goals, asserting that consumers intentionally choose plant-based alternatives and are not misled by current labeling practices. The proposal, championed by French lawmaker Céline Imart, aims to protect the clarity of traditional meat product names.

While the United Kingdom, excluding Northern Ireland, is set to escape this regulatory change due to Brexit, Northern Ireland faces potential disruption. Unionist politicians have expressed outrage, viewing it as an imposition of EU law without local consent. The Northern Ireland Assembly has the power to delay the ban using the 'Stormont brake,' though its effectiveness remains uncertain.