Alt-Protein Groups Say EU’s 35% Protein Feed Target Has a Loophole

The European Commission has set a target to increase the share of EU-grown protein used in animal feed from 25.8% to 35% by 2035, as part of its Protein Action Plan. While this plan aims to address food and feed protein production, there is no equivalent binding target for protein grown for direct human consumption. Organizations such as the Good Food Institute (GFI) Europe and the European Vegetarian Union (EVU) have welcomed the plan's recognition of the need for more homegrown protein crops but have called for more concrete measures and funding to reduce reliance on animal agriculture.

The GFI Europe has criticized the lack of funding commitments in the plan to scale up plant-based proteins and fermentation, while citing examples from other countries that have implemented successful schemes to incentivize farmers to grow protein crops. The EVU has pointed out that the 35% feed target could be easily achieved by increasing human consumption of plant proteins, highlighting the need for a more balanced approach in the EU's protein production and consumption goals. Both organizations are advocating for a more comprehensive and dedicated EU plant-based action plan to ensure a diverse, resilient, and competitive protein future for Europe.