The Dutch government has decided to suspend the ban on labelling plant-based protein products as 'mince' until 2027, in order to await clarity on vegan labelling rules at the EU level. This decision comes after a law was introduced in the Netherlands that would fine vegan food producers for using the word 'mince' on their products. The EU is currently considering a wider ban on the use of meat-like terms on plant-based products, with a decision expected next week.

Recent polling has shown that consumers are not confused by plant-based meat labels, with 96% of respondents recognizing a vegetarian sausage as one without meat. Despite this, policymakers are still pushing for a ban on these labels, with the EU Commission, Council, and Parliament currently in negotiations. Advocacy groups are calling on the Dutch government to scrap the law altogether in order to protect consumers' freedom of choice and promote the growth of sustainable proteins.