The EU Parliament has approved a ban on using terms like 'beef', 'bacon', and 'egg white' on the labels of plant-based meat products, in a move that aims to prevent confusion among consumers. The proposal, which was backed by the Parliament, will now enter trilogue negotiations involving the EU Commission, Council, and Parliament, where all 27 member states will decide whether it becomes law. Supporters of the ban argue that using meat-like designations on plant-based products could mislead consumers, but studies have shown that the majority of EU citizens are not confused by such labeling.

Critics of the ban, including Green MEPs, question the necessity of the restrictions and argue that the focus should be on more pressing issues like climate change and societal divisions. The vote comes after over 200 companies and organizations urged EU lawmakers to reject the ban, highlighting the importance of supporting sustainable plant-based alternatives in Europe. Despite the decision, advocates for plant-based foods are determined to continue working towards a food system that is fair, sustainable, and future-proof.