New research commissioned by ProVeg International suggests that shifting EU public food procurement to 85% plant-based menus could result in €11.61 billion in annual savings and avoided costs, taking into account environmental and health impacts. The research, conducted by Bryant Research, highlights the potential benefits of transitioning public institutions such as schools, hospitals, and military facilities to plant-based menus.

The report emphasizes the importance of public procurement as a powerful tool for addressing climate and health concerns, with schools identified as a key intervention point due to their significant contribution to animal-based food consumption in the EU. The findings come at a crucial time as the European Commission prepares to revise the EU Public Procurement Directive, with proposed reforms expected to focus on incorporating sustainability criteria in public spending. The research advocates for targeted legislative amendments to fully unlock the economic and environmental benefits of plant-forward procurement in the EU.