The Barcelona Court of Appeal has ruled in favor of Heura Foods in a legal dispute brought by six meat industry groups, clearing the company of most unfair competition claims. The court found that Heura's social media communications were not misleading or denigrating, citing scientific literature and institutional sources. Imposing sanctions on Heura would have violated freedom of expression under the Spanish Constitution, according to the ruling. The court also addressed labelling terminology, allowing terms like "burger" and "sausage" for plant-based products as long as their nature is clearly communicated.

Heura, founded in 2017, has faced legal challenges over its environmental communications with the traditional meat sector. The company has shared its plant-based frankfurter recipe with major Spanish meat producers and highlighted research projecting economic benefits from investing in alternative proteins in Spain. CEO Marc Coloma emphasized the importance of protecting innovation and communication in the food sector for the benefit of consumers, companies, farmers, and Europe's future.