“There is No Problem to Fix”: UK Government Urged to Reject Plant-Based Dairy Labelling Guidance

ProVeg UK has urged the UK government to reject guidance that would restrict the labelling of plant-based dairy alternatives, arguing that the proposed restrictions would stifle the industry's growth. The guidance, drawn up by the FSIFG, aims to prevent plant-based dairy companies from using terms like "not milk" or "cheeze". However, research shows that consumers are well aware of the distinction between dairy products and plant-based alternatives, making the restrictions unnecessary.

Members of Parliament, industry organizations, and food awareness groups have all criticized the proposed guidance, with accusations that it is intended to put the plant-based industry at a disadvantage. Calls have been made for the UK government to follow in the footsteps of the US, where FDA guidance allows the use of terms like "oat milk" based on consumer understanding. Overall, there is no clear problem that needs fixing, and it is argued that the restrictions would do more harm than good to the plant-based industry in the UK.