Dispute over 'Tofu Sausage': Association sees relaxed naming - EU Parliament Votes to Ban 'Meaty' Names for Plant-Based Foods
A survey by YouGov has revealed that half of Germans (50 percent) believe plant-based alternatives should have different names from traditional meat terms. Meanwhile, the European Parliament has voted to ban terms like 'Tofu Sausage' and 'Veggie Burger', a move that has sparked debate.
The European Parliament voted on October 8, 2025, in Strasbourg to reserve terms such as 'steak', 'schnitzel', 'hamburger', and 'sausage' exclusively for animal-based products. However, this decision is not yet final, as it requires majority approval by EU member states. The agricultural marketing association Pro Agro in Brandenburg does not object to names like 'Tofu Sausage' or 'Veggie Burger'.
Pro Agro's managing director Kai Rückewold supports the use of classic names for vegetarian products if they match the consumer's familiar image. He emphasizes the importance of comprehensive ingredient labeling for both meat and plant-based products. Consumer advocates, however, criticize the proposed ban, arguing that it could mislead consumers and stifle innovation in the plant-based sector.
The EU Parliament must now negotiate with EU countries to finalize the new rules regarding the naming of plant-based products. Until then, the use of traditional meat terms for plant-based alternatives remains a contentious issue, with consumers, industry, and policymakers holding differing views.
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