In early November, the Czech Chamber of Deputies hosted a seminar titled “New Trends in the Food Industry – an opportunity for the Czech Economy, a healthier society and a sustainable future?”.
Organized by Klára Kocmanová, Vice President of the Environment Committee, and sponsored by the Ministers of Environment and Health, this event gathered food producers, retailers, and specialists to discuss advancing alternative protein sources. ProVeg Czechia‘s food industry and retail consultant, Tereza Trávníčková, initiated the seminar, highlighting the increasing adoption of plant-based diets among Czechs and the importance of achieving price parity.
“Price significantly influences consumer decisions. Czech consumers face significant price differences: they pay over 160% more for a plant-based alternative to minced meat and almost 60% more for a plant-based alternative to cow’s milk. Affordability is crucial to promote the acceptance of plant-based products,” says Trávníčková.
Romana Nýdrle, Retail Director of the Czech Association of Trade and Tourism, underscored the necessity of reducing animal food consumption to meet climate goals and the potential of transitioning to plant-based alternatives. She raised concerns about the Czech market’s challenges, particularly the Czech Agricultural and Food Inspection Service’s (SZPI) stringent interpretation of laws affecting competition, labeling, and product placement.
The seminar focused on the dual challenges of labeling restrictions and higher costs as primary obstacles in leveraging the growth of plant-based diets. ProVeg Czechia’s recent legal action, led by Plicka & Partners, countered attempts to restrict the naming of plant-based products, influencing a shift in government stance. This underscores the critical role of government support in promoting the accessibility of plant-based options.
Romana Nýdrle, Retail Director of the Czech Association of Trade and Tourism, underscored the necessity of reducing animal food consumption to meet climate goals and the potential of transitioning to plant-based alternatives. She raised concerns about the Czech market’s challenges, particularly the Czech Agricultural and Food Inspection Service’s (SZPI) stringent interpretation of laws affecting competition, labeling, and product placement.
The seminar focused on the dual challenges of labeling restrictions and higher costs as primary obstacles in leveraging the growth of plant-based diets. ProVeg Czechia‘s recent legal action, led by Plicka & Partners, countered attempts to restrict the naming of plant-based products, influencing a shift in government stance. This underscores the critical role of government support in promoting the accessibility of plant-based options.
The organizer of the seminar, Klára Kocmanová, commented, “I am pleased to initiate a discussion in the Chamber of Deputies about an issue that has a significant impact on our society. I see the potential that lies in new nutritional trends. If we approach them wisely, we can promote economic growth, support a healthier society, and adopt a more environmentally friendly approach.
“As Vice-Chair of the Environment Committee, I emphasize the importance of transitioning to a more plant-based diet as a key strategy to reduce the current significant environmental impact,” she added.
