The European Alliance for Plant-based Foods (EAPF) launched in Brussels yesterday with the mission of placing plant-based foods at the heart of governmental food policy, stating that plant-based foods have an integral role to play in achieving the EU’s sustainability targets.
The new organisation sets out to demonstrate to the EU that plantbased foods are vital to reaching the environmental goals of the EU Green Deal and the agri-food transition set forth in the Farm to Fork Strategy because they: provide more choice to consumers to diversify their diet to match their environmental, health and/or ethical concerns; stimulate companies to invest in research and innovation for healthier and more sustainable food products; and give farmers the chance to revalorise plant-based crop production.
The areas that the EAPF will work on in order to achieve these goals are:
- Policies and laws that recognise the role of plant-based foods in the sustainable transition and guarantee fair access to the EU market (from agricultural practices to food labelling);
- Investments in innovation in the plant-based food value chain;
- Clear rules to enable consumers to make conscious and well-informed choices about plant-based foods.
EAPF states that it is the only European multi-stakeholder coalition which 2brings together organisations in the plant-based food value chain–industry, NGOs and the scientific community –eager to work together to develop food systems that are beneficial for the people, the animals and the planet.”
Dr. Jeanette Fielding, Head of Corporate Affairs and Communication Officer of Upfield, states: “EAPF provides a unique platform for NGOs and industry to come together in one voice to advocate for a sustainable food system with plant-based foods at its heart. Through EAPF, Upfield’s ambition is to ensure plant-based food policy is aligned with the Farm to Fork Strategy and that the future regulatory framework is consistent with the EU’s progressive food system policy initiatives.”
Alexander Holst, Policy Manager at the Good Food Institute Europe, comments: “In Europe, we need plant-based meat, eggs, dairy, and seafood to deliver tasty and affordable food that consumers want. These products are crucial for Europe’s transition to a more healthy and sustainable food system. EU policymaking has a huge role to play in enabling this transition. That’s why we are thrilled to be a founding member of the European Alliance for Plant-based Foods and to raise our voices in support of a better food system.”
