EUVEPRO welcomes the adoption of the European Parliament’s Protein Strategy

EUVEPRO, the association representing European manufacturers of plant-based protein ingredients for human consumption, welcomes the European Protein Strategy report adopted by the European Parliament (EP) in yesterday’s Plenary in Strasbourg. This own-initiative report, led by MEP Emma Wiesner within the responsible EP AGRI Committee, sets out a vision for enhanced protein production as well as for the development of plant-based and alternative protein for food and feed. The strategy also puts forward a number of policy recommendations.

‘This protein strategy is a significant step that recognises the role plant-based proteins for food can play in a sustainable food system and for human health. It is important to ‎adopt a whole protein value chain approach in order to create added value for plant-based protein sources, ‎which are processed into high quality ingredients. This needs to be supported by a viable, ‎scalable and innovative ecosystem around plant-based protein as well as a strong policy framework.’ - states Nuria Moreno, EUVEPRO's Secretary-General.

EUVEPRO and its members support the EP’s recognition of plant-based proteins as key ingredients in the transition to sustainable food ‎systems as well as contributors to a greener agriculture and climate mitigation. In addition, the Strategy highlights the need to invest in research and development, including for the processing of protein crops and cereals.

Over the past decade, market research conducted by EUVEPRO demonstrated a remarkable diversification in the use of plant-based proteins in foods and beverages across Europe. While traditional protein sources like wheat and soy remain well-established in the foods we consume, emerging proteins such as pea, rice, potato, fava bean, lentils, and canola are rapidly gaining ground. From bakery and cereal products to ready-made meals, meat products and meat alternatives, dairy alternatives, and specialized nutrition, these plant-based proteins offer versatile options.

EUVEPRO commends the European Parliament's own-initiative report as a positive step in updating the EU Plant Proteins policy, which is expected to be unveiled in Q1 2024. Our association is committed to working closely with the European Commission and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the European Protein Strategy and to promote the growth of plant-based proteins for food in Europe.

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About EUVEPRO

EUVEPRO is the European Vegetable Protein Association, representing the interests of manufacturers of plant-based proteins for human consumption in Europe. Founded in 1977, EUVEPRO’s membership is composed of processing companies that deliver high quality plant protein ingredients. EUVEPRO promotes the recognition of plant-based proteins as essential food ingredients that lead to healthy people and healthy planet.