Victory for Plant-Based Labels: France Overturns Ban on Meat Terms
In a major win for the plant-based industry, France’s Conseil d’État (Council of State) has officially overturned legislation that would have banned plant-based brands from using terms such as “steak,” “ham,” and “sausage” on their product labels. This decision marks a turning point in the global fight for fair legislation and is being celebrated as a victory of common sense by companies across the plant-based sector.
Leading the charge was La Vie, a French plant-based meat company known for its bold and humorous marketing. In a triumphant LinkedIn post, the company declared:
ON A GAGNÉ. (We won.)
The Council of State has officially announced the annulment of the decrees and the law—pushed by lobbying groups—that sought to ban plant-based alternatives from using words like “steak,” “ham,” or “sausage.”
After years of intense legal battles, David has finally defeated Goliath. Your favorite products can keep their familiar names—terms that clearly help consumers understand their use and make plant-based eating more accessible, as scientists have recommended for over a decade.
This landmark ruling signals a shift away from restrictive regulations designed to protect the traditional meat industry and toward a fairer marketplace where consumers can make informed choices without unnecessary barriers.
Why This Ruling Matters for the Global Plant-Based Industry
The debate over labeling plant-based products with meat-related terms has been an ongoing battle in Europe and beyond. France initially pushed forward one of the strictest labeling laws in the EU, arguing that terms like “vegan sausage” or “plant-based steak” could mislead consumers. However, critics—including industry leaders, scientists, and plant-based advocates—pointed out that these terms actually help consumers understand the product’s intended use, making plant-based options more accessible.
This ruling sets a powerful precedent and aligns with similar victories in other countries:
- The European Union previously rejected a continent-wide ban on plant-based meat labels, allowing companies to continue using familiar terms.
- South Africa overturned its attempt to ban plant-based meat terms, following strong opposition from plant-based businesses.
- The United States has seen multiple legal challenges to restrictions on dairy-free labeling, particularly around terms like “almond milk” and “oat milk.”
These wins highlight a growing global consensus: plant-based brands deserve the same freedom to communicate with consumers as their animal-based counterparts.
A Call for Fair Legislation, Not Protectionism
The ruling in France is not just about terminology—it’s about fair competition. As demand for plant-based foods rises, some traditional meat and dairy industries have pushed for restrictive laws to slow down the category’s growth. However, consumer behavior is clear: people want plant-based options, and they want to be able to identify them easily.
Rather than limiting plant-based brands, policymakers should focus on clear, fair labeling laws that prioritize transparency and consumer choice—not corporate protectionism.
