Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-003113/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)
The Commission is indirectly promoting veganism through policies aimed at ‘EU sustainability, health and self-sufficiency’, envisaging a 55 % increase in the human consumption of plant proteins by 2032.
The farm to fork strategy and the European protein strategy promote the production of plant proteins, such as pulses, soya and alternative sources such as algae and microbial proteins.
A reduction in the consumption of red/processed meat is being promoted in parallel, for health and environmental reasons.
NGOs and alliances such as the European Alliance for Plant-Based Foods are advocating for the stronger integration of plant-based foods in European public procurement and dietary guidelines.
Although consumption of plant-based meat substitutes remains low, the EU is supporting research and investment in alternative sources of protein, promoting a shift towards more ‘vegan’ eating habits.
Some nutrients found in animal products are difficult to source in purely plant-based diets.
Vitamin B12, iron and EPA/DHA omega-3 can almost only be found in meat and fish. These nutrients are critical for the proper functioning of the nervous system, the production of blood cells and platelets and cardiovascular health. They are absorbed much better from animal sources than from plant-based ones.
Similarly, zinc, iodine, calcium, vitamin D and protein with the complete amino acid profile are very difficult to obtain through a vegan diet.
Does the Commission recognise that veganism can pose problems for human health?
Submitted: 28.7.2025