The Italian Chamber of Deputies has passed a law prohibiting the production and marketing of cultivated meat and imposing restrictions on the names of plant-based products. The legislation introduces fines ranging from €10,000 to €60,000 for violations, raising concerns about consumer choice and the potential isolation of Italy from the growing alternative protein industry.
Key points:
Cultivated meat ban: The law prohibits the production and marketing of cultivated meat, impacting a burgeoning industry that offers sustainable alternatives to traditional meat production. The fines associated with violations are seen as a deterrent against engagement in this sector.
Restrictions on plant-based product names: Plant-based products are barred from using familiar names associated with traditional meat, such as ‘salami’ or ‘steak.’ The law aims to eliminate terms like ‘plant-based salami’ or ‘vegan steak,’ impacting Italian companies in the plant-based meat sector.
Fines for violations: Violations of the law could result in fines ranging from €10,000 to €60,000, creating financial penalties for companies involved in the production and marketing of cultivated meat or the use of specific terms for plant-based products.
Concerns and opposition: Critics, including the Good Food Institute Europe and the Italian Alliance for Complementary Proteins, raise concerns about consumer choice, innovation stifling, and potential violations of EU law. The move is perceived as regressive, hindering Italy’s participation in the emerging job-creating industry.
Impact on domestic meat production: Given Italy’s self-sufficiency rate for beef at 42.5%, supporting the domestic production of cultivated meat could play a crucial role in bridging the gap between demand and domestic production.
Consumer interest in cultivated meat: A survey reveals that 55% of Italian consumers are interested in buying cultivated meat, and 75% believe it is necessary to reduce conventional meat consumption, reflecting a growing interest in alternative protein sources.
Global trends in cultivated meat: While Italy enforces restrictive measures, other European countries, such as the Netherlands, the UK, Denmark, and Spain, are actively supporting and investing in the development of cultivated meat and alternative protein sources.
Environmental benefits of cultivated meat: Scientific studies highlight that cultivated meat could lead to up to 92% fewer emissions than conventional beef, reduce air pollution by up to 94%, and utilize up to 90% less land, contributing to environmental sustainability.
The controversial law in Italy reflects a divergence from the global trend of embracing alternative proteins and sustainable food solutions. It raises questions about Italy’s stance on innovation, consumer preferences, and its role in the evolving landscape of the food industry.
