The debate over plant-based meat and dairy labeling has been heating up in recent years, with states like Iowa passing laws requiring terms like „fake“ or „imitation“ on plant-based meat alternatives. This trend, now seen in at least 16 states since 2018, reflects the rapid growth of the plant-based industry, which has seen a $4.2 billion increase from 2017-2023. As more consumers turn to plant-based alternatives, Big Meat and Big Dairy are pushing for restrictions on labeling terms like „milk“ and „sausage“ on plant-based products, citing consumer confusion and the need for transparency.
However, the real motive behind these labeling restrictions seems to be reducing competition rather than promoting consumer health. While plant-based products have environmental benefits and can be part of a healthy diet, the focus of the labeling wars appears to be profit-driven rather than health-oriented. As the plant-based industry continues to grow, it’s crucial to ensure that labeling policies prioritize consumer health, fairness, and transparency.
One argument against restrictive labeling policies is that current labeling practices are not misleading. Research shows that consumers are aware that plant-based products are not animal-derived, even when terms like „milk“ or „burger“ are used. Plant-based products already make it clear through marketing strategies that they are plant-based or vegetarian, so there is no need to restrict labeling terms that consumers understand.
However, while the plant-based industry offers alternatives to red and processed meats, not all plant-based products are equally healthy. Some plant-based meat analogues can contain high levels of sodium and saturated fat, potentially exceeding their animal-derived counterparts. Policies that prioritize industry interests without considering nutritional quality may not promote healthier diets. Front-of-package nutrition labeling, currently under development at the FDA, could help highlight important nutritional aspects of both plant- and animal-based products, promoting informed consumer choice.
Plant-based milks, in particular, require additional transparency due to the unique role of dairy in the diet, especially for children. While FDA guidance recommends voluntary label disclosures for plant-based milks that differ from cow’s milk in key nutrients, the current proposed disclosures are complex and may not be widely adopted. Making these disclosures mandatory and focusing on the most important nutrients, such as vitamin D, calcium, and protein, could improve consumer awareness and incentivize fortification of plant-based milk products.
In conclusion, as the plant-based industry continues to grow, it’s essential to prioritize consumer health in labeling policies. By finalizing policies that highlight key nutritional differences between plant- and animal-based products, the FDA can promote both consumer and environmental health in the ongoing plant-based labeling battle. With a focus on fairness, transparency, and informed consumer choice, we can ensure that plant-based products play a positive role in a sustainable and healthy food system.