Rise of Plant-Based Diets in the EU: The Influence of Culture and Economy on Food Choices
EU member states are increasingly incorporating climate change considerations into their dietary guidelines. However, economic and cultural disparities across nations hinder the establishment of a unified EU approach to sustainable and healthy eating.
Recently, Austria updated its dietary guidelines to include the climate impact of food choices and to offer specific recommendations for vegetarians. The Austrian Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, and Consumers emphasized the need to expand nutritional recommendations in light of the food system’s role in driving climate change.
Vienna’s initiative aligns with similar efforts from Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, Spain, and Sweden, which have updated their guidelines in response to sustainability and health prompts. This trend resonates with the World Health Organization (WHO), where Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus advocated for a shift towards more plant-based diets at the COP28 UN Climate Change Conference.
Over 100 countries, including all EU members, have developed national dietary guidelines promoting healthy eating patterns, though they vary greatly regarding sustainability. These differences often stem from local food cultures and economic realities. Manuel Franco, an epidemiologist, stated that dietary choices are deeply intertwined with societal and economic factors.
For instance, Austria recommends consuming fish only once a week, while Spain, a key fish producer within the EU, suggests at least three servings per week. Franco highlighted the inherent tension in developing dietary guidelines, with decisions often reflecting prioritization among health, economy, and sustainability.
Alcohol guidelines also differ, with Greece endorsing a Mediterranean diet that allows for moderate daily wine consumption, reflecting cultural traditions. Franco noted that dietary guidelines sometimes focus solely on health or cultural aspects, sidelining scientific evidence.
A growing trend in dietary guidelines is the emphasis on plant-based foods while reducing meat and dairy intake. Austrian recommendations suggest limiting meat and fish to once a week, equating to about three chicken nuggets per day. Countries like Finland, France, and Poland recommend higher amounts of meat.
Germany’s recent guidelines also advocate for a plant-based diet, urging citizens to reduce meat consumption. The Netherlands previously encouraged a reduction of meat intake and offered vegetarian tips, while Italy took a balanced approach, affirming the importance of some animal products for nutritional completeness.
The guidelines from Sweden and Denmark similarly promote lowering meat consumption, acknowledging that while dairy products have an environmental impact, they also support agricultural diversity.
Franco stressed the importance of ensuring that societal behavior aligns with evolving dietary guidelines. Investments in public procurement, particularly in school canteens, were mentioned as crucial for promoting healthy, sustainable diets. Environmental NGO WWF Europe supported Austria’s initiative and called for further public actions, such as reducing prices for plant-based products and improving labeling for animal welfare.
Franco underscored social justice as a vital aspect of sustainability, advocating for accessible healthy food options for all citizens, irrespective of their economic status, to address the root causes of diet-related diseases linked to inequality.
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John Peterson graduated with a degree in Agricultural Sciences from Wageningen University in the Netherlands. His specialization is in sustainable crop production and soil health management. John is passionate about integrating modern technology with traditional farming methods to enhance productivity while preserving the environment. He currently works as a consultant, helping farmers adopt sustainable practices.