A recent event brought together stakeholders from across the food system to discuss the EU Action Plan for Plant-Based Foods. The goal was to explore how Europe can become a global leader in sustainable, plant-based food production while also supporting farmers, improving public health, and addressing climate and environmental challenges.

Key Takeaways:

🌱 Plant-Based Foods as a Strategic Priority

Integrating more plant-based foods into European diets is crucial not only for climate and environmental objectives but also for improving public health and food security. The EU Action Plan must address the entire food system—considering production, distribution, processing, and consumption—to ensure a coherent and impactful transition.

🌱 Stronger Support for Farmers

Farmers are central to this shift and must be provided with the necessary tools and resources. More targeted investment and technical assistance are needed to help them diversify into plant-based food crops, particularly legumes and other protein-rich plants. This also offers an opportunity to attract younger generations into farming.

🌱 Reducing Structural Barriers

At present, high entry costs, market uncertainty, and a lack of tailored support discourage many farmers from transitioning. The EU Action Plan should provide clear, practical pathways to reduce these barriers—through both financial mechanisms and hands-on guidance—so farmers can make informed and confident choices.

🌱 Aligning with Policy Frameworks

National CAP (Common Agricultural Policy) strategic plans must include specific support for plant-based food production. Sectoral programmes should strengthen supply chains and foster the development of producer organisations. Environmental benefits should be rewarded through eco-schemes and rural development tools that prioritise results over specific crops.

🌱 Access to Finance and Expert Advice

A dedicated EU Just Transition funding mechanism for agriculture, supported by private financing and the European Investment Bank, could help de-risk investment in plant-based production. At the same time, farm advisory services must be improved and expanded to provide tailored technical support, especially in organic and agroecological practices.

🌱 Engaging Across the Value Chain

Farmers should be supported in moving beyond primary production and participating in processing, distribution, and even non-food uses of plant-based by-products. Cooperative models and partnerships with research institutions, local authorities, and universities can foster innovation and long-term success.

🌱 Strengthening Local Market Access

Creating local directories of farmers and small-scale food processors can help connect them with schools, restaurants, and consumers. These tools can support direct sales and help increase demand for locally produced, plant-based foods across the EU.