Paul McCartney is taking action against a proposed ban by the European Union that would restrict the use of terms such as “burger” and “sausage” for plant-based foods. In October 2023, members of the European Parliament voted to reserve these names exclusively for meat products. The European Commission is expected to make a decision on the issue later this week.
At 83 years old, McCartney has been a longstanding advocate for vegetarianism. He co-founded the Meat Free Monday campaign with his daughters, Mary and Stella, in 2009 to promote plant-based eating. His late wife, Linda McCartney, established a successful food brand in the 1990s that focuses on plant-based sausages, burgers, and pies.
In a statement, McCartney emphasized that labeling plant-based foods with descriptors such as “plant-based,” “vegetarian,” or “vegan” should suffice for consumers to understand what they are purchasing. He remarked, “This also encourages attitudes which are essential to our health and that of the planet.”
A letter signed by the McCartney family, along with a cross-party group of UK Members of Parliament, highlighted the interconnectedness of UK markets and the EU, despite Brexit. “Decisions taken at EU level continue to influence global norms, international trade and the direction of sustainable food innovation,” the letter stated. They urged EU officials not to adopt the restrictions, expressing concern about the potential global impact.
McCartney has previously called for changes in dietary policies, including an end to mandatory meat in school meals in England. Earlier in 2023, he also reached out to COP30 president Andre Correa do Lago to advocate for a fully meat-free menu at the conference.
As the debate over food labeling continues, McCartney’s involvement brings a high-profile perspective to a topic that intersects health, environmental sustainability, and consumer rights. The outcome of the EU’s decision will likely have significant implications not just in Europe, but globally.
