Thomas Schröder, President of the German Animal Welfare Federation, comments on the report presented today by the Scientific Advisory Board for Agricultural Policy, Nutrition and Consumer Health Protection (WBAE) entitled ‘Alternative products to animal-based foods as a contribution to a more sustainable diet’:
"At a time when the topic of nutrition is often polarising, the new report now provides the insight that social support for plant-based alternatives is significantly greater than the political debate would suggest. What has been lacking so far, however, is the political will to consistently shape and steer this change. Concrete measures are needed, such as tax equality for plant-based products, transparent product labelling, better data on consumer eating habits and support for farmers who want to move away from animal husbandry.
Politicians must not lose touch – they must support the social movement towards a more plant-based diet instead of slowing it down. When a Bavarian minister-president declares war on veganism, it shows how far removed some politicians are from reality and the challenges of our time. The answer to this is not ideological trench warfare – but fact-based, forward-looking policies, as outlined by the Scientific Advisory Board.
A diet that focuses on plant-based alternatives is good for animals, good for human health – and good for the planet. It is crucial not to replace meat with other animal products, such as insect protein. Animals suffer here too, and studies question the claimed benefits of insect protein. There is no human right to meat, but there is certainly a right to food."
