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The Commission presented to the Council its report on the development of plant proteins in the European Union. The report, adopted in November 2018, reviews the supply and demand situation for plant proteins (such as rapeseed, sunflower seeds or lentils) in the EU and explores ways in which to further develop their production in an economically and environmentally sound way.
Delegations broadly welcomed the Commission report on plant proteins and considered that it encompassed all the key actions to promote the development of plant proteins in the EU. In member states' view, focusing more on research, technology and innovation could be one of the ways to support the growth of protein production, together with establishing an EU-level information platform, and increasing consumer awareness.
While some delegations highlighted the positive effect on the environment of growing plant proteins, others warned against the indirect environmental effects of importing plant proteins, e.g deforestation.
Some of the CAP instruments (e.g. promotion measures, knowledge sharing, producer organisations, eco-schemes) were considered to be a possible support in the development of plant protein production in the EU. In this respect, the flexibility granted to member states to define their own CAP Strategic Plans in the future was welcomed by many. Delegations had divergent views as to the appropriateness of voluntary coupled support to reduce the EU plant protein deficiency.
The development of plant proteins in Europe is one of the priorities of the Romanian presidency.
Monday January 28, 2019/ Consilium/ European Union.
https://www.consilium.europa.eu
