On 5 November, the Green REV Institute participated in the standing subcommittee on food safety, the elimination of unfair food handling practices and the direct sale and retail of farm-made products. The theme of the subcommittee was support for the plant-based animal protein substitute industry.

The Green REV Institute position paper was delivered by Morgan Janowicz, Partnership Coordinator: ‘The transformation towards plant-based proteins is not only possible, but actually necessary, cost-effective and beneficial for Poland for a number of reasons.

First and foremost, the development of a market for plant-based proteins for humans helps to combat the climate crisis. The production of plant protein sources generates far fewer greenhouse gases than animal farming, and the crops themselves need less water – by 2035, switching to protein alternatives could save enough water to supply London for 40 years. In addition, it reduces deforestation and supports biodiversity, which is crucial to our environment and food security. In the context of the events of recent years and the dramas – wildlife, environment, people, cities – we need to get on the path of developing plant protein for people. The UNEP What’s cooking report of 2023 also talks about this, pointing out the need for state support, developing strategies and public policies for plant protein.

With this transformation, we can also positively impact public health. Plant proteins are rich in fibre and healthy fats, which supports cholesterol control and reduces the risk of heart disease, obesity and type II diabetes. Research also shows that a plant-based diet benefits mental health, as it contains amino acids that stimulate serotonin production, improving mood. We talk a lot about health, but public health cannot be saved without redesigning the food system here and now. This redesign has to start in schools, and here I must firstly point to our Plant Based School Programme, which has huge public support and the backing of policy makers. I also have to tell you what schools are serving on their plates today, based on our latest report Vegans and vegans in school canteens: almost 80 % of meals are meat- and fish-based. We will not build healthy generations this way.

Poland has great potential to become a leader in the production of plant-based proteins. To realise this, we must act on three fronts. In the educational dimension, we need to run information campaigns and introduce plant-based meals in schools so that the younger generation is more aware of healthy and sustainable food options. On the strategic dimension, we need to redesign the Common Agricultural Policy to become a Policy for Healthy Food. On the communication dimension, cooperation with the media and systemic actions targeting retail chains can help promote plant proteins as affordable and healthy options. Here I would add that it is clear from our 2023 study that retail chains like Lidl, Biedronka, Dino, Żabka, Kaufland direct our shopping baskets through advertising, price, trade wars or regulations to the meat and dairy shelves. This must change.

By taking these steps, we will not only increase Poland’s income and competitiveness in the European market, but also improve the health of society and help protect the environment. Therefore, I appeal to policy makers and decision makers – it is time for a plant food promotion fund for people, it is time for a plant sector development strategy and it is time for a food strategy for Poland as a foundation for action for people, animals, the planet, health and the future. ’

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