Carni Sostenibili, together with 124 other European organizations representing the diversity of Europe’s livestock and agrifood supply chains, launched a powerful appeal to the European Commission. The call advocates for a comprehensive, science-based EU Food Strategy that acknowledges the crucial role of animal proteins.

The appeal, titled “Nourishing Europe: The Importance of Animal Proteins”, highlights the vital contribution of livestock farming to food security, nutritional balance, rural vitality, and environmental sustainability. It warns against unbalanced policies favoring plant proteins, which could jeopardize Europe’s agri-food system, increase reliance on imports, and risk global emissions and rural livelihoods.

Why livestock matters:

• Food Security and Nutrition: Humans have evolved as omnivores, with animal-based protein playing a vital role in a balanced and nutritious diet. Livestock farming efficiently transforms inedible by-products into high-quality proteins while making use of marginal lands. These proteins aren’t just beneficial – they’re indispensable, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly and children. While plant-based diets can offer many nutrients, they often fall short of providing the full spectrum of high-quality proteins and micronutrients found in livestock products.
• Economic and Social Impact: Forcing a transition away from livestock agriculture could trigger serious economic disruptions, devastating regions where animal farming is central to local industry. Across Europe, farmers have invested time, resources, and innovation into building sustainable systems that deliver high-quality, healthy food. Undermining animal agriculture could devastate rural communities and boost imports, harming both competitiveness and the environment.
• Environmental Sustainability: Comparing plant-based and animal-based agriculture requires a full understanding of their respective impacts. While livestock do produce methane, it remains in the atmosphere for only about a decade – unlike fossil fuel emissions, which persist for centuries. Moreover, livestock waste plays a vital role in sustainable farming. Manure enriches soil naturally, supporting plant growth without the need for synthetic, chemical-based fertilizers. Without it, farmers are left relying on industrial alternatives.

The signatories urge EU policymakers to develop a resilient and diversified food system that harmoniously integrates crop and livestock production, promoting sustainable practices without ideological biases. We fully endorse this approach: balance is key to building a resilient and sustainable food system that serves both people and the planet. Only through a balanced, evidence-based approach can Europe secure sustainable and healthy diets for everyone.

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