There is an international consensus that animal husbandry and the excessive consumption of meat pose environmental and health risks. Consuming animal based products is however of important cultural value for many societies. For many people consuming animal based products is habitual and considered a sign of wealth and status. In other instances it can be a part of traditional cuisine or used in religious or cultural rites and practices. For some, consuming animal based products remains a necessity for subsistence.
This issue deals with the question of how to stimulate the alternatives to meat within the cultural boundaries and values of various Member States.The committee should draft recommendations for accomplishing this goal.