In a landmark move, the Danish government has unveiled the world's first national action plan aimed at promoting a transition towards a predominantly plant-based food system.
The initiative was released by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries of Denmark and is a key component of the 2021 political agricultural agreement.
A meat alternative or meat substitute (also called plant-based meat, mock meat, artificial meat or, more commonly fake meat in Australia), is a food product made from plant ingredients such as soy and processed to approximate qualities of specific types of meat, such as mouthfeel, flavor, appearance.
Denmark's vision, as outlined in the plan, is not merely to increase domestic consumption of plant-based foods but to set a global example.
"The government’s aspiration is for Denmark’s innovative approach in the production and consumption of plant-based foods to inspire the rest of the world," the official statement read.
Key measures of the plan include:
- Equipping chefs in both public and private kitchens with the training to craft more plant-based dishes.
- Integrating a more prominent focus on plant-based diets in primary education, ensuring young Danes grow up with a comprehensive understanding of the benefits.
- Bolstering plant-based skills and knowledge throughout the educational system.
- Driving initiatives to elevate the exports of Danish plant-based food products via embassies.
- Amplifying investment in research and development pertaining to plant-based foods.
This groundbreaking initiative builds upon Denmark's previous commitment to this sector. Two years ago, an investment of 1 billion kroner (€168 million) was allocated to champion plant-based foods, a majority of which was directed towards the establishment of a new Fund for Plant-Based Foods. The overwhelming response to this fund, with 101 applications from diverse sectors, requesting funds that surpassed the allocated budget by three times, underlines the burgeoning potential and interest in this field among European researchers and entrepreneurs.
During the action plan's launch at the Hotel and Restaurant School in Copenhagen, Minister for Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, Jacob Jensen (V), expressed his enthusiasm.
"It is with immense pride that I present this action plan on behalf of the government. Transitioning to a more plant-centric diet aligns with the Official Dietary Guidelines and is pivotal for reducing our climate footprint," he stated. He also emphasized the potential of plant-based foods in enhancing Denmark's food exports and establishing the nation as a leader in this domain.
The action plan's formulation has been inclusive, with insights from approximately 30 stakeholders, encompassing written submissions and participation in group meetings. The definition of plant-based foods in the plan is comprehensive, encompassing all foods derived from plants and includes edible fungi, algae, and beneficial microorganisms.
The official statement cites recent studies as showing a rising demand for plant-based foods both domestically and globally. A projection from the University of Copenhagen estimates the sector for protein-rich plant-based foods to witness an annual growth rate of four to eleven per cent until 2030 in Denmark and in local markets.
This ambitious plan reaffirms Denmark's commitment to environmental sustainability, health, and innovative growth in the agricultural and food sectors. As the world grapples with climate change and its impact on food security, Denmark's pioneering efforts in promoting plant-based foods could serve as a beacon for other nations.
