Major food companies call on EU to accelerate transition to sustainable agriculture

EU – Leading food companies, including Unilever, Danone, Oatly, and McCain, have urged the newly elected European Commission (EC) to develop a comprehensive vision for agriculture and food to accelerate Europe’s transition to sustainable farming and consumption practices. 

In a letter addressed to Christophe Hansen, the new European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, the companies emphasized the need for immediate action to ensure the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of Europe’s farming and food sectors.  

Hansen, who assumed his position just over a week ago, has been tasked by EC President Ursula von der Leyen to draft a “vision for agriculture and food” within his first 100 days. 

Von der Leyen highlighted the importance of balancing competitiveness with sustainability, addressing critical issues such as food waste, biodiversity, and the adoption of innovative technologies and emerging products in the agri-food sector. 

The food companies outlined several key measures they believe are essential for achieving these goals.  

Among the companies’ demands is for the EC to increase environmental payments in the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP). They have also called for the establishment of mandatory sustainability criteria for public procurement. 

Additionally, they have also called for the establishment of mandatory sustainability criteria for public procurement, encouraging citizens to adopt healthier and more sustainable diets. 

“We, the undersigned companies, believe the EU must actively change the way we produce and consume food to ensure that nature, consumers, and the farming and food industries can thrive,” the letter stated.  

It further emphasized the urgency of addressing the triple crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, which threaten long-term food security and agricultural productivity. 

The companies also called for benchmarking sustainability in agriculture by setting common definitions and criteria for on-farm practices.  

They argued that these benchmarks would provide clarity for farmers, manufacturers, and retailers, fostering investment in sustainable solutions. 

Additionally, the letter urged Hansen to establish clear objectives that create food environments promoting affordable and sustainable choices for consumers across the EU. 

The letter concluded with a call for the EU to lead globally by placing sustainability at the core of its agricultural and food policies, helping to create a fairer, more resilient, and healthier food supply chain. 

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