The French Government has published a decree that prevents plant-based companies from using specific meat-like terms in their labeling after much back and forth.

The decree consists of two separate lists that outline the specific prohibitions, which include a ban on using animal-derived terms like steak and spare ribs for marketing purposes. Violations could lead to a maximum fine of EUR 1,500 (~USD 1,625) for individuals and EUR 7,500 (~USD 8,125) for corporations.

Companies will receive a grace period of three months to adjust their product labeling, while products that are legally manufactured or marketed in other EU nations or a third country will be exempt from this ban.

Analyst QuickTake: This decree was resubmitted in September 2023, following its suspension after several plant-based companies lodged an urgent application for interim relief. Further, this publication comes after the French Supreme Court ruled in favor of Nutrition & Santé Group due to a lack of evidence to support the allegations of consumer confusion in January this year, which is also the key argument in this decree.