Producers of plant-based products: at the crossroads of 2 major opportunities

The French “Conseil d’Etat” recently annulled two decrees banning the use of butchery terms for plant-based protein products, marking a victory for plant-based alternatives suppliers. Companies and professional associations expressed relief at this decision, denouncing the injustice of the ban that targeted only French producers.

On January 20, Carrefour unveiled its goal to double its revenue from “free-from” products (gluten, nitrites, lactose, alcohol) within three years. It aims to reach one billion euros by 2030 and plans to offer the widest range of “free-from” products. The retailer will rely on a coalition of dairy (Candia), grocery (Nutrition & Santé, Gerblé), charcuterie (Herta, Fleury Michon, Groupe Aoste, and Cooperl/Madrange), and wine and beer (Brasseries Kronenbourg, Cordier Bonne Nouvelle, and its own subsidiary Maison Johanès Boubée) manufacturers to develop sales of “free-from” products. Carrefour is also committed to a plan to develop plant-based alternatives in its aisles by 2026.

Why this is good news?

The Council of State’s decision is good news for Carrefour as it allows the continued use of butchery terms for plant-based protein products. This facilitates the marketing and understanding of products by consumers, which aligns with Carrefour’s goal of developing plant-based alternatives in its aisles. By annulling the decrees, the Council of State indirectly supports Carrefour’s initiatives to offer a wide range of plant-based and “free-from” products, meeting the growing consumer demand for healthier and more diverse food options. This decision also represents a great opportunity for all plant-based product manufacturers, allowing them to better market their products and reach a wider audience.

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