Joachim Rukwied, president of the German Farmers Association (DBV) reckons the trend towards plant-based eating could present an opportunity for German farmers rather than a threat – a historic development that is being applauded by NGOs after years of heated debate. “After all, it’s us, the farmers, who produce the ingredients for the plant-based alternatives,” stated Joachim in Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung. Newly appointed environmental minister Steffi Lemke from the Green party applauded Rukwieds words and is happy about the DBV’s new openness towards the topic of plant-based foods. “Joachim Rukwied’s positive comments towards producing more plant-based crops is an important signal that farmers are ready to move towards more sustainable practices,” commented Stephanie Jaczniakowska-McGirr, Head of Food Industry and Retail of food awareness organisation ProVeg International. “This is a great step forward. For decades farmers have done the hard work providing Europe with the necessary foods. They should be recognised and supported as an important pillar of a secure food system and an integral part of the European Green Deal.”
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Notes to editors
For more information contact:
Lara Pappers,
Director of Communications at ProVeg International
ProVeg International ProVeg is an international food awareness organisation working to transform the global food system by replacing conventional animal-based products with plant-based and cultured alternatives. ProVeg works with international decision-making bodies, governments, food producers, investors, the media, and the general public to help the world transition to a society and economy that are less dependent on animal agriculture and more sustainable for humans, animals, and the planet. ProVeg has permanent-observer status with the UNFCCC, is accredited for UNEA, and has received the United Nations’ Momentum for Change Award. www.proveg.com ProVeg International is working alongside the European Alliance for Plant-Based Foods to give farmers a voice, and aid them in achieving a just, inclusive, and economically beneficial plant-based agricultural transition.
