Why is the EU funding the marketing of red and processed meat when they have been scientifically classified as carcinogenic

Question for written answer E-003909/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Anja Hazekamp (The Left)

In 2021, the Commission presented a 'Beating Cancer Plan', aiming at 'undertaking a review of the promotion policy, with a view to enhancing its contribution to sustainable production and consumption, and in line with the shift to a more plant-based diet, with less red and processed meat and other foods linked to cancer risks and more fruit and vegetables'. It was refreshing to see the Commission take scientific health and dietary input formally into account, as also reflected in the Farm to Fork strategy.

However, after reviewing the latest campaigns approved, it is surprising to see that the Commission has continued to fund the marketing of red and processed meat.

• 1.Many of the applications submitted for meat products mention 'sustainability' in their application. What scientific methodology does the Consumers, Health, Agriculture and Food Executive Agency use to filter green-washing attempts by animal producers, in particular from intensive systems?
• 2.Why is the Commission still funding campaigns that aim to increase the consumption of carcinogenic food (bearing in mind that for cancer it is irrelevant whether or not the meat was 'sustainably' sourced)?
• 3.Will the new 'Buy European Food' campaign also continue to support the consumption of red and processed meat, or will it regard these items as red lines, given that they are carcinogenic?

Submitted: 6.10.2025