Plant-based foods. Credit: Pixabay, UltraWorldJY
Portugal is introducing a national strategy promoting plant-based foods.
The initiative is part of Portugal’s updated National Energy and Climate Plan which aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the agricultural sector and encourage healthier eating habits.
The plan supports a shift towards a “low-carbon diet” by decreasing the consumption of meat and animal proteins and increasing plant-based food options. Joana Oliveira, director of ProVeg Portugal, described the move as “very bold,” (cited by Euractiv) given the country’s deeply rooted meat-centric cuisine with a love of bacalhau.
Portugal’s centre-right government, led by the People’s Party and aligned with the European People’s Party (EPP), has traditionally been resistant to policies discouraging meat consumption. However, this initiative marks a significant departure from the EPP’s usual stance, particularly in light of recent farmer protests that pressured the EU Commission to abandon its sustainable diets framework.
Meat and cultural identity in the Iberian Peninsula
Portugal’s shift towards a more plant-based diet contrasts sharply with neighbouring Spain, where meat remains a strong part of national and regional identity. In 2021, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez dismissed concerns about high meat consumption’s environmental impact, declaring, “For me, a perfectly cooked medium-rare chuletón is unbeatable.”
While Spain has acknowledged rising consumer interest in meat alternatives, the government has taken a cautious approach. The country even imposed legal restrictions on using terms such as “burger” or “sausage” for plant-based products as early as 2014.
Portuguese farmers
According to data by Indexbox, in 2024, the Portuguese beef market experienced a 3.5 per cent growth. This marks the fourth consecutive year of growth after a period of decline. Similarly, the pork market expanded by 4.9 per cent in 2024. These figures highlight the robust demand for meat products in Portugal.
Portugal’s approach to dietary change is being framed as an opportunity rather than a restriction. The government plans to support the production of legume crops, such as chickpeas and lentils, to reduce reliance on imported protein sources.
Apparently Portugal currently produces only 14 per cent of the legumes it consumes. “This presents a clear opportunity for farmers to expand production,” Oliveira said.
However, not all farmers are on board. The Confederation of Portuguese Farmers supports boosting plant-protein production but opposes any shift that comes “to the detriment” of animal proteins.
Calls are now growing for an update to Portugal’s 20-year-old national dietary guidelines to include products such as tofu and plant-based drinks.
What are your thoughts on the push for more plant-based and vegan eating? Let us know in the comments below.
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