Regulatory Barriers and Incentives for Alternative Proteins in the European Union and Australia-New Zealand

Title data

Monaco, Alessandro:
Regulatory Barriers and Incentives for Alternative Proteins in the European Union and Australia-New Zealand.
In: British Food Journal. Vol. 127 (2025) .
ISSN 1758-4108

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Abstract in another language

Purpose: This paper aims to discuss the innovation challenge in the alternative protein sectors of the European Union (EU) and Australia-New Zealand (AUSNZ) by comparing their respective novel food frameworks. The study investigates which regulatory provisions stakeholders perceive as barriers to innovation and proposes measures to address these obstacles.

Research Design and Methodology: Alternative proteins are often legally classified as “novel foods” in both the EU and AUSNZ. A functional comparative legal analysis of the novel food frameworks of these two jurisdictions was conducted. Qualitative interviews with stakeholders active in the EU or AUSNZ alternative protein sectors complemented the legal analysis. The interviews aimed at gathering stakeholder perspectives on the framework within which they operate and discuss ways to foster innovation in their jurisdictions.

Findings: While the AUSNZ framework is generally perceived as more innovation-friendly, particularly regarding breakthrough innovations like cultivated meat, the EU is viewed as a challenging regulatory environment. The duration of the authorisation procedure, differing levels of communication and opportunities for dialogue between stakeholders and regulators, along with the political stances of EU member states, emerged as the main elements to explain such differences. In both jurisdictions, a lack of support for small-scale companies was identified as a key factor hindering the innovation process.

Originality/Value: This study provides the first in-depth comparative analysis of the novel food frameworks in the EU and AUSNZ and explores stakeholder perceptions of their respective frameworks. Through this comparison, the study offers suggestions for enhancing both frameworks ability to incentivize innovation in their alternative protein sectors.