Switzerland: Animal names for plant-based meat alternatives will no longer be permitted

The Federal Supreme Court has ruled that animal names such as “Poulet”, “Schwein” or “Pollo” [“chicken”, “pork” or “pollo”] may no longer be used to label plant-based meat substitutes. This restriction applies even when the packaging clearly indicates that the products are plant-based alternatives. According to the court, the ruling aims to protect consumers from misleading or confusing information. It deemed irrelevant that some consumers might recognise, upon closer inspection, that the products are plant-based versions of meat. However, generic terms such as “Steak”, “Filet”, “Schnitzel” or “Geschnetzeltes” [“steak”, “fillet”, “schnitzel” or “sliced meat”] will remain permitted. Exceptions also apply to long-established fantasy names like “Gummibären” or “Osterhasen” [“gummy bears” or “Easter bunnies”], which are considered part of common language and are not likely to be mistaken for real animal products.