Wine & meat vs. the EU
"On the forthcoming date of October 25th, an integral discussion is scheduled in Brussels regarding the European Union's proposed program for the promotion of its agricultural products. It is worth noting that this program has raised concerns, particularly in its potential discriminatory impact on both red meats and alcoholic beverages.
The Italian agricultural community is pre-emptively engaging with this forthcoming discussion, which is slated to occur in Brussels on October 25th. This discussion pertains to the European Union's annual work program for 2024 within the context of its agricultural product promotion policy. Of particular concern is the reemergence, in the Commission's proposal, of verbiage that appears to differentiate against red and processed meats, as well as alcoholic beverages. This recurrent issue is manifested in the project evaluation criteria embedded in the draft program, where the proposal for the domestic market encourages alignment with the European Plan to Combat Cancer. This entails, notably, advocating for a dietary shift towards greater vegetable consumption while diminishing the consumption of red and processed meats, as well as other dietary items linked to health risks, including alcoholic beverages.
Prominent agricultural associations, such as Coldiretti and Filiera Italia, have expressed apprehension, deeming this a 'perilous divergence' within the European Union's laudable commitment to safeguarding public health. They are of the conviction that such a commitment should not inadvertently precipitate simplistic decisions that could unjustly vilify individual products, irrespective of the quantities consumed. Coldiretti and Filiera Italia underscore the necessity of seeking nutritional equilibrium within the spectrum of foods integrated into daily dietary habits, instead of reproving specific products. This position is notably incongruent with the European Union's support of the Mediterranean Diet, renowned as a healthy and wholesome dietary model, promoting the prevention of various ailments, including cancer. This dietary model is rooted in the balanced consumption of all foods, commencing with the customary glass of wine accompanying meals. Imposing constraints on promotional activities, Coldiretti and Filiera argue, poses a substantial risk to products with centuries-long traditions and poses a severe threat to the biodiversity of the regions. This stands to affect typical regional products and, perhaps most significantly, the livelihoods of families committed to the intergenerational struggle against depopulation and degradation. Italy, renowned for its wealth of small-scale, traditional specialties, relies on promotional support to facilitate market visibility. Without this essential support, these cherished traditions may be at risk of fading into obscurity.
Cia President Cristiano Fini underscores the importance of an inclusive approach within EU promotion policy, advocating equitable and proportionate support for all segments of the agri-food industry. This calls for the rejection of discriminatory measures that may cast a pall over certain products, disregarding the nuances of consumption levels and habits. In a formal communication directed to Minister Lollobrigida, President Fini cautions that such an approach may directly penalize these segments, effectively excluding them from the budgetary allocation within funded promotion programs. In view of the impending October 25th meeting, President Fini respectfully urges the Minister to give due consideration to the points articulated herein and the potential consequences of creating imbalances within the sector. Moreover, these actions could place significant strain on specific components of the agri-food industry, including red and processed meats and iconic alcoholic beverages such as wine, which are emblematic of excellence, quality, and tradition within the 'Made in Italy' agri-food sector."
