FEDIOL, representing the EU vegetable oil and protein meal industry, underlines the key elements for a balanced and realistic plan on protein production in Europe.
In the framework of the stakeholder consultation on a Protein Plan for Europe launched by DG AGRI, FEDIOL issued a
position paper (18ENV047) stressing the need for consistency between existing EU policy proposals which directly or indirectly affect protein supplies.
In particular, the proposal to phase out conventional biofuels, which trigger the production of essential protein-rich meal volumes, the absence of alternative strategy to the delisting or reviewing of Plant Protection Products, which are necessary for adequate plant growth, or the lack of further research and development, would put at risk the success of a Protein Plan. Indeed, vital yield improvements are required in order to enhance attractiveness for EU farmers in taking a revenue risk and avoid facing more limited earnings as compared to other more mainstream productions.
At the same time, it would be misleading to consider that all proteins have the same value and that locally produced proteins have the potential in any circumstances to replace all imported proteins. We must not only recognize Europe’s strong deficit in protein-rich crops and feed material, but also acknowledge that even with considerably enhanced domestic production, we will still need imports, including of soybeans. Hence, in the context of on-going discussions about reducing the impact of our sourcing on deforestation, the considerable efforts undertaken by European stakeholders to supply from sustainable sources must be continued.
For further information, please contact Nathalie Lecocq, Director General, at tel: +32 2 771 53 30
FEDIOL, the EU vegetable oil and proteinmeal industry association, represents the interests of the European oilseed crushers, vegetable oil refiners and bottlers. FEDIOL members are 12 national associations and associated company members in 5 other EU countries. With about 180 facilities in Europe, the sector provides 20,000 direct employments. Its members process approximately 55 million tonnes of raw materials a year, both of EU origin and imported from third country markets. The sector crushes oilseeds, notably rapeseed, sunflower seed, soybeans and linseed into oils and meals and refines those crude oils from crushing and crude tropical oils, notably palm oil, palm kernel oil and coconut oil. The meals and the crude and refined oils are sold for food, feed, technical and energy uses essentially on the European market.
