Monday, 25 April, 2022
Seven international plant-based food associations have joined forces in a working group with a mission to support the development of the sector as it surges in popularity around the world.
Formed just months before the United Nations Climate Change conference COP26, The International Plant Based Foods Working Group (IPBFWG) is made up of like-minded associations, including the Plant Based Food Alliance UK - of which The Vegan Society is a founding member. The IPBFWG will represent companies and other organisations involved in producing plant-based foods in their respective countries and regions.
The working group members will align and coordinate on high level strategy and initiatives, with the goal of advancing the plant-based food sector around the world. Our current food system is widely acknowledged as one of the contributors to many of the most pressing issues facing a global population. Plant-based foods can be part of the solution to issues that are top of mind for many consumers, companies and governments and offer real advantages when it comes to water use, land use and carbon emissions. Despite its diverse global footprint, the IPBFWG is united in its efforts to bring about a more healthy, sustainable, and humane food system.
The IPBFWG aims to:
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Support the growth of the plant-based foods movement worldwide;
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Promote the creation of a level playing field for plant-based foods;
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Foster communication, share expertise to help support the growth of the industry; and
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Promote international standards, terminology, and certifications to aide in commerce and consumer acceptance of plant-based foods.
Currently, IPBFWG’s executive leadership is composed of the following organizations:
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Plant-Based Food Alliance UK
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PBFC – Plant-Based Foods Canada
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PBFA – Plant Based Foods Association (US)
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EAPF – European Alliance for Plant Based Foods
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ENSA – European Plant-based Foods Association
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China Plant Based Foods Association
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Plant Based Foods Industry Association (India)
Beyond its seven launch partners, the IPBFWG will be expanding its membership around the world, with more organizations expected to join.
Marisa Heath, CEO of the Plant-based Food Alliance UK, stated: “The Plant-based Food Alliance UK is delighted to be part of this hugely important working group which demonstrates that the international plant-sector is coming together and collaborating to enhance its influence and effectiveness in changing food systems.”
“We can all learn lessons from each other as well as share resources and that will help us further the plant-based movement within the UK. Plant-based diets are a key solution to climate change as stated within the recent IPCC report and joining up the plant-based sector means we can push the agenda through global forums and work to get real change.”
