Portugal unveils National Strategy for Plant-Based Protein

The Portuguese government has pledged to create a national action plan centred on plants as part of its climate strategy,

The Government initiative has been welcomed by ProVeg Portugal who sees it as a meaningful step towards transforming the country’s food system.

Portugal’s Ministry of Environment and Energy has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability with the approval of the updated National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP 2030).

The revised plan introduces a ground-breaking initiative (see page 203 of the plan) to promote a “low-carbon diet,” focusing on reducing animal protein consumption, encouraging plant-based protein alternatives, and planning a national strategy for plant-based protein.

“This is a meaningful step towards transforming the country’s food system,” Joana Oliveira, director of ProVeg Portugal, said. “The Government now needs to establish clear funding sources, craft detailed implementation timelines, and define robust impact metrics,” Oliveira added.

Together with other Portuguese environmental organisations, ProVeg Portugal has been a vocal advocate for a national strategy on plant-based protein, working collaboratively to ensure its inclusion in the NECP.

The new Portugal NECP seeks to foster a diversified diet, focusing on reducing animal protein intake and increasing the consumption of plant-based protein.

Measures outlined include the creation of a national strategy for plant-based protein consumption, especially legumes, and the expansion of plant-based meal options in public canteens. Additionally, it highlights the need to reduce food waste and modify production practices.

ProVeg argues that a crucial next step is the planned creation of a detailed action plan for plant-based protein, promoting its production and research. Developing this sector can yield significant environmental, health, and economic benefits, as other countries in Europe have made progress in this area. Denmark launched an action plan for plant-based food last year.

Food consumption accounts for about 30% of Portugal’s ecological footprint, surpassing emissions from transportation. High meat consumption, including fish, is responsible for 49% of the country’s food-related ecological footprint, exerting pressure on local ecosystems.

The Portugal NECP’s push for reduced meat consumption and increased plant-based protein production is also essential for mitigating the agricultural sector’s environmental impact. Agriculture in Portugal is responsible for 12% of the country’s total greenhouse gas emissions, with significant contributions from animal farming and manure management. By prioritising plant-based diets, Portugal can reduce these emissions, according to ProVeg.

Portugal currently produces only 14% of the legumes it consumes, which presents an economic opportunity. These crops are cost-effective, durable, and versatile, providing a sustainable source of protein, serving as a base for the development of alternative protein products, and supporting agriculture adapted to climate change. Legumes play a key role in sustainable food production, as they help fix nitrogen in soils, reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers and promoting more resilient, low-impact agriculture.

In terms of health, legumes are rich in key nutrients such as protein, iron, fibre, folate, magnesium, and zinc. Their consumption is linked to lower risks of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and overall mortality.

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