Eight years ago, the European Parliament banned the use of words reserved exclusively for dairy products in the names of plant products. In Estonian stores, oat milk has already turned into an oat drink, but now coconut milk and peanut butter will need to be renamed.

The European Parliament banned the use of milk-related definitions in advertising of plant products back in 2013. This means that names such as "milk", "cheese", "cream", "yogurt" and the like can only be used to describe products of animal origin.

The Ministry of Rural Affairs has applied for an exemption for Estonia so that the names "coconut milk" and "peanut butter" can continue to be used. However, negotiations with the European Commission will not bring results, and now the products will need to be renamed.

Previously, many products have already been renamed. Now you can find oat, almond and soy drinks in stores instead of milk. Vegetable cheeses have replaced, for example, spreads for pizza or sandwiches.

The new names should not also refer to the fact that this is an alternative to dairy products. That is, there should be no such names as "cheese product" or "vegan alternative to cheese" either.

Such names may not be used either in product labeling or in advertising in information sheets or in the media.

Early next year, the Department of Agriculture and Food will begin to monitor more closely for possible violations. The number of misconduct cases has not increased recently, but the department estimates that there are still products in stores that contradict the requirements.

In addition to manufacturers and stores, the requirements also apply to cafes and restaurants that offer, for example, oat milk for coffee.

ERR