EAT-Lancet 2.0 brings the science: We need more plant-rich diets, particularly in the Global North. But it also matters —for our health and the planet— how those plants in plant-based foods are grown! Many plantbased advocates now say “organic” loud and clear. The plant-based movement will not embrace organic animal husbandry. And the organic movement will not embrace the whole vegan agenda. But there are many opportunities for collaboration, and some substantial sweet spots in the market and in policy that our two movements can pursue together.
In Denmark, this alliance is already racking up political wins. After decades of work for plant-rich, organic meals in schools, hospitals and all public eateries, a major breakthrough came in 2021. The Danish Climate Strategy for Agriculture launched the Plant Food Grant (170 million EUR) where 50 percent of the fund must go to ORGANIC plant-based initiatives, from new crops and products to consumer awareness and supply chain development. The Climate Strategy also leveraged resources for a new Center for a Plant-based & Organic Future, a collaboration between Organic Denmark and Danish Vegetarian Society (DVF). Now, IFOAM Organics Europe and DVF collaborate on getting an EU Plant-based Action Plan, based on the Danish model with a strong organic pillar. And we support organic and plant-based organizations in collaboration on national policy in more EU member states. More about Danish Plant-Based Diplomacy at the BIOFACH session Organic as a pillar of Plant-based Policy & Market Growth (Hall 9) Weds. 11 Feb. 10-10:45am.
I experience the plant-based movement as natural allies. We share a deep dedication to health, climate and respect for animals as living, sensing beings. We share high ambitions (food systems change!) and a rebellious pragmatism. We see the value of individual action but know that political and market structures and power relationships must change.
Together, we can help processors combine organic and plant-based; and help retailers set concrete goals and actions for ORGANIC plant-based sales. Consumers want this! A study in Germany, France, Portugal and The Netherlands indicated strong preference for organic when going plant-based. A US study showed the same, and organic shares of plant-based alternatives are at 25 percent. In Denmark, 73 percent of plant-based milks are organic, compared to 40 percent for cow milk. Together we can set a sustainability agenda on both farms and plates!
Author: Paul Holmbeck, World Board Member IFOAM Organics International and fmr. Director, Organic Denmark
Published in the BIOFACH 2026 Bio Eco Actual Special Edition.
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