EP - Animal Protein: A Key Element for Nutritional Balance and Health in Europe
Animal Protein: A Key Element for Nutritional Balance and Health in Europe
23 September 2025
ASP 5G1
(14h30-16h30 CET)
Animal-based proteins provide high-quality amino acids, vitamin B12, iron, and essential fatty acids—nutrients critical for maintaining muscle mass, supporting brain function, and promoting overall wellbeing. These nutrients are particularly important for groups such as children and older adults, who may otherwise struggle to meet their nutritional requirements.
Simplistic narratives portraying animal protein as harmful can mislead public understanding of its nutritional role. Concurrently, innovations in alternative protein sources are expanding dietary diversity and supporting healthier, sustainable outcomes. This event examines the role of animal proteins in a modern, inclusive vision of sustainability and nutrition.
A balanced perspective is required—recognizing the complementary contributions of both animal and plant proteins in sustainable diets.
The event will also present advancements in the livestock sector concerning environmental performance and animal welfare, exploring intersections with public health, cultural practices, and consumer preferences.
By moving beyond polarized narratives, the discussion aims to foster an informed and constructive dialogue on the future of protein in Europe, emphasizing the essential role of animal proteins and the policy measures necessary to support balanced, sustainable diets for all EU citizens.
Draft Agenda
Moderator: Anton van den Brink, Deputy Secretary General, FEFAC
14h30 - 14h40 Opening Remarks by MEPs Christine Singer and Stefan Köhler
14h40 - 15h40 Panel I: Towards Sustainability – The Future of Animal Farming and Europe's Cultural Landscapes
This panel highlights recent innovations in sustainable livestock farming, animal welfare advancements, and how animal protein aligns with environmental and climate goals.
- Brigitte MISONNE, Acting Director "Markets", European Commission, DG AGRI
- Prof. Dr. Arjan Stegeman, Professor Farm Animal Health, Utrecht University
- Name TBC – Innovation and sustainability in livestock production
- Dr. Ward MOSMULLER, Director NBD Bovaer, dsm-firmenich
- Els BRUGGEMAN, Head Policy, Enforcement and Communication, Euroconsumers
Q&A Session
15h40 - 16h20 Panel II: Animal Protein in Human Nutrition – What Does the Science Say?
This panel focuses on the nutritional value of animal proteins, essential nutrients, dietary requirements for different age groups, and risks associated with protein deficiency. It emphasizes the complementary roles of animal and plant proteins in sustainable diets.
- Alexandra NIKOLAKOPOULOU, HoU General Food Law, Food Waste and Food Information to Consumers (SANTE.E.1), DG SANTE, European Commission (TBC)
- Dr. Nikolaus KRIZ, Executive Director EFSA (TBC)
- Dr. Andrea FUß, Nutrition Scientist, Deputy Secretary General of the Bavarian Farmers' Association – The importance of animal protein for human nutrition
- Prof. Alice V. STANTON, Professor, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
- Dr. Prisco PISCITELLI MD PhD, European Medical Association – Protein quality and bioavailability in public health (TBC)
Q&A Session
16h20 - 16h30 Closing Remarks by MEPs Christine Singer and Stefan Köhler