Animal Protein: A Key Element for Nutritional Balance and Health in Europe

Event Description

Animal-based proteins have long been fundamental to human nutrition, supplying high-quality amino acids, vitamin B12, iron, and essential fatty acids—nutrients crucial for maintaining muscle mass, supporting brain health, and promoting overall wellbeing. This is particularly important for groups such as children and older adults, who may have difficulty meeting their nutritional needs otherwise. 

Simplistic narratives that portray animal protein as harmful can lead to misconceptions about its role in human nutrition. Meanwhile, advances in alternative protein sources are enriching dietary diversity and helping foster healthier, more sustainable outcomes. This event will examine how animal proteins fit into a modern, inclusive vision of sustainability and nutrition. 

A balanced perspective is needed—one that acknowledges the complementary roles of both animal and plant proteins in sustainable diets. 

The event will also highlight the progress made by the livestock sector in improving environmental performance and animal welfare, while examining how these developments intersect with public health, cultural practices and consumer preferences. Rather than viewing other protein sources in opposition, the discussion will emphasise their complementary roles. By moving beyond polarised narratives, the event aims to support an informed and constructive dialogue on the future of protein in Europe, with a focus on the role of animal proteins. It will also address the types of policy support needed to promote varied, balanced and sustainable diets for all EU citizens—including the continued role of animal proteins as an essential component. 

Agenda

Moderator: Anton van den Brink, Deputy Secretary General, FEFAC 

Draft Agenda 

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 will highlight recent innovations in sustainable livestock farming, animal welfare advancements, and how animal protein can align with environmental and climate goals. 

• Brigitte MISONNE, Acting Director “Markets”, European Commission, DG AGRI 

• Prof. dr. Arjan STEGEMAN, Professor Farm Animal Health, Utrecht University 

• Elisabetta QUAINI, President of Frisitaly, Member of Confagricoltura CEO Barbiselle 

• Dr. Ward MOSMULLER, Director NBD Bovaer, dsm-firmenich 

• Inês GRENHO AJUDA, Programme Leader for Farm Animal Welfare, Eurogroup for Animals 

• 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 About It? 

Focusing on the nutritional value of animal proteins, including essential nutrients, dietary needs for different age groups, and risks associated with protein deficiency. A balanced perspective is needed – one that acknowledges the complementary roles of both animal and plant proteins in sustainable diets. 

• 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. Sara ERASMUS, Assistant Professor in Meat Science, Wageningen University & Research 

• Dr. Sander BIESBROEK, Assistant Professor Healthy and Sustainable Diets, Wageningen University & Research 

Q&A Session 

16h20 - 16h30 Closing remarks by MEPs Christine Singer and Stefan Köhler 

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