Plant-Powered Revolution: How Meat-Loving Danes Embraced a World-First Plant-Based Lifestyle

Denmark has made a surprising shift in its food policy. Jacob Jensen, a farming minister from the Liberal party, announced an action plan to promote plant-based foods. Denmark may be known for its meat production, but this plan reveals a growing commitment to sustainability.

During the launch in October 2023, Jensen emphasized the need for people to eat more plants to help the environment. Backed by a €170 million fund, the initiative covers everything from producing tempeh to introducing innovative vegan dishes in restaurants. It even includes a new vegan chef degree!

Experts warn that animal farming contributes significantly to climate change, with estimates showing it produces 12% to 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing meat and dairy consumption is crucial in wealthier nations to address this crisis. However, many countries have faced backlash and protests when trying to cut down on animal farming.

So, how did Denmark’s plant-focused plan gain support? Food culture is deeply rooted in personal identity, making significant changes challenging. Rune-Christoffer Dragsdahl, from the Vegetarian Society of Denmark, highlighted the importance of a positive approach. Rather than telling people to eat less meat, the plan emphasizes what people can gain by choosing more plant-based options.

Building trust among farmers was essential. The Vegetarian Society organized friendly events to bring food producers together. This led to collaboration with the Danish Agriculture and Food Council (DAFC) to develop the plant-based strategy. Anders Martin Klöcker, of DAFC, noted that it was a unique alliance, but not without challenges.

The shift was controversial. For many years, Danish agriculture has been centered around animal products, making the move towards plant-based eating difficult for some to accept. To make progress, the action plan included support for both plant-based and traditional animal farming, fostering a more inclusive conversation.

A key figure in this conversation was Zenia Stampe, an agriculture spokesperson for the Social Liberal party. She realized that agriculture contributed significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and understood the need for a shift. The Vegetarian Society framed plant-based eating as a business opportunity, rather than a threat, which helped build consensus.

The plan avoided polarizing terms like “vegan” and didn’t set strict targets for reducing meat consumption. Instead, it focused on creating new educational opportunities and grants. For example, the popular new vegan chef program has attracted students eager to develop tasty plant-based dishes.

Many grants support improving plant-based products—making them tastier and more appealing. Klöcker believes product development is essential for establishing a market. Currently, Danish food products mainly export, reflecting a growing global interest in plant-based options.

The Danish government has recently committed to a broader green farming deal, aiming for an EU-wide action plan for plant-based foods. Denmark’s leadership in environmental initiatives, like wind energy and eliminating trans fats, positions it well for this new endeavor.

Despite the progress, challenges remain. The plan’s impact on diets is yet to be seen, but there’s hope for transformation. Dragsdahl believes this initiative could reduce reliance on intensive livestock farming over time.

Stampe is cautiously optimistic but recognizes the complexities. While some people may resist reducing meat intake, there’s a clear shift among younger generations toward more plant-based diets.

Klöcker, however, is practical. Transitioning to plant-based eating will take time and thoughtful market development, similar to how organic food became popular in Denmark. Dragsdahl remains hopeful, noting a majority of Danes are open to eating less meat, as long as changes are introduced gently.