News Meat consumption
'Consumers are not eager for meat tax'
Research by LTO Nederland shows that Dutch consumers are not interested in a meat tax. Only a small minority is in favor of the meat tax, which should encourage consumers to eat less meat.
LTO Nederland has called in the research agency Desk Research to find out whether Dutch consumers are interested in a tax on meat to encourage a reduction in meat consumption. A total of 1.500 Dutch people were questioned.
Proponents and meat lovers
The survey divides the respondents into 2 categories, the proponents of less meat consumption and the 'self-proclaimed meat lovers'. LTO does not disclose the distribution between these 2 groups.
36% of those in favor of less meat consumption are in favor of introducing a meat tax. Given the number of participants, this equates to 2 out of 10 Dutch people. The political color of the respondents influences the answer whether a reduction in meat consumption is desirable.
Differences
Information provided by the Nutrition Center is given a warmer welcome by the respondents than the meat tax. 62% of the respondents who think that less meat should be eaten, indicate that they see this as a better option. Almost half of the 'self-declared meat lovers' think that a higher price through a quality mark (such as organic or Beter Leven) is a better route.
Influence political color
All respondents were asked which political party they would vote for if there were elections. The answers show that PVV, Forum for Democracy and CDA voters find it the least important of all colors to reduce meat consumption. D66, ChristenUnie and GroenLinks voters find it especially important that less meat is eaten.
Sustainability and meat tax
According to LTO, the meat tax contributes nothing to sustainability in the sector. The levy does not benefit the livestock farmer, but the state treasury. Sustainability arises from a fair income for the farmer, as long as he does not receive this money, he cannot convert it into an investment to make it more sustainable, LTO argues. The farmer or grower should receive a premium to compensate for the extra effort for climate, nature, environment and animal welfare, according to the representative.
Jorine Cosse
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