Discount Shopping Test: Alarming Conditions in Processed Meat Products

Only 10 percent of the meat products carry animal welfare improved quality seals. 60 percent of the products do not have any quality seal at all. This confirms that the majority of the range only meets the absolute minimum standards.

Results: Lack of Quality Seals and Problematic Origin Labelling

1. Lack of Quality Seals: Three out of five products do not carry any quality seal at all.

2. Misleading Origin Information: The shelves contain pseudo labels that suggest an Austrian origin, but in reality do not guarantee animal-friendly standards.

3. Imported Cheap Meat: Several discounters offer foreign meat, which can lead to price dumping and more difficult control possibilities.

"Austrian discounters seem to be engaging in a race to the bottom with processed meat," criticises Esther Kronthaler, animal welfare political representative of Animal Protection Austria.

Demands from Animal Protection Austria

1. Mandatory Animal Welfare Labelling: Consumers must be clearly and understandably informed about the conditions under which the animals were kept.

2. Delisting of Lower Welfare Levels: Products with the worst standards should voluntarily be removed from the shelves.

3. Promotion of Plant-Based Alternatives: Plant-based products should be significantly cheaper than animal products all year round to promote a sustainable change in consumer behaviour.

"It's high time to question the system of cheap meat production. A clear focus on plant-based agriculture and sustainability is the key to a viable future agriculture," says Esther Kronthaler.

(Red)

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