// Lidl to reduce animal-based products in store
// Vegan alternatives are expected to slowly replace animal-based products
Lidl is looking to cut back on its animal-based products as it focuses on sustainability.
The German discounter said vegan alternatives are expected to slowly replace animal-based products.
This is in line with Lidl’s commitment to increase its plant-based range through 2025 and beyond.
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The initiative comes as Lidl identifies the need for food security for the increasing global population.
Lidl chief buyer Christoph Graf said there is “no alternative” to reducing meat options in Lidl as there is “no second planet”.
He said this will allow people more access to cost-effective alternative proteins.
Since launching two years ago, Lidl’s own-brand plant-based range Vemendo has extended to over 50 private label products.
The grocer plans on releasing a sustainability report later this year. The report will focus on the key differences between animal and plant-based foods.
Lidl corporate engagement director, Stephanie Jaczniakowska-McGirr said: “Lidl has taken a bold and necessary step to help consumers transition to a more plant-based diet. Animal agriculture is responsible for 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions and shifting to plant-based diets is an effective way to reduce those emissions.
“We urge other retailers to follow in the footsteps of Lidl and actively increase their plant-based offerings to support the growing number of people following flexitarian, vegetarian and vegan diets.”
