Cow's milk will be replaced with oat milk.
Helsinki is significantly reducing the number of meat dishes in schools and kindergartens. The city council has approved a goal to halve the use of meat and dairy products in the capital's food services by 2030.
In practice, this means that meat dishes will be served in schools once a week, and in kindergartens – 1–2 times a week on an alternating schedule. Dairy products in cooking will be replaced with oat alternatives. Oat milk will be offered as an alternative to cow's milk to all children.
The initiative is led by Left Alliance MP Mai Kivela, but her proposal has received support from deputies of various parties. The initiative was voted for by 57, against – 23. Four abstained, and one was absent.
The environmental organization Greenpeace called the decision a significant step towards sustainable nutrition.
– Helsinki sets an example for the whole country. The transition to healthier nutrition is possible. It is better for the climate, health, animals, and the city budget, – stated Greenpeace expert Olli Tiainen in a press release.
Significant changes towards a plant-based diet have already occurred in Helsinki's food system. The educational sector's menu now offers 50 percent fewer dishes containing red meat than in 2019.
The new decision is based on both environmental and medical goals.
In 2021, a study by the University of Helsinki showed that Finnish children eat too much meat. At the same time, their diet lacks sufficient legumes.
In the latest national dietary recommendations, processed meat has been recognized as a carcinogen. It is advised to avoid it or minimize its consumption. The consumption of hot dishes with red meat is recommended to be reduced to twice a week.
The city strategy of Helsinki states that the city is also working on reducing indirect emissions and minimizing environmental impact in procurement. The food service plays a significant role in this, as more than 100,000 portions are served daily in the city's food system.
The transition to a diet containing more plant-based food in the capital is planned to be as smooth as possible. The key method is called "hybrid" dishes, in which meat is gradually replaced with plant protein.
City authorities emphasize that the taste quality of food and nutritional factors are priorities in implementing changes.
According to Greenpeace, similar initiatives have been proposed in 40 municipalities across the country. For example, in Espoo, the city council decided last December to explore the possibility of halving the use of animal products in municipal food services by 2030.
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