Lower Saxony urges zero VAT on legumes to boost climate-friendly diets

The Consumer Advice Center of Lower Saxony is pushing for changes to make legumes and plant-based foods more affordable. They want the VAT on unprocessed fruits, vegetables, and legumes cut from 7% to 0%. At the same time, the group argues that plant-based milk and meat alternatives should be taxed the same as animal products.

For years, the centre has promoted legumes as a healthy, climate-friendly alternative to meat and dairy. Their campaigns include practical tips, recipes, and even projects to introduce pulses into childcare menus.

Legumes offer high protein content, often surpassing animal sources. A serving of lentils, for example, contains more protein than lean beef. They also provide fibre, which supports digestion, and have a far smaller carbon footprint than meat or dairy.

To get the most from legumes, the centre recommends pairing them with other foods to ensure a full range of essential amino acids. Simple preparation steps, like soaking beans before cooking, can reduce digestive discomfort and shorten cooking time. Cooking them for at least 15 minutes at 100°C is also crucial to break down phasin, a natural toxin found in raw pulses. Adding spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, or cumin can improve both flavour and digestion.

The centre has spent five years raising awareness through initiatives like 'Hülsenfrüchte in der Kindertagespflege' (Legumes in Childcare). This project provided childcare providers with recipes, meal plans, and guidance on incorporating pulses into children's diets. Articles and public campaigns have repeatedly called for lower taxes on these foods to encourage wider consumption.

Beyond affordability, the group insists on fairer taxation across all plant-based alternatives. Currently, animal-based milk and meat often face lower VAT rates than their plant-based equivalents. The centre argues this imbalance should end to reflect the environmental and health benefits of pulses and other plant foods.

The proposed VAT reduction aims to make legumes, fruits, and vegetables more accessible to consumers. If adopted, the change could lower costs for shoppers while supporting climate-friendly eating habits. The centre's long-standing campaigns highlight the nutritional and environmental advantages of pulses—now they want tax policy to match.