PBFA Members Take Plant-Based Message to Capitol Hill

Written by: Sara McGoun

Last week, the Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA) led a focused advocacy effort in Washington, D.C., bringing together PBFA members, including The Herbivorous Butcher, Meelunie, and Fabalish, for two days of critical conversations with congressional staffers.

Our small but mighty delegation met with both freshmen and longstanding congressional offices to share PBFA's policy priorities and to oppose any legislation in the 119th Congress that would hamper the growing plant-based foods industry. The timing of these meetings was important, as a number of bills threatening our industry will likely be introduced soon.

PBFA’s 2025 policy agenda aims to:

1. Foster a thriving U.S.-based plant-based foods industry that creates, grows, and meets market demand.
2. Advocate for federal policies and guidelines that recognize the nutritional benefits of plant-based foods and diets.
3. Ensure that plant-based products can be clearly and accurately labeled and that plant-based food companies do not face anti-competitive labeling restrictions.
4. Leverage existing programs to help increase production and expand markets for U.S. plant-based food crops.
5. Advance new legislation and regulatory reforms to increase economic opportunities and U.S. competitiveness in the rapidly expanding global market for plant-based foods.

One of the highlights of our Hill visit was a retro-diner-themed reception co-hosted with Food Solutions Action, which drew an impressive crowd of about 175 Hill staffers. The event provided an excellent opportunity to showcase delicious products from PBFA members while fostering meaningful conversations about the future of food in a relaxed setting. Attendees got to experience firsthand the quality, taste, and variety that today's plant-based foods offer.

"These face-to-face meetings are invaluable for helping congressional offices understand both the challenges and opportunities in the plant-based sector," said Marjorie Mulhall, PBFA’s Senior Director of Policy. "We're encouraged by the engaging discussions and genuine interest shown by key congressional offices in helping support our member companies and our overall industry."

We extend our sincere thanks to all the congressional offices who took the time to meet with us and to our member companies that participated in this important advocacy effort. Together, we're working to ensure that the plant-based foods industry can continue to thrive and meet the growing consumer demand for sustainable, healthy food options.