According to FoodBev, citing research by Foodrise, the EU dairy sector received approximately €16 billion in payments under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in 2020 — around 500 times more than was allocated to nuts and seeds production (€29 million).
The published data indicate that meat and dairy production together received three times more CAP subsidies than plant-based products. In total, livestock sectors accounted for approximately 77% of all farmer payments in 2020 — €39 billion out of a €51 billion overall support budget.
Specifically, the beef and sheep meat sector received around €8 billion, which is 580 times more than the €14 million allocated to legumes. The report CAP at the Crossroads also states that meat and dairy obtained more than ten times the subsidies granted to fruit and vegetables, and over sixteen times more than cereals.
The authors of the study emphasize that animal-based products account for 81–86% of greenhouse gas emissions within the EU food lifecycle, while providing roughly 32% of calories and 64% of dietary protein consumed.
The data release comes ahead of negotiations on the new CAP financial framework for 2028–2034. Within the Strategic Dialogue on the future of EU agricultural policy, discussions are ongoing regarding potential adjustments to subsidy allocation, taking into account climate objectives and evolving market trends — including the growth of plant-based product segments.
Source: FoodBev
