‘Embarrassing’: Denmark forced to U-turn on meat ban for state canteens

The initiative had been part of the government's aim to achieve a 70% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030

The Danish government has reversed its ban on state canteens serving meat for two days every week after a backlash from employees.

Officials had proposed to introduce two vegetarian days a week in the canteens, as well as limiting beef or lamb to once a week. However, trade union objections forced a U-turn on the policy after barely a week.

The government has now said it would be up to individual workplaces to decide whether or not to introduce meat-free days.

Denmark had been attempting to make reductions in the nation's diet-related footprint to help meet its ambitious new climate targets. Last year it approved a new climate law to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 70% by 2030.

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