Recently, Helsinki City Council voted 57 – 23 to cut the city’s procurement of meat
and dairy by 50% by 2030. Backed by cross-party support, the policy will see food
services across schools, nurseries and hospitals serve more balanced, appealing
plant-based meals.
This builds on an earlier 2019 commitment to halve consumption by 2025,
demonstrating a sustained, strategic shift in public food.
For UK public sector caterers, it’s a clear signal: large-scale menu change is both
achievable and already happening.
Across Finland, wider trends support this direction. Tofu consumption rose by 20%
last year, alongside growth in plant-based proteins, plant milks and beans. At the
same time, sales of deli meats have declined, and consumers are buying less meat
and dairy overall.
A key driver is Finland’s 2024 National Nutrition Recommendations – among the
most plant-forward globally – which are helping align consumer habits with public
procurement. Cities and institutions are now moving in the same direction as national
guidance.
So what does this mean for the UK?
Public sector caterers are juggling cost, nutritional guidance, sustainability and diner
satisfaction. Helsinki shows that plant-forward menus can deliver on all four when
the focus is on what replaces meat and dairy, not just what’s removed.
That means meals that are familiar and genuinely enjoyable. And importantly,
change doesn’t have to be overnight. Gradual, repeatable shifts (like putting plant-
based dishes in the spotlight or making them the default) can guide diners and
customers to the more sustainable, healthier, choice, without compromising sales.
There’s also a future-proofing angle. As dietary guidelines increasingly reflect health
and environmental goals, procurement is likely to follow. Getting ahead now puts
caterers in a stronger position for what’s next.
Helsinki isn’t just setting targets, it’s showing how long-term change happens. For
UK caterers, it’s a useful reminder: the transition to plant-rich menus is already
underway.
By Joanna Randall
