Another controversial vote at end of September

Switzerland is heading for another polarising ballot on 27 September

The "For safe food" initiative, launched by Bernese activist Franziska Herren, wants the country to shift towards more plant-based production and consumption.

Farming groups have hit back hard, denouncing what they call a "vegan diktat" against Swiss traditions like cheese and charcuterie.

Statistics show why it’s such a contoversial idea, each resident eats more than 20 kilos of cheese a year and nearly a kilo of meat a week, three times the level recommended by nutritionists and the WHO.

Sociologists say habits are tied as much to family rituals as to taste, which is why change tends to move slowly.

 

More from Bitesize News

Download our app

  • Available on the App Store
  • Available on Google Play