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
