Hendrik Dierendonck, a second-generation butcher in Belgium who has gained fame for his choice of locally sourced beef, believes that Europe’s unique methods of raising cattle contribute to a wide range of tasty beef cuts that Europeans appreciate. Mr. Dierendonck attributes the preference for hormone-free, grass-fed beef to the strict European Union food laws that prohibit the use of hormones and control the quality of his products. However, these very rules could become a point of contention in trade discussions, as the Trump administration argues that American meat, produced without similar restrictions, is superior and should be sold more in Europe.
European Union policymakers, however, show little enthusiasm for relaxing their strict food safety standards to accommodate imports of American beef and chicken. The European Union is protective of its agricultural system that consists of traditional family-run farms and emphasizes the importance of maintaining distinct food cultures. The strict rules and tariffs imposed by the European Union mean that American exporters must adhere to hormone limitations when selling their products to EU countries, a stance that European farmers maintain is vital to preserve their livelihoods.
The controversy over European health standards shows little sign of resolution, as some believe that the caution is rooted in consumer preferences rather than actual risk. European consumers show strong support for the EU food and farming rules, with polls showing a significant majority agreeing that imports should only be allowed if they meet the EU’s environmental and animal welfare standards. For now, American beef is not likely to make big inroads into the European market, as European consumers and policymakers remain committed to upholding their food safety and cultural traditions.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/11/world/europe/tariffs-farm-products-beef-meat-european-union-trump.html
