French Deputies Reject Mandatory Nutri-Score, Approve Tax on Alcoholic Energy Drinks in Social Security Budget Debate

In the ongoing 2025 Social Security financing bill (PLFSS) discussions, French deputies have rejected a government proposal to make the Nutri-score labeling mandatory on food products while adopting a tax on alcoholic energy drinks. The Nutri-score, a color-coded system rating the nutritional quality of food from A to E, was initially voted for generalization but faced opposition from the government and some lawmakers. Critics argue the measure could conflict with European regulations and harm traditional products such as AOC and Label Rouge, leading to a narrow vote of 120 against to 117 in favor of rejecting it. Companies not displaying Nutri-score would have faced a 5% revenue tax with proceeds benefiting health insurance.The tax on sweetened alcoholic energy drinks, targeting popular youth beverages like "Vody," was included in the Senate's amendments and adopted by deputies. However, concerns were raised that this tax might inadvertently impact traditional alcoholic products such as "fruit rums" and small regional drinks. Frédéric Valletoux, president of the Social Affairs Committee, intends to pursue a new vote on this tax later in the week.Additionally, the broader PLFSS faces significant resistance in the National Assembly from multiple parties including the National Rally (RN), left-wing factions, and even Horizons, led by former Prime Minister Édouard Philippe, which announced it would abstain or oppose the bill. A government minister described the outlook as "mission impossible," highlighting the difficulty in passing the controversial budget. The Senate has altered the bill by removing elements related to pension reform and certain taxes.This debate reflects the tense political atmosphere surrounding the Social Security budget, with important health and fiscal policy measures contested amid wider concerns about the government's capacity to secure legislative approval.