Legislative proposal rekindles debate on horse meat consumption in Italy.
A new legislative proposal in Italy aimed at banning the slaughter of horses for their meat has triggered a significant national debate.
The bill, which seeks to recognise horses as pets, was introduced by MP and animal rights activist Michela Vittoria Brambilla and is currently being debated in parliament.
If approved, the legislation would impose prison sentences of up to three years and fines of up to €100,000 for equine slaughter.
“Today, equines are still exploited in every way, and often the final destination of their journeys is the slaughterhouse,” writes Brambilla of Noi Moderati, a member of Giorgia Meloni’s ruling coalition – “This proposal is an extraordinary opportunity to bring about a cultural change that is already dear to the hearts of the majority of Italians.”
Legislative initiative and public support
The proposal is strongly advocated by animal rights groups, such as the International Organization for Animal Protection (OIPA), which argues that horses possess cognitive and emotional complexities that warrant special protection.
Proponents emphasise the shifting social perception of equines, moving from utilitarian roles in agriculture to partners in sport, therapy and companionship.
This shift is reflected in declining consumption rates; however, Italy remains one of the leading countries in Europe for both the consumption and importation of horse meat.
Changing trends
In Italy the annual number of horses slaughtered has declined sharply, from more than 70,000 a year in 2012 to around 22,000 in 2024, according to national statistics agency Istat.
A study carried out by Ipsos, published last May, shows that only 17 per cent of meat consumers say they eat horse meat at least once a month. Among those who don’t eat it, 42 per cent explain their choice with a sense of empathy towards the animals, and 31 per cent already consider them pets.
Economic and cultural opposition
The potential ban faces substantial opposition from various sectors, with objections ranging from cultural tradition to economic impart and regulatory concerns.
In Italian regions such as Puglia, Sicily, Lombardia, Veneto and Emilia-Romagna, horse meat is a deeply rooted culinary tradition with specific local specialties, including brasciola di cavallo (a type of horse stew), horse meat balls and even horse meat pesto.
Stakeholders in the meat industry and specialised butchers argue that a ban would lead to significant job losses and the disappearance of a historic supply chain.
Opponents also suggest that a domestic ban might simply push the market underground or increase imports from countries with lower animal welfare standards.
