French Parliament Extends Supermarket Use of Meal Vouchers Through 2026

The decision reinstates a popular measure allowing meal vouchers to purchase non-prepared food, initially introduced during the pandemic to support purchasing power.

The French Senate has approved the extension of a law allowing meal vouchers to be used for non-prepared food items in supermarkets until December 31, 2026.
The measure, originally introduced in 2022 to boost consumer purchasing power during the COVID-19 crisis, had expired on January 1, 2025, creating uncertainty for millions of users.
The decision aligns with the National Assembly's two-year extension proposal, avoiding further legislative delays and ensuring quick implementation.
Restaurateurs have opposed the extension, arguing it diverts meal voucher spending away from their sector, while consumers and distributors widely support the measure.
The government has pledged to deliver a comprehensive reform of the meal voucher system by summer 2025 to modernize its usage and address stakeholder concerns.