Ministry updates list of adulterated food: Donkey meat found in sausage, poultry in lahmacun

The list of adulterated products published by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has brought irregularities in the food sector to light. Fraudulent practices in daily consumer products both threaten public health and undermine consumer trust. Violations detected particularly in sausage, lahmacun, and meatball mixtures have drawn significant backlash.

EQUINE MEAT USED IN SAUSAGES

Data released by the Ministry revealed that horse and donkey meat were used in some sausages. Inspection teams determined that these products were mostly sourced from unregulated and unregistered slaughterhouses. Experts emphasize that such meats carry serious health risks. Food Inspection Specialist Nurten Sırma stated, "It is clear that these meats have not undergone health checks and pose a serious threat to human health. Effective combat against underground production is essential."

MAJOR FRAUD IN LAHMACUN AND MEATBALL MIXTURES

According to the food codex, lahmacun mixtures should contain only red meat; however, it was determined that some producers used poultry to reduce costs. Sırma explained, "The microorganisms found in poultry and red meat are different. Mixing these two types of meat can increase the risk of disease by enhancing the resistance of harmful microorganisms."

NUTRITIONAL VALUES REDUCED IN DAIRY PRODUCTS

Inspections also revealed various fraudulent practices in milk and dairy products. It was determined that in products such as cheese, kashar, and yogurt, the fat content of the milk was reduced, resulting in production with lower nutritional values. The Ministry informed the public by publishing a special list containing these violations. Sırma warned, "Consumers should read product labels carefully and prefer reliable brands."

OTHER DETECTED IRREGULARITIES

Sausages: Mechanically separated poultry meat (remnants of bone, skin, and cartilage) was found in some sausages.

Fat Adulteration: It was determined that vegetable oil was added to kashar cheese and butter.

Misinformation in Supplements: It was found that some food supplements did not actually contain the vitamins and amino acids stated on their labels.

Here is the ministry's updated list of imitation and adulteration...

HOW CAN CONSUMERS PROTECT THEMSELVES?

Food experts offer the following recommendations to protect against fake products:

Prefer reliable brands: Known and inspected brands should be chosen as a priority.

Examine labels carefully: Read the ingredient list and pay attention to additives.

Report suspicious products: Consumers can contribute to increased inspections by reporting products they find suspicious to CİMER or the relevant authorities.