Published in the Official Gazette: 'Use-by' date removed from eggs

The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has implemented an important regulation regarding the shelf life of table eggs. The "Communiqué on Amending the Turkish Food Codex Communiqué on Eggs" has been published in the Official Gazette and has officially entered into force.

With the change, prepared by taking into account European Union regulations and Turkey's needs, various arrangements have been made to prevent food waste. The most notable change is that the "use-by date" expression on table egg packaging will now be replaced with "best-before date".

SHELF LIFE EXTENDED

The time allowed for eggs to reach the consumer from the date of laying has been increased from 21 days to 28 days. However, it will not be possible to sell these eggs as table eggs after 28 days. After this date, they will only be used in the production of egg products.

NEW CRITERIA FOR EXTRA FRESHNESS

New rules have also been introduced for table eggs to be classified as "extra fresh". Classification, marking, and packaging processes must be completed within the first 4 days after laying. If these processes are not completed within 10 days, the products cannot be used as table eggs and can only be used in industrial production.

DEFINITIONS CLARIFIED

The definition of "egg product" in the Communiqué has been brought into line with European Union legislation. In addition, the definition of "air cell", used to determine the freshness of an egg, has been officially added to the Communiqué.

CLARITY ON CLASS B EGGS

The phrase "Class B eggs are used in the food industry" in the Communiqué has been reorganized with clearer language. In its new form, it is ensured that these eggs are defined only as "sent to and used in the food industry". This will prevent them from being offered for human consumption at retail points.

FREE-RANGE DEFINITION REVISED

The term "free-range farming" has been simplified to "access to free-range area (free-range) farming" so that it can be more easily understood by consumers and producers.

TRANSITION PERIOD GRANTED

Existing businesses have been granted until December 31, 2025, to comply with the new regulations.

The Ministry announced that it will continue its legislative work within the scope of the Turkish Food Codex with the same determination to ensure that the public has access to safe food.

News Source: 12punto