Agriculture and Forestry Minister İbrahim Yumaklı has announced the initiation of an extensive food inspection campaign starting on September 13, covering all 81 provinces in Turkey with a particular focus on grocery stores, butchers, and delicatessens.
In a televised interview with private broadcaster A Haber on September 12, Minister Yumaklı emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to food inspections and public health. He encouraged all food-serving businesses to reevaluate their practices and standards.
This upcoming inspection initiative builds upon a broader study that began earlier. Between August 21 and September 8, inspectors conducted assessments of various establishments, including eateries, restaurants, and hotels known for mass food consumption.
During the initial phase of inspections, which involved over 7,600 personnel and covered 55,000 inspections, deficiencies were identified in 245 businesses, resulting in necessary administrative actions, according to Yumaklı.
“We will continue to monitor the progress of companies that were found to be non-compliant. These inspections will be conducted at three-week intervals to ensure a sustained commitment to safety standards,” he added.
Minister Yumaklı also encouraged citizens to actively participate in the process by reporting any irregularities related to food. He urged them to use ALO174, the ministry’s food hotline, and mentioned that reports shared on social media platforms would also be taken into consideration.
