With Plant-Based Consumption on the Rise in Turkey, Are the New Labelling Laws A Blow?

Turkey has recently implemented new labelling laws that have brought both positive and negative impacts on the plant-based food sector, which is gaining popularity in the country. The changes have allowed for the recognition of plant-based cheese as a separate product, but restrict the use of terms like 'milk' and 'cheese' for dairy alternatives. This has sparked debate among industry experts, with some praising the clarity brought by the regulations, while others express concerns about the impact on small and medium-sized producers who may struggle to comply with the new requirements.

The regulations also aim to enhance transparency and consumer confidence by introducing mandatory certification and inspection processes, as well as requiring foodservice operators to clearly label meat-free options. While these changes are seen as steps towards strengthening the plant-based sector in Turkey, challenges remain for producers navigating the new rules and adapting to the limitations imposed on certain terms and marketing practices.