Ministry Renews Flavoring Regulations in Foods

September 15, 2026 · Bloomberg HT

The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has adapted food flavoring regulations to EU standards, completely banning pork and insect-derived components and 10 different flavoring substances.

Comprehensive Regulatory Change in Flavorings

The Turkish Food Codex Regulation on Flavorings and Food Ingredients with Flavoring Properties, prepared by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, has been published in the Official Gazette and entered into force. Within the framework of alignment with European Union legislation, the previous regulation from 2011 has been completely repealed. Under the new regulation, only components that are based on scientific evidence, do not pose a risk to consumer health, and do not mislead consumers will be approved for use in foods. Products that do not comply with the provisions will not be allowed on the market.

Banned Substances and Introduced Restrictions

According to the published regulation, the use of pork and insect-derived flavorings and components obtained from these sources in foods has been completely banned. Furthermore, according to data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the use, import, and sale of 10 flavoring substances with codes FL 04.029, FL 05.100, FL 05.175, FL 05.222, FL 15.029, FL 15.030, FL 15.060, FL 15.119, FL 15.130, and FL 15.131 in food production will be halted. In addition, the use of 2 flavoring substances on the list has been restricted to specific categories.

'Natural' Condition on Labels and Transition Period

Very strict rules have also been introduced regarding the use of the term 'natural' on product labels. According to the new criterion, for this term to be used in flavorings, it is required that at least 95% of the components by weight must be derived from the specified source. Food businesses have been granted a transition period until December 31, 2026, to comply with these rules. Products manufactured or placed on the market before this date will be allowed to remain on shelves until their shelf life expires.

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