Be Careful When Buying Candy During the Holidays! Counterfeiting-Adulteration Warning

A warning came from TMMOB Chamber of Food Engineers about the things to be careful about when shopping for candy, chocolate and desserts during the holiday. In the statement made by the chamber, it was stated that inflation and the decrease in purchasing power could endanger food security.

The statement includes the following statements:

  • The Risk of Counterfeiting has Increased: The inflationary environment and the decrease in purchasing power push some food manufacturers to use lower quality raw materials and increase the amount of additives. This situation increases the risk of imitation and adulteration.
  • Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Invited to Duty: The fact that the Counterfeiting List has not been published for years further increases this risk. TMMOB Chamber of Food Engineers called on the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to take action on this issue.
  • Stay Away from Unpackaged Products: Products sold without packaging and in conditions that are not suitable for food preservation and storage are risky. These products may contain physical, chemical, biological and radioactive risks.
  • Trust Food Engineers: It should be known that in places where food engineers and food science are used as references, traceability is ensured, food analyzes are carried out and citizens are informed.
  • Check if the product is registered: Check whether the food business producing the product you purchased is registered with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. You can use the Food Safety Information System (GGBS) to do this.
  • Read Labels Carefully: Information about colorants, allergens, additives and product ingredients are included on the label. Do not purchase products without reading labels carefully.
  • Caution in Milk Desserts: Milk desserts should be stored at +4-6 0C. Make sure that the doors of the cabinets in which it is sold are closed.
  • Pay Attention to Allergen Warnings: It should not be forgotten that allergens may be found in candy, Turkish delight and chocolate products. Pay attention to allergen warnings on the label.

TMMOB Chamber of Food Engineers recommended that these warnings be taken into account and conscious shopping be done to protect food safety.