Turkey investigates starch-based sugar companies for quota violations

Authorities in Turkey have launched a large-scale investigation into the starch-based sugar (NBŞ) industry following allegations of quota and domestic sales limit violations. Coordinated by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, searches and seizures were conducted at 26 addresses belonging to 25 companies across eight provinces, including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Adana.

Investigators suspect that companies are bypassing regulations by mislabeling products. Evidence suggests that items intended to be restricted are being invoiced under different names such as “maltodextrin”, “glucose”, “starch”, or “fructose” to hide their true nature. The probe, supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Tax Inspection Board, also includes allegations of tax evasion, forgery of private documents, and the trade of spoiled or altered food products. 47 company managers have been summoned for questioning.

The investigation highlights ongoing tensions in the Turkish food market between traditional beet sugar production and the rise of corn-based sweeteners. Global actors like Cargill have been central to these discussions regarding the legal status and market impact of starch-based sweeteners in the country.