# Health warnings regarding sugar consumption in Turkey

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/health-warnings-regarding-sugar-consumption-in-turkey
> Updated: 2026-09-23T21:46:00.000Z. Sources: 28. Developments: 3.

Health professionals and Turkish authorities continue to issue warnings regarding the metabolic risks associated with hidden sugar consumption in processed foods. Dietary experts caution consumers against products marketed as ‘light’, ‘zero calorie’, ‘sugar-free’, ‘fit’, or ‘natural’, noting they often contain glucose syrup, fructose syrup, or refined carbohydrates.

The Turkish Ministry of Health has linked unnoticed sugar intake—particularly through sweetened beverages—to long-term issues such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver. To combat these risks, the Ministry is implementing the ‘Turkey Healthy Nutrition and Active Life Program 2025-2028’. This initiative includes increased diabetes and weight screenings by family physicians, the development of the ‘School Food Logo’ to guide students, and educational activities at Healthy Life Centers.

In observance of World Sugar Awareness Week, dietitian Fatma Tuğba Şölen from Sivas Numune Hospital highlighted that sugar is frequently present in unexpected items such as honey, molasses, jams, and packaged goods like chocolate and wafers. Şölen advised making sustainable dietary adjustments, such as choosing water or ayran over sugary drinks and opting for milk-based desserts or fresh fruit instead of syrup-based sweets.

Community engagement remains a key component of these efforts. In Malatya, the ‘Healthy Child Festival’ was held at 100. Yıl Kent Park with support from the Malatya Metropolitan Municipality. During the event, Mayor Sami Er emphasized that ‘a healthy society is built upon healthy children,’ highlighting the importance of supporting children’s physical, social, and mental development. Nutritionists continue to advise the public to read nutrition labels carefully to manage risks like insulin resistance.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-23: Dietitian warns of health risks from excessive sugar consumption

Dietitian Fatma Tuğba Şölen warns against excessive sugar intake, linking it to obesity and diabetes, and suggests replacing sugary drinks with water or ayran.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dietitian-warns-of-health-risks-from-excessive-sugar-consumption

### 2026-09-19: Turkey issues health warnings on sugar consumption and obesity

The Turkish Ministry of Health warns against excessive sugar intake to combat diabetes and obesity, while Malatya hosts a Healthy Child Festival to promote wellness and development in youth.

23 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turkish-health-officials-warn-of-metabolic-risks-from-hidden-sugar-consumption

### 2026-09-12: Dietitian warns against hidden sugars in light and sugar-free products

Dietitian Nazlı Aydın warns that ‘light’ and ‘sugar-free’ products often contain hidden sugars and additives, urging consumers to check back labels for glucose syrup and refined carbohydrates.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dietitian-warns-against-hidden-sugars-in-light-and-sugar-free-products

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Cite as: Health warnings regarding sugar consumption in Turkey. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/health-warnings-regarding-sugar-consumption-in-turkey