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Health warnings regarding sugar consumption in Turkey

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2026-09-21 07:31 UTC → 2026-09-24 07:25 UTC · added ~~removed~~

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 ~~choose water over sugary drinks and whole fruits over juices~~ read nutrition labels carefully to manage risks like insulin resistance.

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