Margarine Industry Closes 2019 Successfully

The margarine sector, which holds an important position within the food industry in our country, is preparing to close 2019 successfully. Ebru Akdağ, General Coordinator of the Kitchen Products and Margarine Manufacturers Association (MÜMSAD), stated that while the sector continues to grow steadily, the world is still debating trans fat limits, the margarine sector in our country is celebrating its 12th year of "trans fat-free" production this year. Ebru Akdağ: "We closely follow scientific developments and global trends. We maintain continuous communication with Nutrition and Dietetics and Food Engineering Departments at universities, medical doctors, stakeholder NGOs and thought leaders. To date, we have reached approximately 10,500 students, 6,500 health professionals and academics through symposiums organized at 57 universities in 30 cities across Turkey. We have a busy agenda in 2020. We will reach more people and exchange information about food safety, and we will continue our fight against misinformation in food." she said. Noting that the "contains no trans fat" logo permitted for use in food products in Turkey has been registered under MÜMSAD's name for 12 years, Ebru Akdağ stated, "The most exciting aspect of 2019 for the margarine sector was that in the 12th year of trans fat-free production, our success story gained greater resonance both in our country and on international platforms. At the IMACE (European Margarine Union) Expert Board Meeting held in Brussels and at the international symposium organized in Elazığ by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) on the occasion of World Food Day on 16 October, we presented Turkey's margarine sector's achievement in eliminating trans fats. The elimination of trans fats through the sector's voluntary implementation is a success story that is rarely seen elsewhere in the world." she said. Akdağ also mentioned another area where MÜMSAD has voluntarily taken the lead: salt reduction in products. "Companies under the MÜMSAD umbrella have been taking steps for years to gradually reduce salt in their products, and the targets set have been welcomed with appreciation by our Ministry of Health. As MÜMSAD, we prioritize food safety and public health above all else. Let us remember that we are all consumers, and it is also our responsibility to choose the most reliable option for ourselves and our loved ones." she said.