Mechanically separated meat sparks concern in Türkiye over food quality

Türkiye’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry recently uncovered the rising use of “mechanically separated meat” (mekanik kiyma) in widely consumed products like kebabs, lahmacun and sausages.

This form of processed meat, although prohibited in specific products, appears in some foods where producers use it to reduce production costs. Türkiye’s Butchers Federation has raised concerns over this trend, emphasizing the importance of transparency for consumers.

Turkish Butchers Federation warns against mechanically separated meat in minced products

The ministry’s inspections have shown that some producers use mechanically separated poultry parts – such as bones, skin and tendons – mixed with soy to create a low-cost alternative sold as minced meat.

Türkiye’s Butchers Federation President, Osman Yardimci, emphasized that using mechanically separated meat misleads consumers and undermines food quality.

Ready-made minced meat often contains mechanically processed poultry parts mixed with soy. Consumers should avoid pre-packaged minced meat and instead buy directly from a butcher, ensuring they see the meat ground in front of them.

Osman Yardimci

Yardimci criticized businesses for prioritizing profit over quality, explaining that mechanically separated poultry products are not suitable for items like kofte, kebab and sucuk.

“Some establishments are using these low-cost mechanical meats that sacrifice both taste and quality,” he said. He also urged consumers to purchase meat from butchers, where this processed alternative is prohibited. “Mechanically processed meat should be completely banned,” he added, pressing for stricter oversight.

What will happen now?

Türkiye’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry responded to the issue by promising to reinforce inspections and prevent the unauthorized use of mechanically separated meat. The ministry assures consumers that it regularly updates its list of prohibited foods and will enforce stricter rules on businesses that compromise quality for cost-cutting.