Turkish doner moves closer to EU traditional product certification
Türkiye's push for EU recognition of doner kebab sparks resistance from Germany, Sept. 2024. (AA Photo)
The European Union is expected to grant “traditional product name” certification to Turkish doner by the end of 2025.
The International Doner Federation (UDOFED) has worked on the application since 2022 to protect the product’s authenticity and quality standards in international markets.
EU certification process, objections from European countries regarding Turkish doner
UDOFED applied for the certification in 2022, and the application appeared in the EU’s official gazette in April 2024. This triggered a three-month objection period, during which producers in seven European countries, including Germany, raised technical objections.
According to UDOFED President Muhammet Nezif Emek, the objections did not dispute doner’s Turkish origin but focused on production and sales criteria.
We have been addressing concerns raised by producers in these countries and have already reached an agreement with Germany. Discussions with other nations are ongoing.
Muhammet Nezif Emek said
He expects the certification process to conclude successfully within the year. If the application is denied, UDOFED will take legal and diplomatic measures.
We have formed a strong commission of academics, industry representatives, and international patent consultants to manage the process.
Muhammet Nezif Emek added
He also said that alternative strategies will be considered to ensure doner’s international recognition and protection.
Economic significance of Turkish doner in Europe, role in fast food markets
Doner plays a crucial role in the European fast-food industry, with an estimated annual turnover exceeding $3.6 billion. Around 400 tons of doner are consumed daily, and more than 40,000 doner establishments operate across Europe, including 16,000 in Germany alone.
UDOFED believes that certification will prevent unfair competition and misrepresentation of doner.
“With official recognition, production standards will be set, ensuring consumers receive a high-quality and authentic product,” Emek said. He also emphasized the potential benefits for Türkiye’s gastronomy tourism, as international recognition of Turkish doner could further strengthen the country’s culinary reputation.
If the certification process succeeds, it will mark a major step in protecting Turkish cuisine abroad. It will also stop other countries from marketing doner under different names, securing its recognition as a product of Turkish origin.
