Major Turkish steakhouse chain faces backlash as pork found in Halal-certified meats
Prominent Turkish steakhouse chain in Türkiye, Kofteci Yusuf, faces backlash after reports reveal that its beef-lamb products allegedly contain pork. (AA Photo)
A famous steakhouse chain in Türkiye faces scrutiny after reports reveal its beef-lamb products contain pork, sparking widespread discussion.
Meanwhile, the renowned meat restaurant claims to sell its products under the label of “Halal Certification.” According to Turkish media reports, the restaurant in question is Kofteci Yusuf, which has 278 branches across Türkiye.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry recently published a list of foods that have been counterfeited or adulterated. The list identified numerous restaurants, both large and small, using non-compliant meat products, with Kofteci Yusuf facing allegations of including pork in its offerings.
The controversy began on social media with claims that a popular Turkish steakhouse chain had pork in its products, as reported by Turkish media outlet T24 journalist Cengiz Anil Bolukbas. Following inspections by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, pork was reportedly found in samples taken from Kofteci Yusuf.
Two separate examination reports, dated February 27 and March 7, reportedly reveal pork in meat samples from the Turkish steakhouse chain Kofteci Yusuf.
No comment from the company
Meanwhile, it was alleged that Kofteci Yusuf acted before the ministry to prevent the disclosure of its name by taking the matter to court and obtaining a stay of execution regarding the publication of the adulteration list.
However, no court ruling has surfaced regarding this issue, and neither the company nor the ministry has issued a statement.
Lawyer for Kofteci Yusuf reportedly stated that he had no information about the matter and could not provide a comment or respond to the allegations.
Are there pig farms in Türkiye?
While the exact number of licensed or unlicensed pig farms in Türkiye remains unclear, in May 2024, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Ibrahim Yumaklı addressed a parliamentary inquiry on the subject.
He stated that there are no restrictions on pork production and sales in Türkiye, indicating that pork and related products are primarily sold to tourist facilities and registered businesses that specialize in pork sales.
