In his opening remarks, our Dean Prof. Dr. Selahattin Çınar emphasized the importance of such events in clarifying misconceptions about the food chain from field to table and thanked Dr. Ersin Dilber for his participation. Following this, our Rector Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kasım Karahocagil highlighted the fundamental role of agriculture in the existence of humanity and its impact on human health; he stressed the critical importance of food safety in terms of raising public awareness and emphasized the necessity of accessing accurate information from experts in the field.
Within the scope of the conference, comprehensive information was provided regarding the activities of the General Directorate of Food and Inspection (GKGM) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. It was stated that GKGM conducts a wide range of policy development and inspection activities to ensure a reliable food and feed supply from field to table. In this context, information was provided on the work carried out in the areas of food inspections, Turkish Food Codex studies, plant and animal health, quarantine practices, laboratory analyses, and pest control.
In this context;
It was emphasized that:
Regular inspections are carried out at production, sales, and mass consumption points to ensure food and feed safety, and non-conformities are shared with the public;
A fast and effective complaint/follow-up mechanism has been created with the "Safe Food" mobile application developed to increase consumer participation;
Analyses of food, feed, and food contact materials are carried out with advanced laboratory infrastructure, and harmful residues are monitored within the scope of the National Residue Monitoring Plan (UKIP);
Quarantine measures, pest control (e.g., brown marmorated stink bug), and disease control studies are continued to protect plant and animal health;
Legislation development and harmonization efforts with international standards continue within the framework of the Turkish Food Codex.
Furthermore, it was stated that citizens can directly access the inspection information of businesses providing mass consumption services through the QR code application of the developed "Safe Food" mobile software, thus increasing transparency and strengthening consumer awareness.
The General Directorate stated that projects are being developed to ensure sustainability in food safety and that efforts are being made to strengthen public-private sector collaborations. However, it was emphasized that caution should be exercised against misinformation circulating, particularly on social media, and that obtaining information from reliable sources is crucial.
The conference concluded after a question-and-answer session.
