THE GLOBAL WINDOW OF TURKISH FOOD AND AGRICULTURE The Global Window of Turkish Food and Agriculture Sector
Related Articles
March, 2025…
In an era where knowledge is considered the most powerful tool, the prevalence of superstitions regarding food leaves a significant portion of society vulnerable to misinformation. While history has seen food as a means of cultural transmission, it is now becoming a battleground between scientific facts and superstitions. The understanding of food safety based on scientific data has improved the food sector, but rapidly spreading superstitions on social media erode trust in the industry. This raises the importance of combating information pollution and promoting truth in the field of food.
Consumers often rely on incomplete or distorted information, mistaking it for reliable knowledge. The ease of producing baseless pseudo-information makes fake news more appealing and faster to spread compared to scientific knowledge. Additionally, the digital age reinforces individuals’ existing beliefs through echo chambers and algorithms, discouraging critical thinking.
Misleading beliefs like “everything natural is good” have a direct impact on people’s food choices, leading to misconceptions and a break from scientific facts. In reality, some food additives ensure safety, prevent waste, increase functionality, and cater to special nutritional needs. Failing to base decisions on scientific evidence not only endangers individual health, but also undermines the sustainability of the food system.
The Federation of Food and Drink Industry Associations of Türkiye (TGDF) takes a vital role in combating information pollution. By partnering with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, initiatives are being launched to disseminate science-based information, increase food literacy, and correct misinformation. Collaboration with media and digital platforms is crucial in spreading accurate information and ensuring that scientists and experts are able to present the truth rather than sensationalist news. Educating and raising awareness among diverse audiences, from primary school students to health professionals, will contribute to combating the spread of misinformation.
To achieve these objectives, it is necessary to correct the misinformation currently circulating and support this fight with policies and regulations. Transparency in food labelling, advertising, and marketing processes, as well as policies that prevent consumers from being exposed to misleading information, are essential for individual health and the ethical and sustainable development of the food sector.
In order to combat information pollution in the food industry, it is important to implement policies and regulations that ensure transparency in food labelling, advertising, and marketing. These measures are crucial for the individual health and the ethical and sustainable development of the sector.
The BİTKİDEN Association has been actively working to address misinformation in the media by sending informative letters and conducting studies with reliable sources. They also participate in events to raise awareness among experts in the field, such as physicians, dietitians, and food engineers, promoting a science-based approach. They are willing to share their experiences and relationships in these efforts with the TGDF. It is important for society to move away from shadows and gain knowledge based on scientific facts. By working together with science and common consciousness, we can shape the future of food policies and ensure a brighter future. The support in these efforts is greatly appreciated.
By Ebru Akdağ,
Chairwoman of the Association of Plant Based Food
Source: www.tgdf.org.tr
