Equine meat found in minced meat and dye in sumac during food inspections in Mersin
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry announced in its published list of counterfeiting and adulteration that inspections in Mersin detected equine meat and offal in minced meat, as well as prohibited dye in sumac.
The list of adulterated and counterfeited foods updated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry on September 23, 2026, revealed the results of inspections carried out in Mersin. The investigations identified non-compliances in meat and spice products from various businesses.
Inspection and Updated List
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry updated and shared its list of counterfeited and adulterated foods with the public as a result of inspections conducted to ensure a reliable food supply. This updated list included products from certain companies operating in Mersin, alongside businesses in various provinces of Turkey.
Equine Meat Detected in Minced Meat
According to the public announcement by the Ministry, equine meat was detected in raw red minced meat sold by Korkmaz Kasabı-Hadi Kaçan, operating in the Akdeniz district of Mersin. This situation was reflected in the inspection reports and listed among the elements threatening consumer health.
Offal Finding in Mixed Minced Meat
Another business included in the list was Mezitli Et Balık, belonging to Erçolak Gıda Hayvancılık Sanayi ve Ticaret Limited Şirketi. It was officially determined that offal was present in the mixed beef and lamb minced meat product placed on the market by this business.
Prohibited Dye Detected in Sumac
During inspections carried out in the Tarsus district of Mersin, non-compliance was identified in the spice group. A prohibited dye substance, which is strictly not permitted for use in foods, was detected in the sumac offered for sale under the Değirmen Tarsus brand.