New Labelling Regulations for Yoghurt and Ayran in Alanya
A significant change in the labelling of fermented milk products such as yoghurt and ayran will come into effect in Alanya starting 1 January 2027.
Following a transitional period, the terms ' ekşi maya' and ' kara maya' will no longer be permitted on product labels in shops.
This new regulation impacts both local producers and consumers in the region, and may change how tourists, Nordic visitors, and foreign residents identify and choose their preferred dairy products in Alanya. The background to this change is the harmonisation of national food regulations, with the deadline for adapting to these new requirements expiring on 31 December 2026.
The objective is to create more uniform and transparent labelling for all fermented milk products sold in Turkey, including popular products such as traditional yoghurt and the refreshing drink ayran.
The authorities want to ensure that all information on packaging is standardised and easier for all consumers to understand. The terms ' ekşi maya' and ' kara maya' have traditionally been deeply rooted in Turkish dairy production. ' Ekşi maya' translates to sour starter, often indicating a yoghurt or ayran made with a specific, traditional starter culture that provides a characteristic tangy flavour and texture. ' Kara maya' (black starter) can also refer to a specific, often darker, traditional culture or a method that gives the product a unique profile.
For many locals, these terms have served as a mark of quality and a guarantee of an authentic taste experience, often associated with smaller, artisanal goods.
Now, consumers will have to get used to the fact that these specific indications will disappear from the shelves. For international visitors, tourists, and residents from the Nordic region and other countries, who may have learned to recognise these terms as signs of quality or authenticity, the change will require a new approach to shopping.
The new, more general labels will no longer provide the same immediate information.
It may therefore be necessary to read ingredient lists carefully or seek advice from shop staff or local acquaintances to find the products that best match one' s preferences for taste and consistency.
This is a development that everyone who shops in Alanya should be aware of to continue making informed choices in the store.
Source: Yenialanya
