14.01.2026 12:11
The Istanbul Governorship is implementing a 'zero tolerance' principle to ensure food safety. With the new directive, unauthorized mobile food sales vehicles will not be allowed, a camera system will be mandatory in food businesses, and companies that carry out pest control will be subject to strict supervision. Additionally, a coordination center will be established to ensure rapid intervention and information flow in cases of food poisoning.
The Istanbul Governorship has published a new circular containing comprehensive and strict measures to ensure food safety. In the letter sent to all relevant institutions signed by Governor Davut Gül, the principle of "zero tolerance" regarding food was emphasized, and it was stated that inspections would be increased against practices that endanger public health.
STRICT CONTROL ON STREET SALES
According to the circular, no unauthorized mobile food sales vehicles will be allowed to operate. Vehicles permitted by municipal authorities will be continuously monitored.
MANDATORY CAMERA SYSTEM IN FOOD BUSINESSES
It has become mandatory to install a camera system in the production and sales areas of food businesses, and it was stated that the video recordings would be kept for at least 30 days.
CLOSE MONITORING OF PEST CONTROL COMPANIES AND BIOCIDAL APPLICATIONS
Pest control companies and the businesses receiving this service will also be subject to strict supervision. In case of illegal use of biocidal products, administrative action will be taken by the Provincial and District Health Directorates, and if deemed necessary, a criminal complaint will be filed with the prosecutor's office.
EMERGENCY COORDINATION IN POISONING CASES
In the event of a possible food poisoning case, the Security and Emergency Coordination Center (GAMER) will be activated. Immediate coordination will be established among all relevant institutions under the chairmanship of the Deputy Governor to ensure rapid intervention and information flow.
PROSECUTION FOR SEAL VIOLATIONS
Businesses found to be operating in violation of the regulations as a result of inspections will be sealed. In the event of seal tampering and continuation of unauthorized activities, a criminal complaint will be filed with the Chief Public Prosecutor's Office against those responsible. The governorship requested that all public institutions, municipalities, law enforcement agencies, and relevant professional organizations carry out inspections meticulously and show no tolerance for any practices that endanger public health. Personnel assigned by relevant law enforcement agencies, especially neighborhood watchmen, will regularly monitor whether seal tampering has occurred. If it is determined that the business continues unauthorized operations by tampering with the seal by business owners, employees, or third parties, necessary actions will be taken by the inspecting or reporting institution, and a criminal complaint will be filed with the Chief Public Prosecutor's Office against those responsible.