Adana recently hosted Türkiye’s first agriculture summit focused on social gastronomy, as part of the 8th International Taste of Adana Festival in October. Organised with the support of the Adana Governor’s Office in collaboration with the Switzerland-based Social Gastronomy Movement (SGM), the summit addressed key issues such as food sustainability, soil health, irrigation, and the environmental challenges facing agriculture. Experts from Switzerland, the Netherlands, Mexico, the USA, and the Philippines were in attendance, including chefs, farmers, and entrepreneurs.
Chef Ebru Baybara Demir, the first Turkish chef to win the 2023 Basque Culinary World Prize, and recognised as a Global Food Hero by the UNFAO, led the summit. The event focused on connecting international delegates with local farmers, chefs, and entrepreneurs from the Çukurova region, aiming to explore sustainable agricultural solutions for modern challenges.
A key highlight was the Universal Plate initiative, an SGM-led project implemented in 40 countries simultaneously. On World Food Day, chefs and participants in Adana prepared and distributed meals to 2,500 people, joining a global effort to ensure access to healthy food for all.
Building a sustainable agricultural future
“Our aim with this summit is to unite the main actors driving food sustainability—farmers, chefs, scientists, and community leaders—around a shared vision. Working with the Social Gastronomy Movement demonstrates the deep connection between agriculture, food, and social impact,” said Ebru Baybara Demir. “I believe this summit will serve as a foundation for future collaborations focused on soil health, food security, and sustainable agricultural practices.”
Held under the theme “Taste of the Soil,” the summit attracted local farmers, international experts, government representatives, and students. Discussions revolved around new ways to tackle agricultural challenges and improve practices for the future.
Key topics included soil health and sustainable farming, with the fertile Çukurova region showcased as a model location for developing sustainable farming practices that could be replicated globally. Water management and efficient irrigation systems were also central themes, as experts highlighted the effects of climate change and the critical need to conserve water.
Nicola Gryczka, co-founder of SGM, stated, “Food sustainability goes beyond farming and cooking; it’s about creating an ecosystem where everyone has a role, from farm to plate. Through education, diversity, and collaboration, we can build resilient food systems that serve everyone.” He added, “Adana’s Agriculture Summit is only the beginning. We hope this collaboration will help build a more inclusive and sustainable food future.”
Regional perspectives and future development
Regional leaders highlighted the significance of the summit for Adana and its broader impact on agriculture. Yavuz Selim Kö?ger, the Governor of Adana, stated, “Adana’s diverse agricultural output reflects our fertile soil. Ensuring safe, accessible food through a smooth process from soil to plate is our top priority.”
Zeydan Karalar, Mayor of Adana, remarked on the region’s agricultural potential: “Adana has some of the most fertile plains in the world, enriched by its rivers. As climate change increases the risks facing agriculture, we must protect and harness our lands. Every product grown must retain its value, and we are committed to ensuring that.”
For further details on the summit and its initiatives, visit the Taste of Adana Festival’s website.
Contact: Karolin Ergin | O2 ?leti?im | kergin@o2iletisim.com | 05323845711
