Adana has recently hosted Türkiye’s first summit on social gastronomy and agriculture, which took place in October as part of the 8th International Taste of Adana Festival. Organised under the support of the Adana Governor’s Office in collaboration with the Social Gastronomy Movement (SGM), based in Switzerland, the event focused on food sustainability, soil health, local farming, and the environmental effects of agriculture. Experts from countries such as Switzerland, the Netherlands, Mexico, the USA, and the Philippines participated, 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 connected international experts with local farmers, chefs, and entrepreneurs from the Çukurova region to explore sustainable solutions to the global challenges facing agriculture today.
A key highlight of the summit was the Universal Plate initiative, a global project by SGM implemented in 40 countries simultaneously. On World Food Day, chefs and participants in Adana prepared and served meals to 2,500 people, joining a worldwide effort to ensure access to healthy food for all.
Collaborating for a sustainable future
“Our goal with this summit is to unite the main actors driving food sustainability—farmers, chefs, scientists, and community leaders—under a shared vision. Working with the Social Gastronomy Movement demonstrates how deeply interconnected agriculture, food, and social impact are,” said Ebru Baybara Demir. “I believe this summit will act as a guide for future collaborations that will focus on solutions for soil health, food security, and sustainable agricultural development.”
The summit, held under the theme “Taste of the Soil,” attracted a diverse group of participants, including local farmers, international experts, government officials, and agricultural students. Discussions focused on finding innovative approaches to tackling agricultural challenges and improving practices for the future.
Soil health and sustainable agriculture were central topics of the event, with the Çukurova region—known for its rich soil—showcased as an ideal location to implement and expand sustainable farming practices globally. Water management and irrigation efficiency were also key points of discussion, particularly as experts stressed the need to conserve water amidst climate change impacts.
Nicola Gryczka, co-founder of SGM, remarked, “Food sustainability goes beyond farming and cooking; it’s about building an ecosystem where everyone has a role, from farm to table. Through education, diversity, and collaboration, we can create food systems that are resilient and serve all communities.” He added, “Adana’s Agriculture Summit marks the start of a journey. We hope this collaboration will strengthen efforts to create a more inclusive and sustainable food future.”
Local perspectives and future goals
Regional officials highlighted the significance of the summit for the region and its potential to impact the broader agricultural sector. Yavuz Selim Köşger, Governor of Adana, noted, “Adana’s agricultural diversity is a testament to our fertile soil. Ensuring safe, accessible food through a seamless chain from soil to plate remains our top priority.”
Zeydan Karalar, Mayor of Adana, reflected on the region’s agricultural landscape: “Adana is home to some of the most fertile plains in the world, enriched by its rivers. As climate change presents new challenges, it is essential to protect and make the most of our lands. Every product we grow must retain its value, and we are committed to making sure this happens.”
For further details on the summit and its initiatives, visit the Taste of Adana Festival’s website.
Contact: Karolin Ergin | O2 İletişim | kergin@o2iletisim.com | 05323845711
