In October, Adana hosted Türkiye’s first agriculture summit on social gastronomy, part of the 8th International Taste of Adana Festival. The summit was organised under the Adana Governor’s Office and in collaboration with the Switzerland-based Social Gastronomy Movement (SGM), addressing pressing issues such as food sustainability, local farming, soil health, irrigation techniques, and the environmental impact of agriculture. The event gathered chefs, farmers, and entrepreneurs from countries such as Switzerland, the Netherlands, Mexico, the USA, and the Philippines.
The summit was led by Chef Ebru Baybara Demir, who became the first Turkish chef to win the 2023 Basque Culinary World Prize. She is also recognised as a Global Food Hero by the UNFAO. The event focused on connecting international experts with local farmers, chefs, and entrepreneurs to explore how agriculture can adapt to global challenges.
One of the standout moments was the Universal Plate initiative, a global project by SGM that took place in 40 countries simultaneously. In celebration of World Food Day, chefs and participants in Adana prepared and served meals to 2,500 people, joining worldwide efforts to emphasise equal access to healthy food.
Building a sustainable food ecosystem
“Our mission with this summit is to bring together the key drivers of food sustainability—farmers, chefs, scientists, and community leaders—around a common vision. By partnering with the Social Gastronomy Movement, we aim to demonstrate the interconnection between agriculture, food, and social impact,” said Ebru Baybara Demir. “I believe this summit will become a guide for future collaborations in tackling soil health, food security, and sustainable agriculture.”
Themed “Taste of the Soil,” the summit attracted local farmers, international experts, government representatives, and agricultural students. It explored new approaches to resolving the agricultural challenges of the future.
Soil health was a key issue, with experts discussing the need to improve soil quality for long-term farming success. The fertile lands of the Çukurova region were highlighted as an example of where sustainable farming practices can be developed and applied globally. Efficient water management and irrigation techniques were also central to the discussions, particularly given the impact of climate change and the critical need to conserve water resources.
Nicola Gryczka, SGM’s co-founder, noted, “Food sustainability goes beyond farming and cooking; it’s about creating a comprehensive ecosystem where everyone plays a role, from farm to table. Through education, diversity, and collaboration, we can build food systems that are resilient and benefit everyone.” He added, “Adana’s Agriculture Summit is just the beginning. We hope this collaboration will strengthen efforts to create an inclusive and sustainable food future, laying the foundation for future partnerships.”
Local perspectives and future direction
Regional officials emphasised the importance of the summit for Adana and its potential impact on the broader agricultural sector. Governor Yavuz Selim Köşger commented, “Adana’s wide-ranging agricultural output is proof of our region’s fertile soil. Ensuring safe, accessible food from soil to plate remains our top priority.”
Adana’s Mayor, Zeydan Karalar, reflected on the region’s agricultural advantages: “Adana has some of the most fertile plains in the world, nourished by its rivers. As climate change increases risks in agriculture, we must protect and harness our lands. Every product grown here must hold its value, and we are committed to making sure this happens.”
For more details on the summit and its initiatives, visit the Taste of Adana Festival’s website.
Contact: Karolin Ergin | O2 İletişim | kergin@o2iletisim.com | 05323845711
