Germany has contested Türkiye’s application to the EU for recognising döner kebab as a traditional product. In response, Bereket Döner has presented an academic study demonstrating the dish’s deep roots in Turkish history and culture.
At a press event in Istanbul on 5th December, Bereket Döner unveiled its findings, designed to reinforce Türkiye’s application for EU recognition.
“Our research demonstrates that döner is deeply rooted in Turkish history and culture,” declared Mevlüt Ceyhun Tekdemir, Vice Chairman of Bereket Döner’s Board. “From Takiyeddin Efendi’s 16th-century mechanical drawings to insights from Evliya Çelebi, our evidence leaves no doubt about döner’s origins. We trust the European Commission to recognise this heritage appropriately.”
The study, Türkiye’s World-Famous Delicacy: Döner, combines artefacts and documents from the Ottoman era, highlighting döner as a symbol of cultural connection.
Döner: A Culinary Unifier
“Döner is not about division; it’s about unity,” Tekdemir said. “It’s a culinary tradition that brings people together, blending cultures and tastes in a unique way.”
In addition, Bereket Döner announced plans to expand its Döner Point outlets across Europe, starting in Germany, to share authentic Turkish döner with wider audiences.
“We’re excited to bring the true taste of Turkish döner to Europe,” Tekdemir stated. “Our expansion strategy reflects our commitment to preserving and sharing this cultural treasure with the world.”
Bereket Döner’s campaign underscores the cultural importance of döner and its recognition as a global culinary icon.