National Food Agency finds excess contaminants in Turkish-made Ayvalık olive oil

As part of state food safety controls, the National Food Agency has found that a sample of Turkish-made extra virgin olive oil, sold under the Ayvalık brand in 5-litre tins, did not meet the requirements of Georgian law.

According to the agency, the sample contained elevated levels of glycidyl fatty acid esters and of 3-MCPD and its fatty acid esters.

“The analysis was carried out at the laboratory of BIOR, the Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment.

The laboratory result applies to this specific sample and does not establish non-compliance in other products or batches from the same producer. The agency is assessing the relevant data and taking swift action to protect public health.

Product identification details: brand: Ayvalık; packaging: 5-litre tin; barcode: 8693465410990; producer registration number: TR-10-K-042281.

The National Food Agency began testing oils and fats for certain contaminants in 2026. So far, 71 samples of oils and fats have been taken,” the agency said.