"Sheep meat is cheaper, but we do not like the smell"

In the midst of skyrocketing prices for red meat in Turkey, the recent comments made by Turkey’s Finance Minister Nureddin Nebati over “changing taste” of Turkish consumers have been met with widespread criticism.

During a recent appearance on Turkey’s Haber Global TV, Nebati said that while sheep meat is cheap, people are no longer interested in consuming it. He also suggested that children in particular are put off by the smell of sheep meat.

"A production planning needs to be made. Due to the increase in food prices, there have been some problems with meat prices. The taste of society has changed. Sheep meat is very cheap, but people are not eating it. We live in a region where the structure in Turkey is oriented towards sheep meat. However, we have turned our taste to beef. Our children do not eat sheep meat and are uncomfortable with the smell. Steps need to be taken to solve this problem. We need to make sheep meat more desirable."

Nebati's comments have been viewed by many as out of touch with the reality facing Turkish families.

Many users on social media expressed disappointment and frustration with the comments of Nebati.

With red meat prices having increased by 60% in the past three months, many believe that Nebati's comments downplay the significant financial burden placed on Turkish households.