Contract manufacturing in the food sector enables brands to bring their products to market through expert food manufacturers without establishing their own production facilities. Turkey's food contract manufacturing sector is growing every year and offering significant opportunities to new entrepreneurs.
What is Food Contract Manufacturing?
Food contract manufacturing is the production of food products by another manufacturing facility according to a brand's or company's own recipes and formulations. This model is widely used in snacks, beverages, canned goods, frozen foods, spices, sauces, bakery products, and many other categories.
Legal Requirements for Food Contract Manufacturing
Companies wishing to engage in food contract manufacturing must comply with regulations set by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. Key legal requirements include:
- Food Business Registration: The production facility must obtain a business registration certificate
- HACCP Certificate: Implementation of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points system is required
- ISO 22000: Food safety management system certification is recommended
- Halal Certification: Halal certification provides advantages for domestic and export markets
- Labeling Regulations: Compliance with Turkish Food Codex labeling requirements is mandatory
Food Contract Manufacturing Process
1. Product Development and Formulation
The first step is creating the product formulation. Brand owners can bring their own recipes or get support from the manufacturer's R&D team. Taste tests, shelf life studies, and nutritional value analyses are conducted at this stage.
2. Sample Production and Approval
After formulation is determined, sample production takes place. Samples are evaluated for taste, smell, texture, color, and packaging. After necessary revisions, the final sample is approved.
3. Raw Material Procurement
Quality and reliable raw material procurement is one of the most critical stages of food contract manufacturing.
4. Production and Quality Control
During mass production, manufacturing is carried out in accordance with HACCP principles. Samples are taken from each batch for microbiological and chemical analyses.
5. Packaging and Labeling
Products are packaged with food safety standard-compliant packaging materials. Labels are prepared in accordance with the Turkish Food Codex.
Finding Food Contract Manufacturers in Turkey
One of the most effective methods for finding food contract manufacturers in Turkey is using the TR2B platform. Through TR2B, you can reach hundreds of food sector contract manufacturers, review their capacity and certification information, and request quotes directly.
What to Look for When Choosing a Food Manufacturer
- Certifications: International certifications such as ISO 22000, HACCP, BRC, IFS
- Production Capacity: Minimum order quantity and monthly production capacity
- Hygiene Standards: Facility hygiene, personnel training, and cleaning protocols
- R&D Support: Formulation development and product improvement capabilities
- References: Previous brand partnerships and customer satisfaction
For dietary supplement manufacturing, see Dietary Supplement Manufacturing Guide. For contract preparation, see How to Prepare a Contract.