On November 14, World Diabetes Day, Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki hosted Ege Diabetes Association President Gamze Bakkallar and Vice President Gül Öndöl, announcing that municipal cafés will soon offer special menus for individuals with diabetes.

Emphasizing that diabetes is a widespread public health issue, Mayor Eşki said:
“Next year, we will renovate all municipal cafés in Bornova—both in terms of their physical conditions and kitchen infrastructure. From now on, our menus will be prepared under the guidance of nutrition experts. In this context, some of our cafés will be made suitable for individuals with celiac disease, and all of them will include diabetes-friendly menu options. We also plan to create a special section for diabetes-friendly products in our Kent Markets.”

Through the collaboration with the Ege Diabetes Association, diabetes-friendly products will be offered, and QR codes on menus will allow customers to easily access information on the carbohydrate, sugar, and calorie values of all food and beverage items.

“Local governments play a major role in public health”

Mayor Eşki emphasized that local governments hold responsibilities beyond infrastructure, highlighting their role in supporting public health:

“Healthy individuals are the foundation of a healthy society. As a municipality, we will continue producing projects that touch every segment of the community and improve quality of life. Our greatest goal is for every resident of Bornova to live a healthy, informed, and happy life.”

He also noted that the diabetes-sensitive menu initiative will be expanded to all municipal businesses across Bornova in the upcoming period.

Appreciation from the Association: “This awareness should set an example”

Ege Diabetes Association President Gamze Bakkallar stated that Bornova Municipality’s sensitivity toward diabetes awareness is exemplary for all local governments:
“We thank Mayor Eşki for his commitment to raising public awareness and improving the quality of life for individuals with diabetes. We hope this approach inspires other municipalities as well.”