Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU), in collaboration with the Samsun Celiac and Gluten-Free Nutrition Association and Samsun Metropolitan Municipality, organized a “Gluten-Free Living Panel.”

Held as part of World Celiac Disease Week, the panel aimed to raise public awareness about celiac disease, share information on the importance of a gluten-free diet, and support the quality of life for individuals with celiac disease.

The panel was attended by OMU Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz, OMU Secretary General Prof. Dr. Erhan Burak Pancar, Samsun Metropolitan Municipality Social Services Branch Manager Atilla Genç, Faculty of Engineering Vice Dean Prof. Dr. Nihan Kaya, and President of the Samsun Celiac and Gluten-Free Nutrition Association, Sara Kosif.

During the panel, Dr. Öğr. Üyesi İbrahim Gören presented on “Diagnosis and Treatment of Celiac Disease,” Prof. Dr. Pınar Sökülmez Kaya spoke on “Celiac and Nutrition,” Prof. Dr. Münir Anıl discussed “Scientific Research,” Beyza Tutku Emen shared “My Story,” and Arş. Gör. Nedime Doğan Özdemir gave a talk titled “A Bit About Me.”

Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz: “A gluten-free lifestyle is not a choice but a necessity”

Speaking during the event, Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz emphasized that living with celiac disease is not only a personal matter but a shared responsibility of society. He explained that a diagnosis dramatically changes a person’s life: “Celiac disease affects more than just eating habits; it impacts social life, education, employment, and psychological well-being,” he said.

Prof. Dr. Kurnaz noted that the Celiac Association was established in 2019 and has since carried out significant awareness campaigns. “Celiac is not just a disease; it’s a way of life. Creating conditions suitable for that lifestyle is not only the responsibility of individuals with celiac disease, but of all of us,” he said, calling for greater societal support.

Prof. Dr. Münir Anıl: “We have applied for a patent for gluten-free chickpea candy”

In his presentation, OMU Faculty of Engineering Food Engineering Department faculty member Prof. Dr. Münir Anıl shared that OMU has conducted various studies on celiac disease. They have developed gluten-free chips, cakes, tarhana (fermented soup base), and chickpea candy.

“We need to produce joyful foods for children,” he said. “In gluten-free products, we use different ingredients instead of wheat flour as a thickener and binder. Even trace amounts of gluten can harm individuals with gluten intolerance, so we continue our research using alternative formulas.”

He added that they have applied for a patent for the chickpea candy and that cakes made with roasted chickpea flour have been very well received. “Our products are enjoyed not only by those with celiac disease but also by individuals who prefer a healthy diet,” he said.

Sara Kosif: “Diagnosis often brings anxiety, uncertainty, and loneliness”

Sara Kosif, President of the Samsun Celiac and Gluten-Free Nutrition Association, shared the emotional motivation behind the association’s formation: “When a person is diagnosed with celiac, the process can be filled with anxiety, uncertainty, and loneliness. We founded our association to remind each other that we are not alone. Through social media, we came together and said, ‘Why not fight this together?’”

Kosif emphasized that the association promotes solidarity, expands gluten-free dietary options, and raises public awareness. “We, as individuals with celiac, are not alone—we are a community that understands, supports, and guides one another,” she said.

Atilla Genç: “Gluten-free living is a necessity, not a choice”

Atilla Genç, Head of the Disabled Services Branch of Samsun Metropolitan Municipality, stressed that gluten-free nutrition is essential for individuals with celiac disease, but it is often costly and difficult to access.

“Our Mayor, Halit Doğan, made a campaign promise to open a Gluten-Free Café to support the daily lives of people with celiac disease, and that promise has been fulfilled,” Genç said. He noted that the café, located in Adnan Kahveci Park in İlkadım, serves not only those with celiac disease but also the general public. He also mentioned the municipality’s distribution of special food packages for celiac patients during Ramadan and pledged continued support, especially in improving access to gluten-free foods.

Beyza Tutku Emen: “23 years with celiac disease”

Beyza Tutku Emen, one of the panel attendees, shared her personal journey with the condition: “My symptoms started with abdominal pain, iron deficiency, and anemia. My growth had stalled. After visiting many doctors and undergoing numerous tests, I was diagnosed with celiac disease. Twenty-three years ago, the disease wasn’t well known, and gluten-free product options were very limited. Today, we can find these products in stores, which makes life easier.”

The panel concluded with a plaque ceremony and a group photo session.