Overview

• The International Dönerverband (Udofed) withdrew its EU application on 23 September 2025, and a European Commission spokeswoman confirmed the registration procedure was stopped.
• The filing sought Guaranteed Traditional Specialty status that would have fixed recipes EU-wide, including meat from at least 16‑month‑old cattle or specific sheep cuts, with only chicken breast or thighs allowed for poultry versions.
• German ministries, politicians and trade groups had lodged formal objections during the consultation, which concluded without agreement on 20 March before the dossier went to the Commission.
• Industry groups warned that about 18,500 German outlets and roughly €2.4 billion in annual sales were at risk, with sector estimates of around 400 tonnes produced daily in Europe and about 60,000 jobs.
• Udofed did not explain the reversal, though reporting citing EU sources suggested it may have sought to pre‑empt a likely rejection, while German producers voiced relief that local variety remains.