A clear shift is taking place in Azerbaijan’s fast-food market – chicken doner is steadily replacing beef doner in popularity.
The trend has accelerated in recent weeks amid reports of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak among cattle, which has shaken consumer confidence and pushed buyers toward poultry-based alternatives.
Reporters from KhazarTV visited several doner outlets across Baku to assess the situation firsthand. Restaurant owners confirmed that sales of beef doner have dropped sharply since news of the outbreak spread.
“Lately, demand for beef doner has fallen noticeably. Most customers now prefer chicken doner,” said one vendor.
Another business owner pointed out that price differences are also influencing consumer preferences:
“Chicken doner definitely sells more. It costs 2 manats, while beef doner is 3 manats,” he explained.
Most customers interviewed said they opt for chicken doner not only due to safety concerns but also for its lighter taste and affordability. However, a smaller group of buyers continue to choose beef doner, saying they are not worried about the animal disease situation.
Meanwhile, the Azerbaijan Food Safety Agency (AFSA) assured the public that the epizootic situation remains under strict control both domestically and abroad. All facilities involved in the production, storage, processing, and sale of animal products are subject to mandatory veterinary inspection.
The agency reminded businesses that they are permitted to sell only products that have passed veterinary testing and comply fully with public health and safety standards.
AFSA also urged consumers to pay attention to hygiene conditions and food preparation practices when purchasing doner and to report any violations by calling the “1003” hotline.
