Turkmenistan's food system combines desert and oasis agriculture, pastoral traditions and the urban food environment of Ashgabat. This page examines traditional foods, street food, salt, sugary drinks and prevention of obesity, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
WHO's current country overview estimates that 21.4% of adults were living with obesity in 2022 (uncertainty interval 18.7–24.3%) and that NCDs accounted for 67.3% of deaths in 2021. WHO's 2018 survey reporting also found raised blood pressure in 25.9% of adults and average salt consumption well above its recommended limit.
Traditional food systems include wheat breads, legumes, vegetables and melons from irrigated areas, fermented dairy foods, meat and seasonal fruit. Melons and other whole fruits contribute water, fibre and micronutrients; they are metabolically different from fruit-flavoured drinks or juices with added sugar.
Water scarcity and extreme heat make irrigation, storage and food loss central health issues. Supporting water-efficient horticulture and reliable cold chains can improve access to produce without ignoring environmental limits.
WHO's FEEDCities work in Ashgabat found fresh fruit and vegetables alongside pastries, prepared salads, doner kebabs, hamburgers and savoury snacks containing high levels of salt; some foods also raised concern about trans fats. This makes reformulation, vendor guidance and transparent nutrition information important alongside household advice.
WHO reported high consumption of sugary soft drinks and foods high in sugar and fat among primary-school children surveyed in 2015/2016. School water access, food standards, active play and restrictions on marketing can improve the environment without placing responsibility solely on children or parents.
Turkmenistan can connect oasis agriculture and traditional foods with stronger salt and trans-fat standards, healthier street food, reduced sugary-drink exposure and better detection and treatment of hypertension.
Kazakhstan • Kyrgyzstan • Uzbekistan • Tajikistan • Turkmenistan
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