The dynamics of food regimes transformation: A study on alternative food networks in Turkey

The aim of this study is to present perspectives, processes and experiences beyond hegemonic ways of thinking which neoliberal food regime unfolds- through analyzing neoliberal food regime in terms of its rationality, rules, production and consumption models. Alternative food networks are discussed within this framework. Qualitative research is used on purpose of revealing the processes, governance, potentials and restrictions of alternative food networks. In-depth interviews are conducted with 24 participants involved in food communities/cooperatives/collectives and initiatives as part of the research sample. As a result of the study, food is re-conceptualized as being more than food not only with its political, social, cultural and ecological connotations but also a relational space in which such social values as participation, equality and solidarity could be reproduced. Building on social and ecological movements, alternative food networks develop ecological and social values within this time period. The subject of prosumer, volunteer labor, solidarity economies, community supported agriculture and participatory guarantee systems are unveiled and recontemplated through building processes of alternative food networks. Emerging on purpose of creating alternatives in the age of crisis and uncertainty, alternative food networks and the meanings they have as regards to the threshold to another food regime are discussed within the context of restrictions and potentials. Alternative food networks are considered as an ethical and critical standpoint based on practise against neoliberal food regime which reinforces social risks, anxieties and unequalities with corporatization, monopoly, depeasantization and consumers' difficulties in achieving healthy, good and fair food. Social and ecological values these networks create are anticipated to have significant potantials to suggest alternatives against current food regime. Key words: Food Regimes, Alternative Food Networks, Community Supportive Agriculture, Solidarity Economies