Zero emission farms; the contribution of local farmers and producers to regional identity; opportunities to encourage urban gardening and; the importance of investigation and knowledge to boost innovation and sustainable development were just some of the topics discussed by over 25 representatives from IGCAT.
Attendees, including 11 candidate and awarded World/European Regions of Gastronomy took part in the 25th IGCAT Best Practices Platform Meeting, hosted by Trondheim-Trøndelag, European Region of Gastronomy 2022, on 25-28 July and had the opportunity to learn, exchange and develop ideas inspired by best practices developed in the region.
The World/European Region of Gastronomy Platform members were particularly impressed by the level of engagement of local stakeholders to the European Region of Gastronomy title and their pride in being ambassadors of the regional food culture. Creativity, innovation, passion, as well as a strive for quality and sustainability are clearly underpinning many of the initiatives visited.
Likewise, the dialogue and cooperation promoted by the European Region of Gastronomy 2022 title among the different actors in the territory are contributing to strengthening Trondheim-Trøndelag as a sustainable food destination – and a treasure trove for foodie travellers from across the globe!
Meetings and conversations were hosted and attended by different local stakeholders in the region, including: Øyna Cultural Landscape Hotel and Husfrua Guesthouse; Inderøy Mosteri; Mære Agricultural School and the Agricultural Climate and Energy Centre; Stiklestad National Cultural Centre; producers, farmers, as well as cultural and historical centres along the Golden Road; Gangstad Gårdsysteri; Inderøy Slaughterhouse and Surf Kombucha; Berg Farm and Inderøy Distillery; Coop; Urban Farm Leangen; SeeSalmon high-tech visitor centre; Speilsalen and Palmehaven restaurants at Britannia hotel; Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Food Forum; Trøndelag Food Festival and Brewery Festival; and To Rom og Kjøkken restaurant.
The meeting was organised with the support of the main stakeholders of Trondheim-Trøndelag, European Region of Gastronomy 2022: Municipality of Trondheim; Trøndelag County Authority; Innovation Norway; and Oi! Trøndersk Mat og Drikke.
About the World/European Regions of Gastronomy
Candidate and awarded World/European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; drive environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; support balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlight and support expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practises; and contribute to community health and well-being.
About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance to protect and promote distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguard our planet, health, wellness and local economies.
IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.
IGCAT founded the World/European Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Websites for Foodie Travelers Award and the international Food Film Menu.