10 March 2023 – The recently launched Taste Savo network represents a powerful legacy of Kuopio’s European Region of Gastronomy 2020-21 title, and reinforces the region’s commitment to supporting local quality and sustainable food.
The Taste Savo network gathers producers, restaurants, businesses, associations, education institutions and developers operating in the local tourism and food industry, under a common brand. The main goals of the initiative include: promoting the use of local ingredients; increasing the recognition and appreciation of the food produced in the area; building pride in the regional culinary heritage; as well as developing the sector’s operations in a responsible and sustainable way.
Built on a solid base of stakeholders involved in the European Region of Gastronomy 2020-21 project, the Taste Savo network has already been joined by more than 30 like-minded operators. Authenticity, cooperation and responsibility are the underlying values of this initiative that will bring increased visibility to the region by combining the resources of all participating actors.
Food expertise and products from the region will be jointly marketed under the Taste Savo brand to raise consumers’ awareness of local ingredients and food culture. The members of the network will be provided the Taste Savo’s badge that includes the Kuopio, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2020-21 logo. The brand will be found in many different events in the future network’s agenda, such as food competitions, street food events, joint trade fair trips and pop-up stores.
Furthermore, the Taste Savo network enables its members to acquire and share up-to-date information about trainings, projects, events and study tours in the field, as well as possibilities for peer support. Cooperation with networks and organisations beyond the region will also open up opportunities for larger projects both in Finland and abroad.
The activities of the network are coordinated by the Eastern Finland Rural Women’s Advisory Organisation in cooperation with a committee of Taste Savo network’s members.
About the European/World 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.