Kesennuma Declares Itself a 'Slow Food City'

Kesennuma City, Miyagi Prefecture, declared itself Japan's first "Slow Food City" on March 18, 2003. Kesennuma's citizens enjoy fresh food grown in the rich natural environment that surrounds them-the mountains and sea with deeply indented coastlines-and they have created many traditional local dishes and maintained their food culture over the ages. Finding that joint activities related to food were increasing among the citizens, organizations, businesses and the local government, the city made the decision to declare itself a "slow food city," (in contrast to "fast food," which is often criticized for its lack of nutrition and culture).

The declaration states that the city will "create a more unique and attractive community sustained by rich variety of local food while conserving nature and culture," and includes the following principles:

(1) We will protect the local natural environment-the sea, mountains and rivers that bless us with food-so that we may leave it in good condition for the next generation.
(2) We will cherish, use, and provide traditional foodstuffs, recipes, and fine quality foods and drinks that have been nurtured in the local climate and culture.
(3) We will protect and train producers who can provide safe, reliable, and high quality foodstuffs.
(4) We will share the joy of food, the importance of a sense of taste, and the true richness of the spirit with others, including our children.
(5) We will respect the diversity of foods beyond the boundaries of region, country and beliefs, strive to deepen mutual understanding through communication, and eventually contribute to world peace.

With the spirit of the "slow food movement" as stated in the declaration, Kesennuma City intends to work on community-building through raising citizen awareness and collaborating with businesses.



Posted: 2003/05/23 09:27:05 AM
Japanese version