The 40th edition of Fira Alimentaria began on Monday 25 April 2016 in Barcelona where the European Region of Gastronomy platform was well represented in the Alimentaria Experience Hall at a significant stand hosted by Catalonia, European Region of Gastronomy 2016 (C’REG) and with representatives from Aarhus, European Region of Gastronomy 2017.
The stand included a number of show cooking demonstrations by chefs on behalf of farmers and producers introducing new recipes that have been made using local products. The attendees could also learn more about the European Region of Gastronomy principles, aims and its benefits for all the regions in Europe.
On Tuesday 26 April 2016, Catalonia, European Region of Gastronomy 2016 also hosted a seminar in one of the conferences rooms, generating high media attention. The presentation was introduced by Carme Gasull, Coordinator of C’REG16 and followed by Jordi Baiget, Councillor of Industry and Knowledge of Catalonia, Josep Lluis Bonet, President of Fira Alimentaria, Carme Ruscalleda, Michelin Starred Chef and Ambassador of Catalonia, European Region of Gastronomy 2016 and Meritxell Serret, Councillor of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food of Catalonia. Collectively, they highlighted the importance and benefits of being awarded the European Region of Gastronomy title, noting that the award has enhanced collaboration and coordination between different public sector departments such as Agriculture and Tourism. The benefit of these collaborations can be seen in the linkage of local products, food, territory and cuisine.
The European Region of Gastronomy Platform and Award aim to contribute to better quality of life in European regions, by highlighting distinctive food cultures, educating for better health and sustainability and stimulating gastronomic innovation. IGCAT (International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism) organises the award with the support of European institutions.
IGCAT (International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism) is an international network of experts from gastronomy, culture, art and tourism and other sectors who have an interest in the exciting areas to be developed when there is a convergence between these sectors. Together with its global network of experts, the IGCAT secretariat conducts research, develops projects and organise events related to this confluence and is particularly focused on how it may be used in regional and local development.
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