Are you a responsible traveler wondering how to effectively support local economies while traveling? Epicure & Culture caught up with Richard McCarthy, executive director of Slow Food USA, to learn some delicious ways to do this on the road.
1. How and why was Slow Food founded?
Slow Food was founded in Italy in 1986 by Carlo Petrini and fellow activists. The group staged a protest against the opening of a McDonald’s at the Spanish Steps in Rome.
Their goal was to protect local food culture from homogenization, promote the joy of eating, and celebrate a slower pace of life.
In 1989, Slow Food went international. The U.S. chapter, Slow Food USA, launched in 2000.
2. What is the mission of Slow Food USA?
Slow Food USA is part of a global movement active in 150 countries. The mission is to support food that is good, clean, and fair for all.
The organization aims to preserve local foods and traditions. It also supports farmers, ranchers, fishers, food workers, and producers.
3. How does slow eating when traveling help support local economies?
Travelers increasingly want local, authentic experiences over typical tourist stops. Eating locally helps connect with the community and supports small businesses.
Instead of eating breakfast in your hotel, ask where locals go for coffee. Try street vendors or fruit stands for a more immersive—and tasty—experience.
Small, locally owned restaurants often buy ingredients nearby. This supports local farms, lowers transport emissions, and ensures fresher food.
Pro tip: Find out what’s in season at your destination, and order that!
4. What are some rules travelers can live by to ensure a more slow food-focused trip?
a) Eat seasonally and ask questions. Craving mangoes in the Caribbean? Check if they’re in season. If not, skip them—they were likely shipped in.
b) Go where locals eat. You’ll find more authentic food, better prices, and a chance to connect with the community.
c) Limit meat consumption. This isn’t about going vegetarian—it’s about being mindful of sourcing and the environmental impact of large-scale meat production.
5. How can travelers put these rules into practice and ensure they’re supporting local economies when they’re eating?
a) Look around and eat where the locals do. Skip restaurants offering clearly non-local items (like bagels in Bangkok).
b) Check out Slow Food’s Ark of Taste. It lists culturally important foods at risk of disappearing.
These foods are cataloged by country and include fruits, cheeses, breads, and more. Supporting them helps protect food traditions and biodiversity.
c) Visit farmers’ markets when possible. They’re a great way to buy local, learn about the culture, and meet the people behind your food.
Ask questions about unfamiliar ingredients—it’s a great way to start conversations and learn how locals cook.
d) Try a home-hosted meal with services like EatWith or Feastly. They offer authentic experiences and the chance to build connections through food.
6. What are some common harmful eating practices travelers take part in that hurt local economies?
Eating at chain restaurants. Choosing out-of-season or imported produce. Consuming endangered species.
7. What is a lesser-known fact about eating while traveling that travelers may not be aware of?
Over 75% of the world’s edible plant varieties have been lost. In the U.S., it’s 95%.
Protecting biodiversity starts with what’s on your plate. Learning about local food production helps you make eco-conscious choices while supporting the economy.
8. If you could tell travelers who want to support local economies three things they should be aware of when eating on the road, what would they be?
a) Leave your hotel for meals. Food is one of the best ways to connect with a destination’s culture and history.
b) Ask locals where to eat.
c) Eat what’s in season.
