THE Ark of Taste aims to rediscover, catalogue, describe and publicise forgotten foods and flavours. It is a metaphorical recipient of excellent gastronomic products that are threatened by industrial standardisation, hygiene laws, the regulations of large-scale distribution and environmental damage.
Ark products range from the Italian valchiavenna goat to the American navajo-churro sheep, from the last indigenous Irish cattle breed, the kerry, to a unique variety of Greek fava beans grown only on the island of Santorini. All are endangered products that have real economic viability and commercial potential.
The Ark was created by Slow Food in 1996 and has identified more than 500 animal breeds, fruit and vegetable varieties, prepared foods and specific dishes, and offers a resource for those interested in sourcing and promoting quality foods.