International Ark of Taste
The Ark of Taste is a living catalog of delicious and distinctive global foods facing extinction. By identifying and championing these foods, we keep them in production and on our plates.
Agricultural biodiversity and small–scale, family-based food production systems are in danger throughout the world due to industrialization, genetic erosion, changing consumption patterns, climate change, the abandonment of rural areas, migration, and conflict.
The Ark of Taste invites everybody to take action: In some cases, products need to be rediscovered and put back on the table, and producers need to be supported and to have their stories told; in others, such as the case of endangered wild species, it might be better to eat less or none of them in order to preserve them and favor their reproduction.
USA Ark of Taste
Since 1996, more than 3,500 products from over 150 countries have been added to the International Ark of Taste. Over 200 of these foods are from the USA, and we are always seeking more edible treasures to include.
Nominated for a 2024 James Beard Foundation award, The Ark of Taste book features the stories of how some of these American products almost didn’t reach our table, with recipes from Slow Food chefs and profiles of growers from around the country.
Arizona Ark of Taste Foods
Arizona Ark of Taste Foods
Cholla Cactus Flower Buds
Ciolim (Tohono O’odham) or Hanam (Akimel O’odham)
Chiltepin Chile Pepper
Navajo Churro Sheep
Yellow Meat Watermelon
Black Sphinx Dates
Greenthread Tea
