UK Ark of Taste and Presidia Projects
The UK Ark of Taste is a catalogue of exceptional gastronomic products in danger of disappearing due to current food production and distribution systems. It is part of the network of Arks that make up the International Ark of Taste where, thanks to the contribution of experts and collaborators around the world, there are more than 700 products from 30 countries.
Presidia are an extension of the Slow Food Ark. A presidium is a local project which focuses on a group of producers of a single product. They work together to develop production and marketing techniques to allow their work to be economically viable.
Examples include Artisan Somerset Cheddar made in the traditional way and with unpasteurised milk, and Three Counties Perry, until recently a little-known drink, which has been made principally in Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire for centuries. Other UK products are listed on the UK Ark site.
Slow Food UK is working with our local groups and British producers to preserve and support this vital part of our food heritage, raising awareness of these amazing foods and educating the public about their taste, history and importance to our overall food biodiversity.
We are currently working to broaden the Ark of Taste and Presidia to offer a more representative spread of products with an increasing focus on Wales and Scotland.
The list of UK Ark products, UK Presidia and further information about the Ark, can be found on the UK Ark website www.slowfoodark.com
