Thailand celebrates local Cuisine with “The Lost Taste” initiative

The Department of Cultural Promotion (DCP) under the Ministry of Culture is continuing its “One Province, One Menu – Celebrating Local Cuisine” initiative into its second year, focusing on elevating local dishes as cultural heritage under the theme “The Lost Taste” for fiscal year 2024. ​

Thailand celebrates local Cuisine with “The Lost Taste” initiative. (Photo: pattayamail.com)

DCP Director-General Prasop Riangngoen emphasised the role of food as an essential element of cultural heritage, reflecting the diverse ways of life, history, and beliefs across Thailand's regions. This year’s initiative builds on the successful campaign of 2023, which saw significant participation and helped propel many local dishes to broader recognition, contributing positively to the food industry.

In 2024, the project will expand with collaborations across various sectors, including the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. These partnerships, which align with the national soft power strategy, are expected to help boost the income of local food entrepreneurs and support a creative economy.

The DCP has tasked provincial committees with selecting dishes that showcase historical depth, culinary uniqueness, and economic potential. The public will have a chance to vote on their favorite local dishes, with results to be announced this August.

The DCP also invites the public to celebrate Thai cuisine by voting for the “Thailand Best Local Food” logo, which will be featured in promotional materials and displayed at participating venues. Voting is open on www.facebook.com/DCP.culture from June 17 to 24./.

VNA