Slow Food Barbados is challenging Barbadians to eating only foods grown, caught, or raised in Barbados between September 5th – 11th, to raise awareness of the nutritional, economical, environmental and cultural benefits of eating locally sourced foods. This coincides with the 9th annual Caribbean Wellness Day on September 10th, 2016.

The Slow Seven Challenge aims to promote sustainable communities, healthy bodies and support local farmers and fishermen. Increasing the emphasis on locally sourced foods benefits our local economy, environment and community, and it can also be more nutritious.

By participating in this challenge, you will you be:

• Creating more demand for local food in Barbados, and in turn lowering our billion dollar food import bill;

• Learning about locally sourced, produced and caught food, as well as the people who make every plate of food possible;

• Sharing and connecting with a community of foodies in Barbados!

• Regenerating our local food systems and greater local prosperity.

If 7 days of only local food and drink seems too daunting, not to worry. It’s not an all-or-nothing challenge. The challenge is structured to encourage the beginners to join the very committed in this experience. The point is to experiment and increase awareness about the availability of locally produced foods and where to find them. Slow Food Barbados provides plenty of guidance, including a Buyer’s Guide to finding local products ranging from meats to cheeses to wines, along with daily recipes, markets and a list of local restaurants that are offering menu items that fit the Eat Local criteria.

Whether you want to try one locally sourced meal or take on the challenge of eating 100% Bajan for the week, you’re invited to be a part of the fun! There will be lots of prizes in store, recipes and community participation to help you along. Sign up to participate and you will receive an email with a FREE Barbados Buyer’s Guide (A list of local farmers, producers and fisherfolk), a suggested shopping list, participating restaurants and a resource with local recipes that you can try during the Slow Seven Challenge.