Despite not being able to have a public award ceremony, Slowfood Saddleback has announced the recipients of its Snail of Approval for 2020.

“The Slow Food movement is an international organisation dedicated to protecting and encouraging Good, Clean and Fair Food for everyone,” says the local chapter’s leader, Celia Wade.

“At this very difficult time it is even more important that these things are protected and encouraged.

“Despite the arrival of the virus we had our entries in and it seemed a good idea to continue with the process.”

This year’s recipients include primary producers, food artisans, restaurants, cafes, caterers and a retailer.

All awardees follow the Slow Food principles and have a commitment to continue to grow their businesses in the areas of biodiversity and sustainability.

“We are all in this global emergency together and Slow Food Saddleback hopes that the Red Snail will make people smile, as it recognises the work of this vulnerable group. It gives them something to show and use in their own social media and traditional marketing when times get better.

“Slow Food Saddleback thanks and congratulates all our awardees, and along with the South Coast community wishes them all the best for the next few months and into the future.”

Celia says it puts these businesses in the same category as many in Europe and the US, where choices of where to eat and shop are often predicated by the Red Snail in the window.

Gerringong-based wholefood catering business, Dandelion & Mallow, is one of the recipients.

“My business is based on the philosophy that delicious, traditionally prepared food is the foundation for great health and overall wellbeing,” says Karina Shepherd.

“I believe that we humans thrive when connected with nature and other people who honour nature.”

And the Snails go to…
Primary producers
Buena Vista Farm, Gerringong
Haven Island Oysters, Greenwell Point
The Pines, Kiama
Dapto Community Farm
Bellevue Organics, Kiama
Pecora Dairy, Robertson
Moonacres Farm, Fitzroy Falls
Schottlander’s Wagyu, Rose Valley
Restaurants/cafés
The Blue Swimmer, Gerroa
Far Meadow Table, Far Meadow
Otis Deli, Kiama
Silica Restaurant, Kiama
Moonacres Harvest Kitchen, Robertson
Food artisans
Betty’s BBQ
Gung’s Gourmet Thai, Port Kembla
Valley Cheesemakers, Kangaroo Valley Retail food outlet
Flame Tree Community Coop,Thirroul
Caterer
Dandelion & Mallow, Gerringong