Mission Statement

To promote and advance the international slow foods movement in our region by encouraging a culture of farming, preparing, and serving local foods for intrinsic health, and environmental benefits.

Ozark Slow Food is a celebration of good, clean, and fair food. We believe that our food should be fresh, high quality and taste good; food should be produced in a clean way that does not harm the environment, animal well-being or human health; and that producers should receive a fair compensation for their work.

About The Slow Food Movement

The Slow Food Movement was founded on the idea of ecogastronomy. The concept of ecogastronomy is an alternative approach to consumption that focuses on the relationship between humans and food and the effect that’s produced by their interactions. It’s an awareness of the connections between plate and planet.

In the last 100 years, humans have focused more and more on the convenience of food. We’ve lost many of our traditional methods of agricultural and clean food production. Ozark Slow Foods believes that we should protect the diversity in our foods, including heirloom vegetable species and livestock breeds. The slow food method is vital as our food supply makes a turn toward more homogenized and standardized products.

The philosophy of slow food is focused on an increased awareness of and responsibility for our food intake, while placing an emphasis on enjoying the pleasures of the table and the sense of community. Our team at Ozark Slow Food respects those who make a conscious effort to preserve food traditions and the flavors of regional cooking. We’re passionate about the farmers and chefs that grow and prepare local foods.

While Ozark Slow Foods understands that supporting the local food system is essential, we also want to create an equitable global food system. Our team aims to understand and create an ethical diet that is environmentally sensible and socially responsible.

If you’re looking for more information about Ozark Slow Food or have questions, please contact us.

Board Members

All the Board members for Ozark Slow Food are volunteers.

Teresa Maurer

Jim Morgan

Quinn Montana

Pauline Thiessen