Wadden gastronomy: local food with a story to tell
Can you taste the Wadden Sea? For Anke Arts, researcher at NHL Stenden's European Tourism Futures Institute (ETFI), the answer is crystal clear: "What lands on your plate tells you exactly where you are." Together with ETFI colleagues and Ernst Jonker from the Academy of International Hospitality Research (AIHR), she's exploring how food can enhance the experience of the Wadden Sea region as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's where local produce, storytelling, and sustainable choices come together beautifully. On 18th June, Sustainable Gastronomy Day, this research couldn't be more relevant.
"In the Wadden region, you cook with what grows, blooms, and thrives here," Anke explains. "In a way that fits the landscape, nature, and community." It's precisely this philosophy that drives her research into how food can enrich the experience of the Wadden Sea as a World Heritage destination.
Sustainable eating with regional roots
The Wadden region stretches across the northern Netherlands, from islands to coastline. Everywhere you'll discover unique flavours and traditions. How do you keep these alive whilst moving with the times? "Sustainable eating doesn't have to be complicated or expensive," says Anke. "It simply starts with choosing local and seasonal. That way, you're supporting nature, the regional economy, and the people who call this place home."
Three ways Wadden gastronomy makes a real difference
1. Food that tells you where you are
Local specialities appear in restaurants, markets, and food trails. So you can literally taste the place you're visiting. "From sea beans to grass-fed beef," says Anke. "Every ingredient has a story behind it."
2. Young talent meets old traditions
The project encourages young food entrepreneurs to start their businesses right here in the region. They blend innovative ideas with local ingredients, keeping the area vibrant and thriving. By involving students in various projects, there's a natural connection to these emerging local food businesses.
3. Slow tourism with real flavour
There are now fifty food routes for walkers and cyclists, taking you past local farmers, artisan bakers, and hidden gems. Perfect for those who want to slow down and truly experience a place through its food.
Food that opens your eyes
Wadden gastronomy is more than just delicious food. It's about learning and discovery for everyone involved. Anke explains: "We work with local producers, restaurants, local councils, and universities. We also collaborate with culinary students who focus on authentic regional cooking. It's in this blend of perspectives that the best ideas emerge - creating a food system that truly belongs to this region and is built to last."
Want to know more?
Curious about the Wadden gastronomy project or other exciting developments in sustainable tourism? Get in touch with Anke Arts at anke.arts@nhlstenden.com or Ernst Jonker at ernst.jonker@nhlstenden.com.
