Food in Slow Tourism: The Creation of Experiences Based on the Origin of Products Sold at Mercat del Lleó (Girona)

Abstract

Previous studies have highlighted the role of local food as a source of destination differentiation and tourist motivation, and as part of the understanding of slow food tourism. However, few previous researchers have discussed the proximity degree of products delivered in food tourism spaces such as markets, and how they contribute to the creation of slow tourism experiences. Based on the analysis of the origin of fruits and vegetables being sold at Mercat del Lleó, the municipal market of Girona (Catalonia, Spain), this paper investigates the value of local supply in an urban food tourism system. Fieldwork included nine interviews with market vendors, and data regarding 301 fruits and vegetables sold at the market were obtained. While results show a wide representation of local and regional produce, fruits and vegetables of national and international origin predominate over proximity products. The article reveals that there is still potential to improve the relationships between local food, identity promotion, and the sustainable experiences that attract slow tourists to urban destinations.