A new project launched by the 'Edible Geography' blog, the Center for Genomic Gastronomy and the Finnish Cultural Institute, offers customers a taste of its smog-infused desserts as a means of sparking conversation about global population. Smog currently kills an estimated seven million people worldwide, and the project is designed to help raise awareness about the severity of the issue.
To promote conversation, the team put together a line of edible meringue cookies distilled from the smog of different cities around the world. The team then set up a food cart at New York's New Museum and offered customers a taste of its smog-infused desserts. Attendees had the opportunity to taste the custom cookies made from flavors such as 'Atlanta-Style Biogenic Photochemical Smog' and 'London-Style Pea-Souper Smog.'
Though the project may seem extreme, the team wants urban dwellers to begin thinking more about the air they are breathing. So if you find yourself asking if such cookies are safe to eat, it may be time to think about whether the air around us is safe to breathe.
Smog-Infused Desserts
This New Initiative Offers Edible Treats Inspired by Urban Pollution Issues
Trend Themes
1. Smog-infused Desserts - This trend explores the use of urban pollution as an inspiration for edible treats, sparking conversations about global population and air quality.
2. Awareness Through Food - This trend uses food as a medium to raise awareness about societal issues like air pollution and its effects on health.
3. Interactive Dining Experience - This trend offers a unique dining experience where customers can taste desserts made from the smog of different cities, encouraging dialogue and reflection.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - The food and beverage industry can tap into the trend by creating innovative products or experiences that bring attention to environmental and health issues.
2. Environmental Organizations - Environmental organizations can leverage this trend to engage with the public, raise awareness about pollution, and advocate for positive change in air quality.
3. Health and Wellness - The health and wellness industry can explore this trend as an opportunity to educate consumers about the impact of air pollution on health and to promote products or services that help reduce exposure.