The Snail of Approval is Slow Food First Coast’s way of recognizing the food-related providers that are making significant contributions to the transformation of our food system to one that is good, clean, and fair.

It works like this. One has to be nominated by a member of Slow Food, and then chosen by a committee of members who review the contribution according to three standards: Quality, Authenticity, and Sustainability.

You can read more about the standards and the procedures used to select recipients on the Slow Food First Coast website www.slowfoodfirstcoast.com.
The website also offers a complete list of current farms and businesses that have already been awarded the Snail of Approval. These include Bistro de Leon, Johnny’s Kitchen, 29 South Restaurant, Kyle’s Seafood Market, and Currie Brothers Market.

Look for the Snail!
When you eat at a Snail of Approval restaurant or shop at a Snail of Approval store, Slow Food doesn’t benefit financially, but the food system benefits a great deal. You’re supporting local farmers and food artisans, sustainable agriculture, and humane treatment of animals. You’re helping to stop agricultural pollution, reduce greenhouse gases, and slow the loss of biodiversity. You’re ensuring the survival of endangered heirloom varietals, heritage breeds, and traditional foodways. So look for the Snail of Approval decal when you shop at these and other businesses.

Slow Food was founded to counteract the effects of fast food and fast life. The non-profit organization works to save disappearing food traditions and traditional food products, to help people rediscover the joys of eating, and to understand the importance of caring where food comes from, who makes it and how it’s made.

Slow Food believes that: the food we eat should taste good; it should be produced in a clean way that does not harm the environment, animal welfare or our health; food producers should receive fair compensation for their work; and that everyone should have access to good, clean, and fair food.