Balderas-Cejudo, A., Iruretagoyena, M., Alonso, L., Church, M., Izquierdo, L., Hill, I., & Larson, K. (2025). Gastronomy and Beyond: A collaborative Initiative for Rethinking Food’s Role in Society, Sustainability, and Territory. International Journal of Gastronomy and Food Science, 101118.

Abstract

Gastronomy has evolved into a multifaceted phenomenon and emerging academic discipline that extends beyond food and enjoyment, intertwining with culture, sustainability, territory, tradition, and ethical consciousness. This paper explores the findings of Gastronomy and Beyond (G + B), a collaborative initiative led by MIT City Science, in partnership with MIT, RCC Harvard, and the Basque Culinary Center. Designed as a collaborative initiative for interdisciplinary dialogue, G + B seeks to broaden the understanding of gastronomy's role in addressing critical global challenges and explore the wider dimensions of gastronomy.

Spanning two phases from late 2023 to mid-2024, G + B features eight videos and nine expert contributions, culminating in a final event in June 2024. The initiative brings together distinguished experts, including Michelin-starred chefs Eneko Atxa (five Michelin stars, three for his flagship restaurant Azurmendi), Elena Arzak (three stars), Diego Sandoval - Sandoval Family- (two stars), and Álvaro Garrido (one star); prominent academics and institution leaders such as Joxe Mari Aizega, Director of the Basque Culinary Center, Kent Larson, Director of MIT City Science, and Dr. Pia Sorensen, Senior Preceptor at Harvard; as well as influential restaurant owners like Luciana Bianchi's Muyu, recognized in the Fifty Best of the World. They share insights on critical topics and contribute their work, innovative practices, and personal experiences.

The results highlight four key themes that emerged from in depth interviews: Sustainability and Circular Practices, Territory and Cultural Identity, Community Engagement and Social Impact, and Innovation and Interdisciplinary Approaches. By offering a broader perspective on the interconnectedness of food systems, Gastronomy and Beyond aims to raise awareness and inspire the gastronomy sector to actively seek beyond and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and socially conscious future. Gastronomy is more than just food; it transcends culinary boundaries. And understanding and expanding its dimensions is essential.