Revitalizing Indonesia’s Local Food Through the Slow Food Movement for a Sustainable Future

2.1 Food security

Food security is a multidimensional concept encompassing food availability, access, utilization, and stability. According to the FAO [2], food security exists when all individuals have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for a healthy life [2-5, 31]. These dimensions are interconnected and provide the basis for measurement. Government Regulation No.17 of 2015, based on Law No.18 of 2012 and the concept of Bapanas [32], defines food availability as sufficient supply at local, national, and global levels, influenced by production, distribution, and trade [33]. Yet, climate change and economic crises disrupt supply stability and heighten insecurity [34, 35]. In Indonesia, rice availability remains a primary indicator of food security, although diversity is equally important. Food access depends on income, prices, and social support [33, 36, 37], while food utilization involves processing, nutritional quality, and safety, with stunting and malnutrition as major concerns [38, 39]. Cultural approaches, including traditional foods, contribute to diversity and sustainability [40]. Stability emphasizes consistent access and availability over time to reduce the impact of external shocks [41].

Law No.18 of 2012 further frames food security as ensuring sufficient, safe, and nutritious food sustainably. Physical aspects, such as productivity and infrastructure, are crucial. A study in Jember’s Bedadung Irrigation Area showed irrigation’s role in yield stability [42]. Climate change, however, threatens crop patterns and productivity [43]. Non-physical aspects include policies on distribution, price stabilization, reserves, and market systems, vital to food sufficiency [33, 44]. Economically, food access is shaped by income and price fluctuations, with vulnerable groups most affected [45, 46]. Supportive agricultural policies can strengthen farmers’ welfare and food security [47]. Social factors such as education and gender roles are also vital [48]. Nutrition education strengthens household diets, while women play key roles in sustaining food systems [49, 50]. Soil degradation and resource depletion require sustainable land management and climate adaptation [43].

In Indonesia, food security is a cross-sectoral issue involving agriculture, environment, and social policy [12]. While domestic production and imports maintain supply, rice imports stabilize stocks but affect prices and farmers’ welfare [51, 52]. Diversification through local crops like sago and cassava can enhance self-sufficiency [53]. Yet, food access remains difficult for low-income groups [46]. Programs such as BPNT aim to improve access but struggle with distribution and targeting [54], while food utilization requires stronger local policy support [55].

Food security is further threatened by disasters and disruptions such as COVID-19, which pressured supply chains. The government responded with recovery policies, farmer support, and price stabilization [56]. Technology also plays a role in boosting productivity, distribution efficiency, and data-driven planning [57]. Ensuring sustainable food security requires diversification, stronger social programs, and technological applications. Collaboration among government, private sector, and communities is key to ensuring sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for all Indonesians.

2.2 Slow Food movement

Slow Food was founded in Italy in 1986 as a response to the rise of fast food and globalization, which threatened the diversity of local cuisines. Rooted in the principles of “good, clean, and fair,” the movement emphasizes food quality, environmental sustainability, and social justice. Initially emerging as a protest against a fast-food restaurant in Rome, Slow Food has since developed into a global movement committed to safeguarding culinary diversity and traditional farming practices [58]. Its philosophy promotes mindful living by valuing cultural preservation and sustainability [59]. Inspired by this approach, initiatives such as Cittaslow in Turkey encourage small towns to prioritize sustainability and community well-being. Slow Food also influences biodiversity conservation and sustainable tourism by promoting local foods, protecting rare varieties, and fostering slow tourism, which emphasizes authentic experiences and cultural connections [60].

The movement’s three guiding principles: good, clean, and fair, offer a paradigm shift in food systems [27]. “Good” underscores taste and quality while respecting tradition and diversity. Good food is not only enjoyable but also produced through methods that preserve biodiversity, reinforcing food as a cultural product [61]. “Clean” highlights sustainable production that protects ecosystems by reducing harmful chemicals and lowering the carbon footprint [62]. “Fair” stresses social justice by supporting producers, ensuring fair compensation, and reducing inequalities in food supply chains. Through festivals, campaigns, and educational programs, Slow Food integrates social, cultural, and ecological dimensions, providing holistic responses to food security, climate change, and inequality [27].

Despite its influence, Slow Food faces criticism. Some view it as overly nostalgic, idealizing the past while underestimating the complexity of modern food systems. Others argue its association with upscale culinary experiences creates exclusivity, limiting accessibility for broader communities [63]. Nevertheless, Slow Food remains a significant force in advocating for sustainability and culinary diversity. By strengthening education, supporting local producers, and organizing cultural events, it advances the vision of a fairer and more sustainable food system. In doing so, the movement provides an important alternative to the challenges posed by globalization and industrialized food systems [64].

Beyond its conceptual foundation, Slow Food must also be linked with the broader framework of food sovereignty. Food sovereignty emphasizes the right of communities to define their food systems, prioritize local production, and resist dependence on globalized industrial chains [65-67]. This aligns with Slow Food’s principles of “good, clean, and fair,” which advocate biodiversity protection, small-scale producer empowerment, and cultural preservation. In Indonesia, situating Slow Food within food sovereignty strengthens its theoretical grounding to challenge industrial agriculture and promote community-based alternatives.

The principles articulated by Petrini [68] provide the moral and political basis of the Slow Food movement, responding to the homogenization of food systems. Integrating ecological sustainability, social justice, and cultural heritage, Slow Food functions as both a gastronomic and political project. As Leitch [58] observes, food serves as a medium of identity and heritage, a perspective especially relevant in Indonesia, where local food traditions are increasingly displaced by fast-food culture. Thus, Slow Food is not only a tool for preserving culinary diversity but also a pathway to reinforce food sovereignty and support smallholder farmers.

Slow Food also represents an alternative knowledge system that prioritizes place-based practices over standardized industrial models [25]. Empirical research shows its role in enhancing sustainability through short food supply chains (SFSCs), producer empowerment, and biodiversity [69]. Yet its transformative potential remains uneven, often limited by accessibility and perceptions of elitism. For Indonesia, this duality highlights the importance of pairing heritage preservation with structural reforms in policy and markets to enable broader inclusivity. As illustrated in Figure 1, this conceptual framework underpins strategies for revitalizing local food systems in Indonesia.

Figure 1 illustrates the conceptual framework of the Slow Food approach to local food revitalization. The framework emphasizes three core principles: good, clean, and fair, that interact dynamically with food sovereignty, local identity, and sustainability goals. These dimensions are mutually reinforcing: the clean principle supports ecological resilience, the fair principle protects socio-economic rights of smallholder farmers, and the good principle upholds food quality and cultural identity. Together, they align closely with food sovereignty perspectives, which stress the right of communities to define their food systems and resist dependence on industrialized agriculture [65, 66]. This integrated framework demonstrates how Slow Food contributes simultaneously to biodiversity preservation, community empowerment, and food security in Indonesia.

Figure 1. Dimensions of good, clean and fair food systems

Source: A Slow Food approach to good, clean and fair food systems in the EU [70]

2.3 The interrelation of Slow Food and food security

A valuable theoretical lens for understanding the structural challenges of the Slow Food movement in contemporary society is provided by Virilio’s concept of dromology. The acceleration of modern life, evident in the rapid spread of fast-food culture and viral food trends, tends to diminish public appreciation for local and traditional food practices. Rather than positioning Virilio’s critique merely as an abstract philosophical reflection, it can be reframed as a practical framework to analyze the temporal and cultural pressures confronting Slow Food. The fast circulation of global food commodities, amplified by digital platforms and consumer demand for instant gratification, directly conflicts with the temporal ethics and sustainability values promoted by Slow Food. By linking Virilio’s notion of speed [71, 72] to the Indonesian context, this study underscores that Slow Food should be viewed not only as an alternative lifestyle movement but also as a counter-narrative to the political economy of acceleration that characterizes the global food system.

Slow Food plays a central role in advancing food security by strengthening local food systems, preserving biodiversity, empowering communities, and encouraging sustainable diets. By promoting local production and consumption, the movement reduces reliance on global supply chains and enhances resilience, particularly in times of crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Local food networks not only support environmentally friendly farming practices but also stimulate local economies [73]. Household gardens initiated by Slow Food, for instance, have been shown to improve dietary diversity at the household level [74].

Biodiversity preservation is a core principle, as it is vital for ecosystem health and climate resilience. Slow Food promotes the cultivation of local crops and traditional varieties to safeguard genetic diversity and sustain agroecological practices. Community engagement is equally important, fostering stronger producer–consumer relationships through education and culinary heritage appreciation. This strengthens economic resilience and social ties, while awareness of sustainable food choices improves health and environmental outcomes. Furthermore, Slow Food promotes diets such as the Mediterranean diet, which benefit both public health and ecological sustainability [75].

Agricultural biodiversity is reinforced through agroecology, maximizing local potential [76]. In Albania, this approach has enhanced food availability while preserving traditional knowledge [77]. In Brazil, supportive public policies have bolstered food security among small farmers. Adaptations of Slow Food also appear in diverse contexts: Cittaslow initiatives in Turkey focus on gastronomy, while in Iran the movement preserves culinary traditions and supports social-environmental sustainability [60]. Food festivals and community activities help raise awareness of sustainable consumption and reshape dietary patterns [59], while in tourism, Slow Food promotes culinary experiences that strengthen local economies and biodiversity [78].

On the production side, the movement advances sustainable agriculture, biodiversity preservation, and food sovereignty by reducing dependency on globalized supply chains [64]. Evidence from East Flores shows that local initiatives support food security through food source diversification and ecological resilience [79]. Support for small producers enhances community strength in times of crisis. In distribution, Slow Food prioritizes local networks that directly connect producers and consumers, thereby reducing waste, improving quality, and lessening reliance on industrial logistics [19, 80-83]. On the consumption side, it fosters healthy eating patterns, encourages local food use, and highlights the cultural and nutritional value of traditional foods [84, 85]. Educational programs further promote awareness of global sustainability impacts, cultivating more responsible consumer behavior [86]. Through its holistic framework of “good, clean, and fair” food, Slow Food provides a comprehensive model for achieving global food security in the face of contemporary challenges.

4.1 The potential of Slow Food in enhancing food security

4.1.1 Enhancing local food production

The Slow Food approach can support food security by strengthening local food production. This movement prioritizes sustainability, respect for local wisdom, and food quality, thereby making a significant contribution to building more resilient food systems [64, 91, 92]. Previous studies in Indonesia have shown that local wisdom can enhance food security. For example, in Ciptagelar Village, traditional farming practices have been proven to improve food availability more effectively than in non-indigenous areas such as Tonjong II Village. In addition, mapping local food potential, such as tubers in Muntilan District, helps support small-scale industry supply chains and facilitates supply chain management [93].

Effective supply chain management plays a crucial role in the distribution of local food [94]. Good planning and organization can improve productivity, product quality, and food accessibility [80]. By adopting Slow Food principles such as fair and sustainable distribution, the efficiency of shorter local food distribution times can be further optimized [91, 95]. In addition, community empowerment through food literacy intervention, training, and outreach is an important factor in enhancing food security [96, 97]. One example, in Kali Upa Village, training on the use of home gardens has increased community awareness of the importance of independent food production [98]. This aligns with the Slow Food approach, which encourages the optimal use of local resources.

The diversification of products based on local food ingredients is also an effective strategy to increase added value and food security [99]. For example, training in processing local products, such as making chips from local ingredients, not only helps meet nutritional needs but also increases community income [100-102]. Furthermore, strengthening social networks within communities plays an important role in supporting sustainable agriculture and food security [103, 104]. Studies show that social capital fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange to strengthen local food systems [79]. So, the Slow Food approach, which encompasses local wisdom, effective supply chain management, community empowerment, food diversification, and the strengthening of social capital, offers a comprehensive solution for enhancing local food production. With proper implementation, this approach can sustainably strengthen household and community food security.

4.1.2 Strengthening local food systems

The Slow Food Movement contributes to food security by reinforcing local food systems and embedding sustainability across production, distribution, and consumption. Its emphasis on local resources not only safeguards the environment and culture but also shifts people’s consumption patterns. By promoting local food products, the movement enhances food quality and strengthens local economies. Participation in Slow Food initiatives encourages communities to adopt healthier habits, develop shorter supply chains, and foster direct connections between producers and consumers [27, 64, 81, 105]. Beyond food security, local products also become a central attraction in sustainable tourism, generating added economic benefits [59].

Economically, the development of local food systems through Slow Food has been shown to produce stronger impacts compared to conventional food systems. Evidence from a farmers’ market study in Parma demonstrates local multipliers: community purchasing programs generated positive effects on regional GDP, while SFSCs contributed more value than longer ones [64, 81, 106-108]. Similarly, Cvijanović et al. [109] confirm that local food systems support social capital, innovation, and community welfare, while Shideler and Watson [110] highlight the economic value created through direct producer-consumer interactions.

Environmental sustainability is another core dimension. By encouraging cleaner and fairer consumption, Slow Food helps minimize the carbon footprint of long and complex supply chains [78]. Equally important, the movement works to preserve culinary traditions increasingly endangered by globalization and industrialization. As Broadway [111] emphasizes, maintaining these traditions is integral to protecting cultural identity.

Taken together, Slow Food’s approach: through shifts in consumption behavior, local economic strengthening, and environmental protection, presents a holistic pathway toward resilient and sustainable food systems. By addressing food security from economic, cultural, and ecological perspectives, the movement represents an effective model for Indonesia and beyond in responding to the challenges of global change.

4.1.3 Increasing farmers’ income

The Slow Food movement, with its various practices outlined above, has great potential to increase farmers’ income and strengthen food security through a sustainability-based approach and the promotion of local food [30, 64]. Guided by its core philosophy, Slow Food supports the production of high-quality food while upholding social justice [68]. This approach helps small-scale farmers, who are often marginalized by industrial agriculture systems, to secure more stable markets and sustain their economic livelihoods [60].

The movement strengthens direct relationships between farmers and consumers through initiatives such as farmers’ markets and community-supported agriculture. These direct connections not only shorten long distribution chains but also enable farmers to receive fairer prices for their products [82, 83, 112]. On the other hand, the study of Horvath et al. [113] shows that growing consumer attention to the quality and origin of food has created greater demand for local products, which directly and positively impacts farmers’ incomes. By focusing on local and traditional foods, Slow Food also contributes to the preservation of biodiversity, opening new opportunities for farmers to market products with high economic value [77]. In addition, education is a key element of this movement. Training programs focused on agroecological practices enable farmers to increase productivity while reducing production costs by lowering their dependence on expensive external inputs [114]. These practices not only improve farmers’ profit margins but also enhance efficiency and sustainability within the food system [97]. This approach creates a more inclusive and beneficial ecosystem for small-scale farmers while also enhancing food security at the community level.

The Slow Food movement also encourages added value through the processing and innovative marketing of local foods, thereby expanding markets and increasing farmers’ incomes [64]. This initiative aligns with broader sustainability goals, including healthier consumption patterns and the reduction of environmental impacts from the global food system [62]. By integrating these principles into policies and development programs, Slow Food can serve as an effective strategy for supporting local farmers and creating a fair and sustainable food system for all stakeholders.

4.1.4 Improving community access to healthy and nutritious food

The Slow Food approach can encourage increased community access to healthy and nutritious food through Food Gardens and Earth Market models, supporting nutritious and sustainable local production, which is a crucial element of food security. This movement emphasizes the importance of local and sustainable food production, as well as local wisdom in maintaining food diversification and availability [64, 99]. In line with what has been previously known, Slow Food can strengthen public awareness of the importance of consuming nutritious food through the promotion of "good, clean, and fair" food [68]. In the local context, the use of home gardens as a source of healthy food has shown positive results [115]. Research in Kali Upa Village found that the use of yards increases household access to diverse and nutritious food [98]. The strategy not only reduces dependence on external food sources but also enhances the sustainability of household food systems [116]. Alleva et al. [99] state that business diversification is also an effective strategy to support food security through the principles of Slow Food.

Another research shows that business diversification can reduce poverty and improve community access to various sources of local food [117]. Besides that, community empowerment programs that promote locally based food production can boost the local economy while supporting the sustainability and stability of the food system. Education and outreach to consumers and producers on the utilization of local resources also play a vital role in bringing about change towards healthy eating patterns and food security awareness. By increasing public knowledge on the processing and consumption of local food, Slow Food can encourage a shift toward healthier eating patterns. This aligns with findings showing that educational activities raise public awareness of the importance of household food security and safety [99].

The Slow Food movement has a global dimension that supports sustainability broadly by promoting biodiversity, preserving food traditions, and integrating with sustainable tourism, Slow Food creates a food system that is more resilient to climate change and economic crises [59, 60]. For instance, combining local food education with community-based tourism management can improve access to healthy food while simultaneously supporting the local economy [118]. Therefore, we can get the main picture that through a community and locally based approach, the Slow Food movement can address key food security challenges such as accessibility, sustainability, and food diversity [64, 99]. This positions Slow Food as a strategic tool for creating a more inclusive and sustainable food system while simultaneously enhancing overall community well-being.

4.2 Supporting and hindering factors

4.2.1 Internal and external factor analysis

The Slow Food movement, which focuses on food quality, sustainability, and strengthening the relationship between producers and consumers, faces various internal and external factors that influence its success. Growing public awareness of the importance of high-quality and sustainable food serves as a strong foundation for the movement’s success. Interest in local and sustainable food continues to rise, in line with the principles of Slow Food. Community participation in food festivals and culinary events that promote these principles strengthens local networks and enhances food security [86]. Support from stakeholders such as local producers and consumer communities, along with government policies that promote sustainable agriculture, also provides a significant boost to strengthening the Slow Food movement [119].

While Slow Food has the potential to strengthen local food systems, several obstacles still need to be overcome. Limited financial resources and organizational support remain major challenges in the development of this movement [120]. The media often portrays Slow Food as an exclusive movement with limited relevance to the general public, thereby reducing its appeal to a wider audience [121, 122]. Serdane et al. [123] studied found access barriers such as convenience, consistency of service, communication, and customer psychological factors, things that require improvements to the organizational and funding models. In addition, the dominance of fast food and ultra-processed foods (UPF), which offer lower prices and greater accessibility, often hinders efforts to strengthen the Slow Food movement as an effort to revitalize local food [124-126]. Furthermore, policies that give greater support to the fast food industry than to local agriculture contribute to these challenges [127]. External dynamics such as climate change and economic uncertainty also complicate the implementation of this movement. Climate change has been shown to disrupt agricultural production, while economic uncertainty limits public access to sustainable local food [128].

As a result, some members of the public perceive Slow Food as an initiative that is less relevant to their immediate needs. To ensure the success of the Slow Food movement, strategic efforts are needed that include strengthening local networks, increasing public awareness through broader literacy, active solidarity, and implementing policies and governance that support sustainability and the relevance of the movement in various contexts [82, 122, 129]. This aligns with the findings of Amo's [64] empirical study, which explored the Slow Food-place relationship in dairy communities in Abruzzo. The study highlighted the significance of local socio-economic embeddedness and the challenges in ensuring sustainability. With a comprehensive approach, Slow Food can enhance food security amid today’s complex global challenges.

4.2.2 Government policies that support or hinder the Slow Food movement

The Slow Food movement, rooted in sustainability and local food consumption, is strongly shaped by government policies, which may either facilitate or hinder its development. Supportive policies promoting local agriculture and sustainability have proven crucial to the movement’s success. For instance, the establishment of Slow Food committees across regions has increased public awareness of food sustainability and provided tangible support for farmers. The decentralized structure of Slow Food, with more than 1,300 local chapters (convivia/condotta), organizes workshops, farmers’ markets, and local product promotions, demonstrating strong grassroots engagement [27, 75, 122]. Internationally, the Slow Food movement in the USA [10] actively advocates inclusive and sustainable food policies related to land management, regional food systems, biodiversity, and traditional food preservation, reinforcing the movement’s relevance in policymaking. Shawki and Hunter [122] highlight how internal structures that prioritize inclusivity and responsiveness to social diversity both influence and are influenced by local policy frameworks. Complementary regulations, such as those promoting organic products and facilitating local market access, further enhance Slow Food’s competitiveness [130]. Educational programs also play a role, fostering consumer communities that value sustainability [119]. Tools like the “Slow Food Relationship Barometer” help policymakers evaluate links between local produce, food justice, and regulatory support [131].

In contrast, policies prioritizing mass production and efficiency often undermine Slow Food principles. Support for fast food industries and large-scale agriculture, particularly through subsidies and chemical-intensive farming, has historically weakened local food systems, as seen in post-World War II US policies [132-134]. Such frameworks marginalize small farmers who struggle to compete with cheap, mass-produced goods, while inadequate financial incentives discourage sustainable practices [111]. Moreover, efficiency-oriented policies frequently neglect culinary diversity and food quality, further eroding Slow Food’s position.

Community involvement remains a vital factor in enhancing the legitimacy of the movement. Studies show that local engagement, through food festivals, culinary tourism, or community farming, significantly strengthens support for Slow Food values [64, 135]. These activities not only build participation but also deepen community ties to sustainability principles [59, 80]. Conversely, limited education on Slow Food’s benefits may drive consumers toward fast food, which is often more affordable and accessible. Fader et al. [131] note that education and advocacy are essential to shaping consumer preferences and strengthening local product markets.

Ultimately, addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach involving government, local communities, and other stakeholders. Stronger policy alignment, inclusive education, and support for small-scale farmers are critical to ensuring that Slow Food can meaningfully contribute to sustainability, cultural preservation, and national food security.

4.2.3 Challenges in changing consumer behavior

The Slow Food movement seeks to encourage consumer behavior change toward more sustainable consumption patterns and support for local food systems [27]. In this process, the movement is supported by various factors but also faces significant obstacles. One of the main supporters of this movement is its emphasis on ethical consumption and local food systems that connect consumers with local producers [122]. The “good, clean, and fair” principles promoted by Slow Food align with the growing consumer concern for sustainability and ethically sourced food [136]. In addition, integration with sustainable tourism initiatives strengthens the link between local food practices and regional economic development, ultimately supporting food security [78]. The movement also has a strong educational component aimed at raising consumer awareness of the challenges of food production and the benefits of supporting local food systems. This education has been proven to help drive changes in consumption behavior [131].

Nevertheless, the Slow Food movement also faces various challenges. One of the biggest obstacles is the elitist perception often associated with it. With its focus on culinary tourism and high-quality food, the movement is often seen as accessible only to certain groups, thereby limiting participation from communities with lower purchasing power. In line with Zocchi et al. [25], who show the risk of cultural alienation and marginalization of traditional communities when food heritage is commodified by the elite. In addition, logistical and regulatory constraints, including technological barriers and regulations that restrict local producers’ access to wider markets, pose significant obstacles [137].

Competition with the fast food industry, which offers convenience and more affordable prices, further complicates efforts to shift consumer preferences. The fast-paced nature of modern lifestyles often makes it difficult for consumers to adopt the slower, more mindful consumption patterns promoted by the Slow Food movement. Despite facing many obstacles, Slow Food still holds great potential to contribute to global food security. By improving accessibility and understanding of its benefits, the movement can attract more consumers to support sustainable local food systems [27]. Its success largely depends on its ability to overcome perceptions of exclusivity, enhance education, and address existing logistical barriers.

4.2.4 Challenges for Slow Food in a fast-paced era

The Slow Food movement emerged as a form of resistance to the homogenization of global eating culture caused by the expansion of fast food industries. Founded on the principles of “good, clean, and fair” food, the movement emphasizes the preservation of traditional cuisines and sustainable agriculture while also promoting the broader philosophy of slow living, a concept that has extended into domains such as architecture and tourism [138]. Over time, Slow Food has developed into a transnational network active in more than 150 countries, creating connections between ethics and pleasure while resisting the dominance of accelerated lifestyles. Its strength lies in the ability of its networks, local and global, to reinforce cultural identity, mobilize political engagement, and articulate alternative strategies to mainstream food systems. Thus, Slow Food is not only a gastronomic initiative but also a form of social activism aimed at countering the acceleration of consumer culture.

However, technological developments in information and communication have generated what Virilio [139] describes as a “speed-space” society. Within his framework of dromology, speed is conceptualized not only as a technical phenomenon but as a political and cultural force shaping power, economy, and consciousness [134-137]. According to Virilio [139], the acceleration of communication and transportation induces panic modes and “dromological violence,” diminishing society’s ability to pause, reflect, and engage in meaningful decision-making. This acceleration also reshapes food consumption, fueling demand for fast, convenient products. McDonald’s capitalized on this dynamic early, and today similar tendencies are visible in the virality of culinary trends in Indonesia, such as Thai Tea, Mango Sticky Rice, Tteokbokki, Dalgona, Ramen, Takoyaki, Cheese Tea, and Thai Milk Bun. These products spread rapidly through social media, propelled by attractive visuals, popular culture narratives, and targeted digital marketing toward urban youth.

In the politics of speed, such culinary virality represents not only consumer preferences but also the manifestation of political-economic systems prioritizing efficiency, high mobility, and rapid information flows [138]. The phenomenon is intensified by Fear of Missing Out (FoMO), a psychological condition in which individuals feel compelled to share or consume popular trends to avoid social exclusion [140]. FoMO accelerates food trend adoption, making global products highly visible while crowding out the space for traditional or local foods rooted in Slow Food values.

Hsu’s analysis, as discussed by Sobreira et al. [27], highlights dual challenges for Slow Food in this context. First, modern society faces “time poverty” driven by three mechanisms: the significant time required for daily tasks, temporal disorganization, and temporal density. Southerton and Tomlinson [141] argue that Slow Food’s emphasis on cooking from scratch can exacerbate time pressures, particularly for those with heavy domestic responsibilities. Second, Slow Food’s rejection of time-saving devices such as microwaves may reduce flexibility in shared meal preparation, further complicating modern routines. Slow Food operates within societies increasingly governed by globalization and spectacle culture. This creates a paradox: although Slow Food advocates ethical, ecological, and community-based alternatives, it must still navigate communication, marketing, and distribution systems that operate within the logic of speed [27].

The Slow Food movement faces challenges in gaining mainstream acceptance amid accelerating lifestyles and aggressive fast-food marketing. Yet, this very tension provides a moment for reflection and resistance against the logic of speed in digital culture. Growing public fatigue toward the Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) phenomenon opens space to redefine “slowness” not as mere delay but as a conscious act of reflection, care, and locality. Rather than rejecting modernity, Slow Food represents a form of critical adaptation, translating its ethical principles into the digital era while reaffirming humanistic and sustainable values against global homogenization.

In sum, the challenge for Slow Food in a fast-paced era is not limited to opposing fast food products but lies in confronting the temporal structures, politics of acceleration, and FoMO logic embedded in modern society. From Virilio’s [139] perspective, Slow Food is compelled to engage directly with infrastructures of power defined by speed. It must also reconcile tensions between its core values and a social environment increasingly conditioned by immediacy, convenience, and constant acceleration.

4.3 Case study in Indonesia

4.3.1 Implementation of the Slow Food concept in several regions

The implementation of the Slow Food movement in Indonesia demonstrates great potential in supporting sustainability, preserving culinary heritage, and strengthening local communities. This movement promotes the principles of good, clean, and fair food, which align with biodiversity conservation and sustainable agricultural practices. In a country with a rich culinary tradition like Indonesia, Slow Food initiatives have created a positive impact through various approaches. The Slow Food movement has been growing in Indonesia since 2009 and continues to raise awareness about the quality of food, sustainability, and local wisdom, through initiatives such as javara.co.id and the Convivium community in Kemang. Barriers such as limited access and high prices are noted as key challenges. Another example of its implementation is the development of local farming communities that focus on producing organic and traditional foods. This aims to reduce dependence on unsustainable mass-produced products and to increase public appreciation for local food [27]. Pugra et al. [142] emphasize that traditional local foods such as tumpeng and lemang are not only good for consumption but also serve as symbols of social and cultural identity, making them crucial for cultural preservation amidst globalizations. Recommendations include incorporating traditional culinary education into school curricula and cultural festivals. Thus, Slow Food serves as a tool to strengthen local identity and enrich Indonesia’s culinary culture. In regions such as Bali and Yogyakarta, the implementation of Slow Food is integrated with sustainable tourism. Local cuisine festivals become platforms to promote traditional foods while educating the public on the importance of sustainability and cultural preservation [143-145]. In addition to showcasing local cuisine, these events strengthen the connections between farmers, chefs, and consumers, creating synergies that benefit local communities [131].

However, the implementation of Slow Food in Indonesia also faces significant barriers that limit its broader impact. One key obstacle is the perception of Slow Food as an elitist initiative, largely accessible only to middle and upper-class consumers, which restricts its relevance among lower-income groups [25]. Price competitiveness is another issue, as ultra-processed and fast-food products are often cheaper and more convenient than local sustainable alternatives [146]. While Slow Food offers a sustainable alternative, modern diets often prefer fast food. Policy misalignment also hinders progress, with government support still heavily directed toward industrial agriculture and mass food production rather than small-scale, community-based initiatives [122]. Public education is crucial to highlight the benefits of local food and risks of mass-produced products [142, 147]. Moreover, public awareness of the ecological and cultural value of local food remains low, making consumer education a critical but underdeveloped dimension. These barriers highlight that while Slow Food has the potential to strengthen food security and preserve cultural identity, its success in Indonesia will depend on addressing structural inequalities, reorienting policies, and expanding its accessibility across diverse socio-economic groups.

The Slow Food movement in Indonesia holds great potential to support environmental sustainability and preserve culinary heritage. Through collaboration among farmers, chefs, consumers, and government policy support, this movement can encourage communities to better appreciate local food and promote sustainable farming practices. Globally, local Slow Food communities (Convivium) play a role in food culture preservation, food education, and policy advocacy, a model that can be applied in Indonesia as a driver of social change towards a better future. As outlined in Official Slow Food website [114] and Slow Food Annual Report [10], this movement has a strong global network (2,000 groups in 160 countries), managed to communicate the relevance of the three pillars of Slow Food action: biodiversity, education, advocacy, to convey the diversity of food and people involved in the event, and of the global movement in general.

4.3.2 Promoting of the Slow Food concept in Indonesia

The implementation of the Slow Food concept in several regions of Indonesia aligns with the Slow Food Roadmap. Examples in Bali and Yogyakarta are presented in studies by Htet et al. [144], Zhang et al. [145], and Paramita [146], where Slow Food is integrated with sustainable tourism. It reflects the roadmap’s strategy of connecting producers and consumers through culinary festivals, the promotion of traditional markets, and the development of local culinary tourism. The Slow Food Roadmap outlines a comprehensive strategy to strengthen sustainable food systems through five pillars: community education, sustainable development, strengthening local supply chains, support for farmers, and stakeholder collaboration. Community education emphasizes Slow Food awareness campaigns, curriculum integration, and the promotion of agroecology and food diversity approaches that have been shown to foster long-term cultural shifts toward sustainable consumption [68]. By embedding these principles into educational systems, communities can cultivate biodiversity awareness and resilience against the homogenization of diets driven by industrialized agriculture. The remaining pillars focus on enabling systemic change through adaptive development, market access, producer empowerment, and collaborative governance.

Promoting success stories, fostering innovation, and conducting evaluations align with climate-smart agriculture principles that balance productivity with environmental resilience [148]. Initiatives such as farmer-to-consumer e-commerce, strengthening traditional markets, and developing local culinary tourism connect producers directly to consumers while preserving local heritage [149]. Stakeholder collaboration supported by incentives, policy frameworks, knowledge exchange, and continuous monitoring is essential for scaling these initiatives, as multi-level governance models have been proven to sustain complex, community-driven food systems [150].

The roadmap for revitalizing local Indonesian food through the Slow Food movement consists of five interrelated phases [25, 64, 81-83, 123, 134, 151, 152] (Figure 3). Phase 1 emphasizes introduction and community education by establishing Slow Food communities in pilot cities such as Bali and Yogyakarta. This stage highlights “place attachment” and participatory approaches, supported by food education through schools, festivals, campaigns, and integration with village tourism [25, 64, 81, 134]. Phase 2 focuses on supporting local farmers and producers by facilitating access to capital, training in agroecological techniques, and participatory certification (PGS) for smallholder farmers [152, 153]. Phase 3 strengthens local supply chains by developing SFSCs, farmers’ markets, cooperatives, and micro-logistics mapping. SFSCs play a vital role in sustainable food transition and the SDGs agenda [81]. At this stage, regional culinary products such as Mandai, Pindang, Se’i, Dadih, and Ketupat are curated to enhance market value and tourism [154-157]. Phase 4 involves multi-stakeholder collaboration, where government and non-governmental actors provide incentives, knowledge transfer, investment, and regulatory support to improve accessibility and fair pricing in local markets [80-83, 123]. Finally, Phase 5 prioritizes sustainable development by promoting best practices, encouraging adoption in other regions, fostering innovation, and conducting periodic evaluations to ensure long-term impact [151].

Figure 3. Roadmap for revitalizing Indonesia’s local food through the Slow Food movement for a sustainable future

Sources: Author’s compilation (2025)

For the Slow Food roadmap to be effective, measurable indicators must be applied at each phase. In Phase 1, engagement can be assessed by the number of Slow Food communities established and participants in food education programs. Phase 2 may be evaluated by the number of smallholder farmers adopting agroecological practices or obtaining participatory certification. Phase 3 can be measured through the expansion of SFSCs, sales volume at farmers’ markets, and the number of curated regional products distributed [158]. In Phase 4, indicators include the scale of multi-stakeholder collaborations, mobilized investment, and regulatory support, while Phase 5 focuses on long-term sustainability metrics such as reduced food imports, improved dietary diversity, and the integration of Slow Food principles into development plans [159].

Nevertheless, implementation faces challenges. Limited funding, the dominance of fast-food and ultra-processed products, and policy misalignments with industrial agriculture pose barriers. Weak coordination and inadequate monitoring may also reduce effectiveness. Addressing these requires adaptive governance, targeted subsidies for small producers, and inclusive education to broaden access. Tregear [160] emphasizes that developing a research agenda reflecting on local food networks and their integration into wider development strategies is crucial. Thus, combining clear metrics with recognition of challenges ensures the roadmap is both visionary and practical for revitalizing Indonesia’s local food systems.

4.3.3 Success factors and challenges

The implementation of Slow Food in Indonesia reflects both success factors and persistent challenges. As a movement that promotes local, sustainable, and high-quality food, it is increasingly relevant to strengthening food security and promoting healthier diets [27]. A key driver of success is rising public awareness of the health benefits and cultural value of local products. Nurhasan et al. [16] show that such awareness motivates consumer support. Initiatives promoting local food have also strengthened domestic markets and boosted international competitiveness, as seen in the halal food industry [161, 162].

Cultural diversity further supports Slow Food’s adoption. Indonesia’s rich culinary traditions provide fertile ground for integrating its principles into everyday life. Local food festivals have become effective platforms for community engagement and sustainability promotion [25, 27, 86]. Nonetheless, major challenges persist. Food waste remains poorly managed, undermining sustainability goals [163]. Economic barriers, including unstable food prices, reduce public access to quality food. Policy frameworks that emphasize quantity over quality have also slowed the movement’s progress [117]. Moreover, gaps in communication and education hinder wider understanding of Slow Food’s environmental and health benefits [164].

Effective implementation requires coordinated cross-sectoral collaboration. As highlighted by Wahbeh et al. [30], success depends on integrated policies, consumer education, and multi-stakeholder engagement. Active involvement from government, private sector, academia, civil society, NGOs, and media is critical to overcoming fragmented policy approaches. Such collaboration ensures better resource use and accelerates the transition toward sustainable food systems. Strategic actions, such as educational campaigns, food festivals, and sustainable infrastructure support, can thus be scaled more effectively to enhance national food security.

4.3.4 The need for multi-sector collaboration

In Indonesia, Slow Food is linked not only to sustainable and mindful consumption but also to food security and climate change adaptation. A key challenge arises from sectoral approaches that hinder policy integration and stakeholder coordination, producing fragmented solutions [165]. Addressing this requires an evidence-based action plan that reflects local realities, mobilizes cross-sectoral resources, and accelerates problem-solving within a sustainability framework [166].

Six main stakeholder groups hold strategic roles in advancing Slow Food’s impact. Government institutions are responsible for formulating supportive regulations; the private sector contributes innovation in sustainable supply chains; civil society promotes public awareness; NGOs facilitate advocacy and community assistance; academics provide research-based evidence; and mass media disseminate information to influence public opinion [167].

This multi-actor engagement aligns with collaborative governance, which emphasizes knowledge integration and social learning among stakeholders [165]. Such collaboration not only strengthens implementation but also fosters comprehensive, integrated solutions to food sustainability challenges. Moreover, cross-sectoral cooperation helps optimize resource use, minimize policy overlaps, and support the adaptation of food systems to environmental change. By doing so, Indonesia can move closer to realizing the long-term vision of sustainability.

Figure 4. Multi-stakeholder collaboration in addressing the Slow Food issue in Indonesia

Sources: Author’s elaboration (2025)

Figure 4 illustrates the collaboration model among stakeholders (local communities, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and academic institutions) in developing Slow Food initiatives. The model highlights that no single actor can achieve systemic change alone; rather, the success of Slow Food depends on collective action. Local communities play a central role by safeguarding food heritage and sustaining traditional practices. Governments provide enabling policies and infrastructure, NGOs act as advocates and facilitators, and universities contribute research, innovation, and knowledge dissemination. This multi-level governance approach underscores the importance of coordination, resource-sharing, and shared responsibility across sectors [160]. By fostering such synergies, the collaboration model ensures that Slow Food initiatives in Indonesia are both culturally grounded and institutionally supported.

4.3.5 Collaborative campaign for Slow Food Indonesia

Indonesia’s rich culinary diversity and abundant natural resources provide a strong foundation for advancing sustainable food systems, yet these strengths face growing pressures from industrialized food production, environmental degradation, and shifting consumption patterns. So that efforts to reconstruct locally based food systems are an urgent need [12, 168]. The Slow Food campaign emerges as a vital movement to counter these trends by promoting local, sustainable, and culturally rooted food practices that enhance food sovereignty and resilience. As global challenges such as climate change and market volatility threaten food security. Adopting these principles in Indonesia’s development agenda becomes increasingly urgent to protect biodiversity, strengthen local economies, and safeguard the nation’s culinary heritage for future generations [34, 81, 82].

The Collaborative Campaign for Slow Food Indonesia promotes the revitalization of local food systems through sustainable, equitable, and culturally rooted practices aligned with Slow Food principles (Figure 5). It aims to integrate these principles into local and regional policies, embedding sustainability, food sovereignty, and culinary heritage into formal planning frameworks. This is in line with the first Indonesia Food Systems Summit Dialogues was implemented on April 27th, 2021, which designed a food system transformation framework through a cross-sectoral, inclusive, and localized approach. This could be an appropriate strategy for integrating Slow Food principles into national and regional policies [12, 169]. By advancing sustainable production and consumption and fostering stakeholder collaboration, the initiative seeks to strengthen community resilience [170].

The framework emphasizes multi-sectoral engagement, involving government, private enterprises, NGOs, academia, and local producers. The government provides policy and regulatory support, the private sector ensures ethical supply chains, NGOs mobilize communities, academia contributes research and monitoring, and producers preserve biodiversity while implementing sustainable practices. Such collaboration addresses the complexity of food system transformation [162, 163].

In addition, strategically, this campaign focuses on policy integration, collaborative platforms, community engagement, and monitoring. Policies embed Slow Food into development agendas with incentives for sustainable agriculture. Collaborative platforms enable policy co-design and shared resources, while community engagement uses events and education to raise awareness. Monitoring ensures adaptive management, leading to improved food sovereignty, reduced dependence on imports, resilience to climate change, and preservation of culinary heritage [164, 165].

Based on the image above, the collaborative campaign for Slow Food Indonesia to be internalized in the Regional Development Plan begins with several stages, namely the first and second stages are building mutual understanding and commitment. These two stages have the same goal, namely, the stage of mutually explaining the objectives of each stakeholder, followed by accommodating the commitment of all stakeholders in making efforts related to the implementation of the Slow Food movement. The next goal is also to provide a framework for all stakeholders to collaborate in building sustainable food security through this movement. The third and fourth stages are agreement and design, in addition to reaching an agreement, at the design stage all stakeholders can provide input for development in Indonesia, starting from the city/district level to the provincial and national levels, through the integration of the design into medium-term strategic planning plans such as the Regional Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMD) and directed work plans such as the Regional Government Work Plan (RKPD).

Figure 5. Collaborative campaign for Slow Food Indonesia

Sources: Author’s elaboration (2025)