Today's Edition
ALLAN JACOB (DUBAI) - It’s normal to be concerned about the environment while smacking your lips in anticipation of what COP28 has to offer for the gastronome and the budget foodie. Head to the many green and organic restaurants lining the boulevards of Expo City Dubai where COP28 is being staged under the UAE’s Presidency.
The UAE is making food leaner, greener and healthier at the event this year and has roped in the cream of organic and niche restaurants who are committed to curbing food waste in line with the country’s policy of saving food and making the shift from copious consumption to careful consumption.
Sustainable living goes hand in hand with sustainable eating, believes the COP28 Presidency that is sparing no effort to make the culinary experience both nourishing and enlightening for those seeking epicurean delights and those on a budget for wholesome food.
It’s not climate enthusiasts but also the masses who have been invited to savour the diverse fare that is being dished out at COP28. “We aim to ensure that 50% of the food is served within sustainable limits for carbon and water intensity and is within UAE nutritional guidelines,” said the COP28 Presidency.
Two weeks ago, Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister for Climate Change and Environment and COP28 Food Systems Lead, said the UAE would cut food waste by 50%.
For the record, 250,000 meals will be served to 70,000 people from 70 food and beverage outlets during the two-week event. Organisers are working closely with local and regional suppliers to get the green balance right, and this is seen in the spread on offer by these restaurants.
One such food catering outlet is Gates Hospitality that has opened eight restaurants at the venue and is scaling up sustainability in its food business. The objective is to minimise waste, provide sustainable packaging, source local/regional produce, and recycle where possible; demonstrating that climate-conscious catering can be achieved on a large scale.
“We believe in the power of gastronomy to create memorable experiences, and our commitment to sustainability aligns seamlessly with COP28's vision,” said Naim Maadad, Chief Executive & Founder of Gates Hospitality.
“Climate-conscious catering can be both impactful and enjoyable on a large scale. We look forward to showcasing the culinary richness of our homegrown concepts alongside international favourites, providing an authentic and premium culinary experience for all attendees,” he added.
Aletihad experienced some of the delicacies on offer and was impressed with the myriad flavours and attention to detail.
There are plenty of options for those who prefer vegan – two-thirds of the menus are vegan or vegetarian – but meat-lovers won’t be disappointed with several restaurants catering to their palates.
In keeping with the COP28 theme, we took the green path and tried the Neat Burger from one of the food carts. The plant-based patty was… well… satisfying.
