THE IMPORTANCE OF TRADITIONAL AND REGIONAL FOOD PRODUCTS IN CULINARY TOURISM OF THE PODKARPACKIE PROVINCE

Abstract

Purpose. To present the issues related to the culinary traditions of the Podkarpackie Province and the importance of traditional and regional products in the development of cultural culinary tourism. The purpose of this study is also to demonstrate the results on preferences of residents of selected towns and villages in the Podkarpackie Province regarding the purchase and consumption of traditional products. Method. The study is based on the review of information and views included in specialized literature, research surveys among the residents of the Podkarpackie Province, and the author’s own field observations. Findings. The importance of traditional and regional food products in the development of cultural culinary tourism in the Podkarpackie Province is characterized in the study. It shows the level of residents’ knowledge on the investigated area in the field of culinary heritage of the region, and the preferences in terms of purchase and consumption of traditional products. Research and conclusion limitations. Restrictions may result from an incomplete review of source materials and a relatively small number of respondents involved in the research. Practical implications. The study is significant for tourists interested in exploring and learning about traditional and regional food products, for manufacturers of high-quality foods, as well as local authorities interested in achieving additional revenues and in promotion of the region. Originality. In the subject literature, there is a lack of studies containing the results of research concerning the Podkarpackie Province residents’ preferences in terms of the undertaken issues. Type of paper. Review and research study.