S
pain's foods are surging in popularity in the
U.S. as consumers have learned to appreciate
the country's authentic, artisanal culinary
traditions in product categories ranging from Jamon
(hams) and cheeses to olives, extra virgin olive oils,
wines, tinned fish, and confections.
Against that backdrop, Spain is the
partner country sponsor for the 2024 Summer
Fancy Food Show.
Spain's diverse environments—microclimates—
ranging from the subtropical climates of the Canary
Islands to the Mediterranean climate of Andalusia
and the mountains of the Pyrenees—provide
conditions well-suited to the production of a variety
of food products. In addition, the country's position
at the crossroads of several different cultures,
from ancient Roman and Phoenician influences to
borrowings from Jewish and Moorish traditions,
have combined into Spain's rich culinary tradition.
Thanks to the growing popularity of Spanish
cuisine and the influence of several acclaimed
chefs from Spain, U.S. consumers are more aware
than ever that Spain is a country of modern-day
artisans who produce products that meet demands
for quality and authenticity. Foods that come to
the U.S. straight from Spanish farms include Jamon
Serrano, Jamon Ibérico, chorizo, cheeses such
as Manchego, Mahon Menorca, Murcia al Vino,
Arzua Ulloa, and many others.
There are many specialty food importers
bringing in Spain's bounty, including Catalan
Gourmet, Culinary Collective, Despaña, Demedici,
Markys, Khayan, Gourmet Foods International
and Forever Cheese, to name a few. Forever Cheese
was recently named a Supplier All-Star by Whole
Foods Market.
Spain's leading exports to the U.S. include
olive oil, wine, olives and peppers, confectionery
Spain's Rich Food Heritage on
Display at Summer Fancy Food Show
Authentic, artisanal products include on-trend meats,
cheeses, seafood, and more.
BY MARK HAMSTRA
PHOTOS: ICEX SPAIN TRADE
AND INVESTMENT
50 SPECIALTY FOOD SPECIALTYFOOD.COM
