Italia-Croatia

The digital tool, available at testeat.eu, is an innovative online platform developed as part of the European project.

This digital tool was co-created by the lead agency AZRRI (Istrian Agency for Rural Development) with the scientific and academic support of the Juraj Dobrila University of Pula (UNIPU) and the Ca’ Foscari University of Venice (UNIVE).

The following section describes in detail the functioning, purpose and value of this tool:

1. Main objective

The tool was created to support operators in the tourism and catering sectors (chefs, restaurateurs, destination managers, students) in creating an innovative and contemporary tourism offering. It responds directly to the habits and needs of contemporary consumers and tourists, who are increasingly seeking an authentic experience that is mindful of wellbeing, sustainability and specific dietary choices.

2. Key function: inclusive adaptation of recipes

At the heart of the platform is a catalogue/collection of traditional recipes from the Italian and Croatian regions involved in the project. The true innovation of the tool lies in demonstrating how these historic recipes can be reimagined and adapted to meet specific dietary requirements, without, however, distorting or losing the identity and gastronomic culture of the region of origin.

The system includes variations and solutions for:

• Gluten-free (for coeliacs or those with gluten intolerance)
• Lactose-free (for those with lactose intolerance)
• Low glycaemic index (suitable for diabetics or those following controlled diets)
• Vegetarian and Vegan (for those who exclude animal products)

3. Innovation and sustainability for the local area

As well as being an inclusive recipe book, the digital tool acts as a bridge between tradition and digitalisation. It allows for:

• Promoting the short supply chain: it encourages the use of local produce and highlights the excellence of producers in the Adriatic region.
• Train professionals: it offers practical insights to chefs and future industry professionals (including through material derived from the project’s university and VET workshops) on how to structure modern, ‘zero-waste’ menus.
• Provide a replicable model: the platform is designed as a flexible tool, adaptable by other local communities wishing to digitise and reinterpret their intangible food and wine heritage in a modern way.