Chairperson’s Summary / Innovation of the Local Food System

From Saitama to the World

Abstract

This conference focused on the downstream sector of the food system, such as food manufacturing and restaurants and aimed to find innovations in the local food system of Saitama prefecture, especially from the efforts of practitioners. In addition, the impact of COVID-19 on the local food system was discussed. Three presenters presented practical examples of Saitama's local food system, and one commentator commented on the presentations. After discussing the challenges and prospects of the local food system, the following four issues were clarified. First, it is necessary to analyze the local food system based on the externalization of food. Second, it is necessary to consider how to understand local food in the global world. Third, it is necessary to analyze the local food system based on the mobility of people and goods. Fourth, it is necessary to consider how to find new needs during the coronavirus crisis.