The increase in visitors from emerging markets has given us a
good dilemma - how can we better cater for the travel needs of our
visitors from these new markets? How can we literally make them
feel at home in our country, and ensure that they are welcomed as
family and that all their needs - including their specific dietary
requirements - are catered for while they are here? - Thulani
Nzima, South African Tourism's Chief Executive Officer "
As more and more travellers visit South Africa from India, China
and Brazil, it has become increasingly important for local chefs
and the hospitality industry to cater to their special dietary
needs in a creative way.
To this end, SA Tourism has partnered with the South African
Chefs Association (SACA) to produce the Guide to Vegetarian, Vegan
and Jain Dining in South Africa*, which was launched yesterday at
the University of Johannesburg's Sol Kerzner School of Tourism and
Hospitality.
This cookbook sets out the specific dietary requirements of
vegetarians, vegans and Jains. It includes 50 appetising recipes to
give local chefs a range of delectable dishes to serve
non-meat-eaters. The book also gives helpful hints and tips on
sourcing unique ingredients. Food lists provide an easy-to-use
reference.
Many of the recipes were supplied by some of South Africa's top
chefs and food gurus and the result is a feast of innovative
recipes - many with a strong South African influence.
Thulani Nzima, South African Tourism's Chief Executive Officer,
says it is increasingly important to heed the needs of emerging
markets. He said: 'The increase in visitors from emerging markets
has given us a good dilemma - how can we better cater for the
travel needs of our visitors from these new markets? How can we
literally make them feel at home in our country, and ensure that
they are welcomed as family and that all their needs - including
their specific dietary requirements - are catered for while they
are here.'
The Guide to Vegetarian, Vegan and Jain Dining in South Africa
will be made available extensively to South Africa's hospitality
industry and will also be distributed to 6 000 chefs through the
South African Chefs Association.
- Jainism is an Indian religion that follows a path of
non-violence toward all living creatures. Jains do not eat meat,
poultry, fish, eggs or dairy products. They do not eat root
vegetables like potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots and beetroot, nor
do they eat yeast. Garlic, ginger and vinegar are also not
permissible for strict Jains.
- A person following a vegan diet eats no animal products
whatsoever. A vegan diet excludes meat, poultry, fish, shellfish,
eggs, milk, cheese and butter. It focuses largely on fruit,
vegetables, nuts and various forms of vegetable protein.
- A vegetarian is someone who does not eat meat, poultry, fish or
shellfish, but generally does eat eggs and dairy products
(including butter and milk).