IS LOCAL FOOD ADEQUATELY UTILIZED IN TOURISM?

Banja Luka and Sarajevo ćevapi, Visočka pečenica, Livanjski cheese, and Gatački cheese from the "mješina" are just some of the officially protected products in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with many others that remain unprotected. Despite the rich gastronomic offer and exquisite dishes that captivate both the scent and taste, they are not sufficiently used as a magnet for tourists.

Marko Radić, head of the promotion sector at the Tourist Organization of the Republic of Srpska, stated in an interview with "Nezavisne Novine" that food absolutely can be an attraction for tourists, but it has not been adequately promoted here. "We know we have quality food, and we have good examples through 'Hercegovačka' and 'Krajiška Kuća,' as well as various associations that promote the production of local homemade food. However, we haven’t branded it enough for the destination to be recognized by food, as the Japanese did with sushi or the French with croissants. In that context, we haven't promoted destinations through food, and maybe it's time to start treating it as an important segment in attracting tourists," said Radić.

He added that food is a cultural component, an essential part of cultural identity, traditions, and customs. "Food, in the context of tourism, is not just a meal. It is an emotion, an experience, and a story. That's why, when tourists taste new flavors, hear the story of the origin of that food, and, even better, participate in its preparation, it becomes an unforgettable experience. For that reason, we should promote food through themed tours, tastings, and top-notch service, as that leaves the strongest impression on tourists," Radić emphasized.

Radoš Buha from the Tourist Organization of Nevesinje mentioned in his interview with "Nezavisne Novine" that the gastronomic offer in Nevesinje has been increasingly present, with products such as Nevesinje potatoes and cheese from the "mješina" being closely associated with the region. "Awareness among locals has increased significantly. This has been largely influenced by the branding of products, primarily Nevesinje potatoes, which was the first branded product in the Republic of Srpska. Moreover, this potato is an indispensable type of food in all restaurants in Nevesinje and is served at every table," said Buha, adding that the uniqueness of the potato is attributed to Nevesinje’s geographic location, climate, cultivation methods, and other factors.

"In addition to potatoes, I would also mention the Torotan cheese. It is also a specific product, made from full-fat cheese, which is then aged in a 'mješina' or sheep leather bag," he added. Buha believes that there is potential for growth in gastronomic tourism, especially in Nevesinje, which is not yet fully recognized on the tourist map.

Stanislava Borovac, a tour guide from Herzegovina, emphasized in her interview with "Nezavisne Novine" that Herzegovina is a true gastronomic paradise. Authentic products such as cheeses, olive oil, wines, ćupter, and many other specialties are not just part of the offer but the very foundation of tourism in the region. "Tourists who come want to experience the spirit of the destination through its flavors, and Herzegovina offers them much more than tastings. Here, they can also experience the process of preparing traditional authentic dishes, whether it’s making cheese, fig jam, homemade stew, baking bread under a 'sač,' or participating in grape harvesting. Each of these experiences adds a special charm to their stay and creates unforgettable memories," said Borovac.

However, she also pointed out that although certain products are already protected, there is still room for promoting the gastronomic offer. "More joint initiatives are needed to profile Herzegovina as a gastronomic destination, and through branding products and organizing tastings, it should be connected with tourism. Tourists don’t just want to see a destination; they want to taste it, and we have everything needed to offer them that top-notch experience," Borovac concluded.