The Yeongam Fig Gorgonzola Pizza featuring Yeongam figs and Goheung yuzu (Image courtesy of South Jeolla Province)
GWANGJU, Nov. 7 (Korea Bizwire) – Major restaurant chains are increasingly incorporating regional agricultural and seafood products into their new menu items, creating a win-win situation that benefits both local farmers and corporate image.
South Jeolla Province announced on November 6 that Banolim Pizza will launch its Yeongam Fig Gorgonzola Pizza featuring Yeongam figs and Goheung yuzu at the end of this month. Yeongam is the primary production area for figs, which are known for their subtle flavor that blends well with other ingredients.
The new pizza features fresh Yeongam figs generously placed atop a yuzu sauce, preserving the natural texture of the fruit. When showcased at the 30th International Namdo Food Culture Festival in late September, the pizza received praise for its “visual and culinary appeal, combining the elegance of figs with yuzu fragrance.”
McDonald’s launched a burger incorporating Jindo-grown green onions. (Image courtesy of Jindo County)
A hamburger featuring Jindo’s specialty green onions has also proven highly successful. McDonald’s launched a burger incorporating Jindo-grown green onions in July of last year.
The item sold 500,000 units in just one week, leading to a re-release in September. Jindo’s green onion income more than doubled from 24.8 billion won in 2022 to 56.3 billion won in 2023.
“While collaborations with restaurant chains help stimulate the local economy, it’s unfortunate that these products are only available for limited periods,” said Park Hyun, head of Jindo County’s agricultural and marine products distribution planning team.
The Herb Butter Wando Abalone Ribeye Steak (Image courtesy of Wando County)
Wando County partnered with CJ Food from July to December of last year to launch new menu items featuring the region’s specialty, abalone. Items such as Wando Abalone Pasta and Herb Butter Wando Abalone Ribeye Steak received positive consumer feedback for highlighting abalone’s unique flavor.
Coffee franchise The Venti launched four seasonal beverages using matcha from Boseong, Korea’s largest green tea production area. Among these spring-themed drinks, the Einspänner proved so popular it was added to the permanent menu.
“We hope the ‘loconomy’ trend – combining ‘local’ and ‘economy’ – of consuming products that utilize regional specialties and unique culture will lead to increased regional tourism,” said Joo Soon-sun, director of the tourism and sports bureau at South Jeolla Province.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
