Ernährungsrat für Köln und Umgebung e.V.

The Ernährungsrat für Köln und Umgebung e.V. is a non-profit, registered association that was founded in March 2016 out of civic engagement. The association is dedicated to building local, sustainable food systems and works closely with a broad public.

The main mission of the Ernährungsrat is to bring food policy back to the municipal level. This is achieved by establishing fair partnerships between municipalities, farmers, distributors, and consumers. The association promotes dialogue between these actors to strengthen the structures of regional food supply in the long term and sustainably. Important values include promoting knowledge and appreciation of sustainable nutrition, creating agency through political, economic, and social structures, and ensuring access to good, regional food for all.

The Ernährungsrat works in four central committees:

• Regional Marketing: By expanding new sales and sourcing opportunities, small producing businesses are strengthened, and consumers are given easier access to regionally produced food.
• Urban Agriculture/Edible City: The preservation and development of areas for urban agriculture and community gardens are central themes. The "Edible City" project focuses on utilizing green spaces in residential complexes and businesses to unlock the potential for community gardening and sustainable food production in the city[1][3][5].
• Nutrition Education and Community Catering: The focus here is on educating children and adults about the cultivation, healthy preparation, and appreciation of food. Projects like "StErn Kita" aim to integrate regionally and sustainably produced food into daycare centers and family centers[3][4].
• Gastronomy and Food Craft: The committee supports the integration of regional and sustainable products in gastronomy and food craft to promote the consumption of regional dishes[3].