Edith Pereyra de la Rosa

The state of Chiapas is known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, yet it faces significant socioeconomic challenges, with over two-thirds of its population living in poverty. This situation has prompted the involvement of NGOs and academic institutions in supporting traditional knowledge and sustainable practices among indigenous communities. Slow Food International (SF) has been a key actor in promoting the agroecological production and commercialization of corn tostadas, which are considered a baluarte or bulwark, to preserve biocultural heritage and empower local producers. SF’s initiatives include capacity-building workshops for women in three municipalities of Chiapas: San Cristobal de las Casas, Comitán, and Teopisca. The initiatives have strengthened self-employment opportunities, fostered knowledge exchange, and supported traditional food systems. This study evaluates the cultural appropriation of the baluarte using Bonfil Batalla’s (1991) cultural control theory. To achieve this objective, the evaluation incorporated qualitative methods, such as focus groups and in-depth interviews. Data analysis was carried out using the AtlasTi software. The results show that SF’s actions have been aimed at promoting and preserving the traditional milpa system to maintain the gastronomic identity of Chiapas. These efforts were carried out, taking into consideration the participants’ cultural aspects, which consequently led to a successful appropriation of new capacities and technologies for the production of this traditional product, which, in turn, has helped them to improve its transportation and commercialization. In conclusion, the realization of social projects should take into account a region’s cultural dimension in order to achieve a successful appropriation among local participants.