Un gran patrimonio gastronómico: los alimentos de calidad diferenciada producidos en Asturias

The production/elaboration of differentiated quality food came to increase its importance in the agri-food sector of the Principality of Asturias. Nowadays it constitutes a de facto patrimony that should be rationalized and consolidated. This article aims to study the status of these products, firstly defining concepts, describing the reasons for their success and mentioning recent literature, in a context of patrimonialization. Next, the importance and evolution of such products are indicated, taking the EU and the national market as the proper framework. Reference is made later to the Alimentos del Paraíso Natural brand and to other elements that patrimonialize gastronomy and its possible effects on artisan and small companies agri-food special production. The final part emphasizes the advantages generated by the considered products, from a double socioeconomic and environmental perspective. Summarizing, this contribution aims to help us better understand a part of the Asturian gastronomic heritage of great socioeconomic, cultural and traditional value.