Taste & Feel 2.0: Expanding Portuguese Exports in the USA

  taste-feel-2-0-expanding-portuguese-exports-in-the-usa.html
  Food and Wine on Tue, Jun 09th, 2026 by WFMZ-TV
      Locales: UNITED STATES, PORTUGAL

Core Objectives of the Initiative

• Market Visibility: Increasing the awareness of the "Made in Portugal" brand among US importers, distributors, and high-end consumers.

• Trade Facilitation: Establishing direct connections between Portuguese producers and American business partners to streamline supply chains.

• Cultural Diplomacy: Utilizing gastronomy as a tool for soft power, highlighting the authenticity and tradition of Portuguese culture.

• Diversification of Exports: Moving beyond traditional exports to showcase a broader array of gourmet and sustainable agri-food products.

Pillars of Portuguese Agri-Food Excellence

The "Taste & Feel 2.0" project is designed as a multi-faceted trade and cultural mission. Rather than a simple exhibition, it is a calculated move to expand the footprint of Portuguese exports in the United States. The primary goals can be categorized as follows

The selection of products for the New Orleans showcase is not arbitrary; it reflects the specific strengths of the Portuguese agricultural sector. The focus is placed on the intersection of ancestral tradition and modern sustainability.

Featured Product Categories and Their Significance

• Viticulture and Enology: Beyond the world-renowned Port wines, the showcase emphasizes the versatility of Portuguese grapes, including the crisp profiles of Vinho Verde and the structured nature of Douro valley reds.

• Olive Oil Production: Highlighting the purity and health benefits of Portuguese extra-virgin olive oils, focusing on the unique flavor profiles derived from indigenous olive groves.

• Premium Canned Seafood: Positioning Portuguese canned fish—particularly sardines and tuna—as a gourmet delicacy rather than a mere convenience food, emphasizing sustainable fishing practices.

• Artisanal Cheeses and Charcuterie: Showcasing regional specialties that reflect the diverse landscapes of the interior and the coast, focusing on traditional curing and aging processes.

Strategic Importance of the New Orleans Location

To effectively communicate the diversity of its offerings, the "Taste & Feel 2.0" initiative highlights several key categories that represent the pinnacle of Portuguese production

Choosing New Orleans as the site for this initiative provides a strategic advantage. New Orleans is globally recognized as a culinary capital with a deep appreciation for fusion, heritage, and high-quality ingredients. The city's openness to international flavors makes it an ideal entry point for Portuguese products seeking to establish a foothold in the US South and beyond. The synergy between the Creole/Cajun culinary spirit and the Portuguese maritime tradition creates a fertile ground for business networking and consumer curiosity.

Summary of Relevant Details

• Event Name: Taste & Feel 2.0

• Primary Focus: Portuguese Agri-Food Excellence

• Host City: New Orleans, USA

• Target Audience: Importers, distributors, culinary professionals, and consumers

• Key Themes: Sustainability, tradition, innovation, and trade expansion

• Strategic Goal: Increasing the export volume and brand recognition of Portuguese food and beverage products in the North American market