Saulo Jennings, a renowned chef from Brazil’s Amazon region, declined to cater a vegan dinner at Prince William’s Earthshot Prize ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, citing concerns over cultural imposition and sustainability. Jennings, a UN gastronomy ambassador, was asked to create a 100% vegan menu, but he felt uncomfortable signing off on it, suggesting instead an Amazonian menu with mostly vegetable dishes and sustainably managed fish.
The chef emphasized that the Amazon is a balanced ecosystem, where people, animals, and plants coexist, and that his work showcases the region’s sustainability, including its fish. Jennings’ decision sparked debate on what truly defines a sustainable diet, with some arguing that veganism is not the only answer.
Jennings’ culinary tradition is rooted in the Amazon’s rich biodiversity, and he believes that food is a way to tell the story of the region and its people. He is now preparing to impress world leaders at the COP30 summit with an immersive dinner highlighting the Amazon’s natural bounty.
