Kingston, Jamaica

The port city of Kingston, Jamaica has a long history of trade and, as a result, the food system in Kingston has become tightly integrated into global food distribution networks. The importance of imported food to the Kingston food system, however, does not overshadow the role of local informal markets and producers as food sources to Kingston residents. The influence of imported food also does not overshadow the unique local cuisine and its importance to Kingston culture. The combination of these local and global forces in shaping Kingston demonstrates the unique and vibrant nature of this urban food system.