#China #Beijing #UNESCO #Lee Kum Kee #Forever Flavors

Lee Kum Kee Partners with UNESCO to Promote Culinary Heritage

On January 21, 2026, Lee Kum Kee Sauce, a renowned leader in sauces and condiments, initiated an innovative partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in a ceremony held in Beijing, launching the "Forever Flavors Project." This unique initiative is designed to gather food-related stories from people worldwide, creating a global archive that cherishes culinary memories.

The heart of the "Forever Flavors Project" lies in its mission to use flavors as a medium to enhance cross-cultural dialogue and emotional connections, while also promoting the sustainable preservation of culinary heritage. This collaborative effort aims to safeguard culinary cultural heritage, nurture young culinary talent, facilitate platforms for intercultural exchange, and encourage public engagement through shared food narratives.

Starting from January 20, the project invites individuals globally to share their flavor stories through various social media platforms, including Lee Kum Kee's official Instagram and UNESCO's official website. Participants are encouraged to use the hashtags #ForeverFlavorsProject and #忘不了的味道 when posting their contributions, which can be in the form of text, videos, or photographs. Selected stories will be highlighted on UNESCO and Lee Kum Kee's official platforms, and contributors will receive a unique digital certificate marking their memory's inclusion in this prestigious archive.

Promoting Cross-Cultural Understanding through Food

During the launch event, Professor Shahbaz Khan, the Director and Representative of UNESCO's Regional Office for East Asia, expressed the importance of food as a key element of cultural identity and sustainable development. He emphasized, "Food is a living heritage that carries memory, identity, and emotion. It serves as a key link between generations. This partnership with Lee Kum Kee showcases how public-private collaborations can achieve meaningful cultural safeguarding."

Lee Kum Kee's Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Daniel Shih, shared insights about the company’s long-standing tradition, dating back to 1888. He underlined the vital connection between flavor and human interaction, stating, "From our signature oyster sauce to being a staple in kitchens globally, we aim to preserve and share the 'memory of flavor.' This collaboration represents our shared commitment to celebrating culinary heritage."

The event was enriched by guest speakers, including prominent chefs and food bloggers, who narrated personal experiences linking food and memory. Their stories resonate with generations, encapsulating the essence of flavors that evoke nostalgia and cultural identity, underlining the project's core theme that flavor is deeply tied to emotions and connections.

A Lasting Commitment to Culinary Heritage

Food is a pivotal lens through which individuals understand their world, effectively building relationships and enriching cultural dialogue. For 138 years, Lee Kum Kee has dedicated itself to fostering connections through flavorful culinary experiences worldwide. By partnering with UNESCO, the company aspires to utilize flavor as a universal language promoting meaningful cross-cultural exchanges.

As the "Forever Flavors Project" officially commences, Lee Kum Kee warmly invites everyone to partake in this journey by sharing their distinctive food stories, contributing to a rich and diverse archive of culinary memories. This initiative stands as a testament to the enduring bond that flavor creates among people, transcending boundaries and fostering deeper mutual understanding around the globe.

About Lee Kum Kee

Founded in 1888, Lee Kum Kee has evolved into a global entity, committed to enriching people's lives through culinary excellence and cultural heritage. The company not only focuses on sauces but also engages in various sectors, including Traditional Chinese Medicine and corporate culture consultancy. With over 9,000 employees worldwide, Lee Kum Kee is resolute in its vision of promoting a healthier, more joyful world through its diverse offerings.

For more information, visit Lee Kum Kee's website or their official social media accounts.

About UNESCO

UNESCO is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 1945, dedicated to fostering international collaboration in the fields of education, science, culture, and communication. By enhancing access to knowledge and preserving cultural heritage, UNESCO strives to build a more equitable and peaceful world.

For detailed information about UNESCO's initiatives, visit UNESCO's official website.