EcoSME event in Slovenia 

As part of the EcoSME project dissemination activities, with our Alumni Club members, we visited the Kocbek Oil Mill where we were introduced to their premises, history and boutique products, including a first-class tasting.

Kocbek Oil Mill is a family-owned SME specializing in the production of high-quality pumpkin seed oil. The mill has been in operation for generations and focuses on traditional methods of oil extraction to preserve the flavor and nutritional value of the oils. The company was founded in 1929 when grandfather Alojz set the course that is still followed today, by using the same mill as in 1929 and pressing the oil in the same way.

We were invited on a multi-sensory journey to an oil mill where the tradition of processing pumpkin oil, a protected cultural heritage of Slovenia, is being carried on by the third generation. We explored the history of pumpkins, from ripening in the fields to harvesting, cleaning and grinding the pumpkin seeds. We were surprised to taste local dishes made with pumpkin oil.

We continued our journey to Viničerije pri Gruški, where Mia Frank, a graduate of our school, works under the SME brand Miam Culinary.

Her business model is based on tradition, incorporating seasonal local produce and high-quality catering services. They are committed to using local ingredients, so the menu includes traditional local dishes prepared to traditional (family) recipes using ingredients from a short supply chain. MIAM Culinary works with local farmers, producers, and Slovenian companies.