Mexico City's First Community Tortillería Celebrates Native Corn
Mexico City has inaugurated its first community tortillería, 'Tierra Viva', dedicated to producing tortillas from native, pesticide-free corn. Supported by the Secretariat of Rural Development and Equity for Communities (SEDEREC), this cooperative venture marks a significant step towards sustainability and the celebration of Mexico's maize heritage.
Operated by a cooperative of women and indigenous producers from Oaxaca, Puebla, and the State of Mexico, Tierra Viva opened its doors on October 5, 2025. The cooperative uses criollo corn varieties, preserving biodiversity and ancestral knowledge. Visitors can witness the traditional nixtamalization process and taste freshly made tortillas in various colors. The tortillería aims to serve local families at affordable prices, fostering a direct link between urban consumers and rural producers. Plans are underway to expand distribution to schools, markets, and community kitchens across the city.
The inauguration of Tierra Viva signifies a hopeful turn towards sustainability and autonomy. By promoting native corn and traditional production methods, this community tortillería celebrates maize as a sacred cornerstone of Mexican identity. Its success could pave the way for similar initiatives, bridging the gap between urban and rural communities.
