Rome, Dec. – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) celebrated this Friday the approval by the United Nations of November 16 as International Mediterranean Diet Day.
In a statement published by the press office of this global institution, it is noted that this is a “positive initiative to promote awareness and appreciation of the importance of healthy diets, sustainability, and territorial traditions, in order to achieve food security and better nutrition.”
The establishment of International Mediterranean Diet Day was endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly, following the approval of a proposal submitted by Italy during the 44th session of the FAO Conference held this year.
The Italian government promoted this resolution, aimed at contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), on behalf of a large group of Mediterranean countries, also sponsors of the project, including Armenia, Croatia, Cyprus, Spain, France, Greece, Lebanon, Malta, Montenegro, Morocco, Portugal, San Marino, and Tunisia.
The FAO considers that “this recognition represents an opportunity to highlight how territorial diets, rooted in history, local economies, and long-term climatic and environmental resources and constraints, can offer benefits for human health and sustainability,” the statement emphasizes.
The Mediterranean Diet has been considered, since November 16, 2016, by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, given its cultural, nutritional, and social importance.
It features healthy eating habits rooted in local traditions, including the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and olive oil, as well as, in moderation, seafood, dairy products, meats, and eggs, while limiting the intake of sweets.
This diet “is supported by a holistic sociology in which hospitality, intercultural dialogue, and lifestyles are guided by respect for diversity,” the source adds.
(With information from Prensa Latina)
