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Sustainable diets: the Mediterranean diet as an example
Barbara Burlingame1, Sandro Dernini
1Nutrition and Consumer Protection Division, FAO, Viale delle Terme di Caracalla, Rome, Italy.
Public Health Nutrition
|December 15, 2011
Summary
The Mediterranean diet exemplifies a sustainable eating pattern, integrating nutrition, biodiversity, and local food production. Further research is needed to fully understand its interconnected benefits for current and future generations.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Environmental Science
- Cultural Studies
Background:
- The Mediterranean diet is recognized globally for its health benefits.
- Its sustainability aspects, however, require deeper investigation.
- Understanding the diet's connection to biodiversity and local food systems is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the Mediterranean diet as a model for sustainable eating.
- To explore the intricate links between nutrition, biodiversity, local food production, and cultural heritage within the Mediterranean context.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive review of existing literature and initiatives.
- Analysis of concepts and activities supporting the Mediterranean diet's sustainable status.
- Focus on the Mediterranean region and its diverse populations.
Main Results:
- The Mediterranean diet inherently connects nutritional value with ecological and cultural factors.
- Evidence suggests a strong link between dietary patterns and local biodiversity preservation.
- Local food production is a key component of the diet's sustainability.
Conclusions:
- Further intersectoral studies are essential to quantify the synergies between nutrition, biodiversity, and sustainability.
- The Mediterranean diet serves as a valuable case study for promoting sustainable food systems globally.
- Recognizing the Mediterranean diet as sustainable benefits both present and future generations.
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