Mamma mia, I am discovering that it will be quite a challenge to limit my upcoming ZOOM talk on the Mediterranean diet to one hour: too much to share. In 2010, UNESCO recognized the Mediterranean diet as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity that unites the dietary habits of Mediterranean basin communities.
Linked to the etymology of the word (from the Greek diaita), this diet of the Mediterrean basin is a way of life reinforcing the sense of belonging and sharing, for “eating together” is not simply consuming a meal together.
This UNESCO Cultural Heritage reinforces the foundations of interpersonal relationships, uniting all ages and social classes, promoting dialogue and respect for diversity
What better celebration of this sharing of foods than the traditional sagra, the village food festivals where older volunteers cook up traditional local dishes and young people serve?
Where to shop for this diet highlighted with abundant consumption of fruits and vegetables, grains, the incorporation of legumes, olive oil, some white meats, fish, some dairy products? No better place than the outdoor market: 
.
And highlights of the Mediterranean diet have been emulated in the art of Italy from the frescoes of Pompei…..
…to masterpieces of the 17th c….
….and in the extraordinary Neapolitan creche scene terracotta figures:
Ah, so very much to share on the Mediterranean Diet.
A one-hour chat will just never be sufficient.
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