The Mediterranean Diet – UNESCO Cultural Heritage
A unique experience that intertwines culinary tradition, responsible tourism and eco-friendliness
Recognised as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2010, the Mediterranean Diet is much more than just a healthy approach to eating: it’s a whole lifestyle that reflects age-old traditions and a strong bond with the land. The diet is based on fresh, seasonal and local food, with plenty of fruit, vegetables, legumes, whole-grain cereals, extra virgin olive oil and fish, along with moderate amounts of meat and dairy products. The tradition is epitomised by olive oil, which is one of the main ingredients and a key part of a healthy, antioxidant-rich diet.
Along with the nutritional aspects, there are also social and cultural sides to the Mediterranean Diet. Meals are seen as a time for families and communities to come together and share. Making and eating food are traditions that are handed down through the generations, tying together food, culture and the landscape. The Mediterranean Diet is also environmentally friendly, because local, seasonal foods are used whenever possible, thus promoting sustainability and ecological balance. All of this goes to show that the Mediterranean Diet is not just a dietary model, but also an invaluable asset that combines health, culture, sustainability and social wellbeing.
Consequently, the Smarties for SMEs project is promoting the Mediterranean Diet as a model of sustainability that not only preserves cultural heritage, but also fosters the development of local small and medium enterprises.
Backing from the project enables businesses to seize the opportunities presented by the growing popularity of the Mediterranean Diet and stand out in the market, shining a spotlight on traditional products and organic farming methods that protect local identities and biodiversity. In addition, Smarties for SMEs promotes collaboration between local players, creating networks that strengthen the bonds between agriculture, culture and tourism, and providing added value for both producers and visitors.
The Mediterranean Diet and Regenerative Tourism
Connections between regenerative tourism and the Mediterranean Diet can be forged by sustainable farming methods, promotion of biodiversity and measures to strengthen ties between local communities and visitors. Traditional techniques such as organic farming and responsible fishing play a crucial part in this model, because they contribute to environmental conservation and landscape regeneration.
In addition, regenerative tourism champions local products, boosts rural economies and strengthens social cohesion. A virtuous circle takes shape, with benefits for both local people and tourists.
Awareness about the importance of protecting culinary and natural heritage is raised by active visitor participation. This can take various forms, such as authentic experiences preparing meals and discovering local farming methods. When it is harnessed in this way, the Mediterranean Diet can serve not only as a distinctive feature of tourism, but also as an effective means of regenerating areas, with lasting benefits for communities and the environment.
A genuine tourist experience
The Mediterranean Diet has become part of a tourist experience that is in demand among those seeking authenticity. It is the cornerstone of an approach to tourism that goes beyond simply tasting dishes and gives visitors the chance to embrace local culinary traditions in truly immersive experiences.
Food and wine trails present ideal opportunities to discover not only traditional dishes, but also the history and preparation techniques behind them. During tasting sessions for olive oil, wine, cheese and other local products, tourists can get to know areas and their culture using their senses. In addition, thanks to experiences such as cooking classes, they can learn to make traditional dishes with the help of local experts, who share cultural knowledge and family traditions as well as their culinary skills.
Local markets play a core role in these experiences, providing unparalleled opportunities to discover a range of fresh and seasonal products and meet the growers and producers behind them. More than just buying items from them, tourists can get to know them and enjoy a shared experience.
Essentially, whole tourist experiences can be put together around the Mediterranean Diet, which can serve as a common thread running through stories that bring together food, history, communities and the places where they live.
As well as taking tourists on culinary journeys, it provides them with an opportunity to discover and really get to know authentic local culture in the places they visit, by getting actively involved in life there.