The Mediterranean Diet as an Example of Environmental Sustainability

The Mediterranean diet not only makes reference to some characteristic eating habits, it is also a cultural model that involves the way foods are selected, produced, processed and distributed. The Mediterranean dietary pattern is presented not only as a cultural model but also as a healthy and environmentally friendly model.    UNESCO recognition of the Mediterranean diet as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity represents a strong visibility and acceptance of the Mediterranean diet worldwide. This along with better and more scientific evidence relating its benefits and effectiveness on longevity, quality of life and disease prevention, has taken this dietary pattern to an historical moment without precedent. This is a positive situation that could allow the empowering of the Mediterranean diet around the world, thereby enhancing in global health indicators and in decreasing of environmental impact by production and transportation of food resources.   To this end, the Mediterranean diet should be seen for what it is: an extremely and incomparable healthy, affordable and environmentally sustainable food model, as well as an ancient cultural heritage that confers identity and belonging. From the heart to the earth through the road of culture, the Mediterranean diet is a cultural heritage that looks to the future.