The Mediterranean diet is included in UNESCO’s list of the ‘intangible cultural heritage of humanity’, a list of cultural ‘practices and expressions’ that ‘help demonstrate the diversity of this heritage and raise awareness about its importance’. The Mediterranean diet is included as a model of a balanced, healthy and diverse diet in which many vegetarian products are present, among them the use of olive oil, known for its health benefits.
However, as UNESCO recognises, it is more than just a diet, it is a way of life: a way of life with taking the time to communally prepare and eat healthy food surrounded by family and friends at its centre.