Agora of the Mediterranean Diet. The Naples Conference from 3 to 5 May 2024

From 3 to 5 May 2024, the “For Mediterranean Diet - The International Agora of the Mediterranean Diet” conference was held at the San Marcellino and Festo monumental complex in Naples.

On the first day of meetings, during the afternoon session, a round table was held featuring the Minister of Health, Orazio Schillaci; the Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Maria Tripodi; and the UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, Stefania Giannini.

The engaging debate was moderated by Professor Annamaria Colao, holder of the UNESCO Chair in “Health Education and Sustainable Development” at the University of Naples Federico II, dedicated to promoting the health of the population through environmental, cultural, and nutritional factors.

Professor Colao then gave a detailed presentation on “The Mediterranean Diet from Past to Future”, providing a compelling narrative on the value of the element inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, and also addressing issues related to malnutrition and obesity.

On the occasion of the International Agora of the Mediterranean Diet, the young researchers of Spoke 5 gathered in person for the first time to discuss the progress of individual projects and new proposals to be carried out in the coming months as part of the OnFoods research.

Professor Annamaria Colao with the Early Career Scientists from Spoke 5

Chaired by Dr. Iolanda Cioffi and Dr. Gaia Maria Anelli, the event allowed the Early Career Scientists (ECSs) to share the results of their research, highlighting their value within the activities of their respective Spoke.

On Sunday, 5th May, the project presentation session was attended by Dr. Brenda Marfella, Dr. Angela Catapano, Dr. Linda Varcamonti, Dr. Vera Rotondi, Dr. Cinzia Quaglia, and Dr. Nicola Tecce. This moment not only showcased the quality and diversity of the ongoing research but also the great collaboration and knowledge sharing among the ECSs.

Following this, the discussion shifted to the organisation of future outreach activities, illustrated by the communication group composed of Dr. Federica Cantelli, Dr. Marfella, and Dr. Catapano.

The project aims to give a voice to the research community and disseminate new scientific discoveries in the field of food science; additionally, it is an excellent opportunity for young researchers to improve their skills in scientific communication.

At the end of the meeting, Dr. Anelli presented the rich calendar of training courses for Spoke 5.

In conclusion, from the ECSs meeting to the conference in Naples, it was clearly evident how important it is to promote a broader understanding of issues related to food and scientific research, engage stakeholders, and network. To shape the future of food and healthy lifestyles.