“Cultivating the future also means teaching new generations the value of ancient practices that bring to our tables such a precious and important food as extra virgin olive oil.”

The Olio di Calabria Igp Consortium is fully aware of this, which in recent days went to the I.C. Quattromiglia “Falcone” in Rende to talk about the unique nutraceutical qualities of Olio di Calabria Igp to primary and secondary school children.

A wonderful initiative, funded by the EAFRD – PSR Calabria 2014/2020 Measure 3 – Intervention 3.2.1, with very significant educational purposes. The meeting was a crucial moment to raise awareness in the school community about the importance of proper nutrition and the fundamental role that olive oil plays in a balanced diet.

Among the distinguished speakers, Gabriella Lo Feudo, formerly part of the Rende CRA-OFA, offered interesting insights into the history and evolution of olive oil in Calabrian and Italian tradition. Nutritionist, Valeria Grimoli, delved into the health benefits of olive oil, outlining its nutritional properties and its advantages in preventing diseases related to poor nutrition.

Making a technical and qualified contribution was panel head Massimiliano Pellegrino from CRA-OFA in Rende, who illustrated the organoleptic and qualitative characteristics that distinguish Calabrian IGP oil, offering a practical demonstration on sensory analysis. In addition, the director and president of the Consortium Olio di Calabria IGP who stressed the importance of promoting quality oil and educating young people to recognize its value, both in terms of health and territorial culture.

The event was a great success, involving students, teachers and parents in an educational journey to discover one of the fundamental elements of the Mediterranean diet. This initiative testifies to the ongoing commitment of the Olio di Calabria IGP Consortium in enhancing the gastronomic heritage of Calabria and promoting conscious and informed consumption.

Involving the territory, making the younger generations appreciate clear and unequivocal concepts about nutrition and the oil of Calabria are important messages that certainly go in the right direction taken by the Consortium.