International Day of the Mediterranean Diet
A UN day celebrating the Mediterranean diet as a healthy, sustainable way of life recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.
Date16 November
TopicHealth
Ways to observe this day
- Prepare a Mediterranean meal with olive oil and fresh vegetables
- Swap a red-meat meal for fish or legumes
- Share a healthy recipe inspired by Mediterranean cuisine
- Share today's meal with family, in the Mediterranean tradition
The UN General Assembly designated November 16 to celebrate the Mediterranean diet, which UNESCO inscribed in 2013 on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity — recognizing it as more than a diet, but a complete way of life combining food with social traditions around growing, preparing, and sharing meals.
The diet emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, olive oil, and fish, while limiting red meat and processed sugar. Numerous studies link it to lower rates of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, along with benefits for longevity and mental health.
The day encourages adopting this way of eating worldwide, not only for its health benefits but also for its role in supporting sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, and local food heritage, while strengthening the social and family bonds built around sharing meals.
