THE IEAMED
Since the beginning, the European Institute of Mediterranean Food (IEAMED), has become the institution of the Regional Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development, that promotes Mediterranean Diet, now considered Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, and the Andalusian products as guarantors of health, quality and food tradition.
After its solid bet towards a new model of organization based on networking and cooperation with various stakeholders in the sector, the IEAMED has become a centre for meetings and public-private partnership between the sector itself and areas as important as health, food, innovation, and research.
PROGRAMMES
The IEAMED, managed by the Agriculture and Fisheries Management Agency of AndalucÃa (AGAPA), operates in four key areas through the following programmes:
Food & Health: Conveying the differential concept of Mediterranean Diet linked to health and quality of life in all related forums, with a set of projects designed for this purpose.
Research and training: Promote research and development in the food sector and rural areas, as well as knowledge of current dietary habits of the Andalusian society and its problems. Become a link between the academic sector and the world of work, transferring the knowledge gained on Mediterranean Diet, andalusian food products, quality brands and brands with designations of origin through different training programmes and activities.
Promotion: To disseminate, both scientifically and culturally and socially, the importance of a healthy and balanced diet combined with good habits, promoting the incorporation of the Mediterranean Diet as a food model.
International Relations: Develop partnerships and alliances with other Mediterranean institutions that allow the implementation of projects for international cooperation to safeguard the Mediterranean Diet, Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
MEDITERRANEAN FOOD
The Mediterranean Diet has been part of the culture and heritage of different Mediterranean countries for centuries, creating bridges between its inhabitants. This concept encompasses production, marketing, consumption, social interaction, ritual and symbolism of Mediterranean food, and its various culinary typologies.
There is scientific evidence that the Mediterranean Diet contributes to the healthy development of people, preventing diseases and promoting a healthy and balanced growth. Frequent consumption of fruits, vegetables, olive oil, cereals and legumes, among other products, is the key to the nutritional value of this model.
Mediterranean Food Pyramid
All foods are allowed in the Mediterranean Diet, but their consumption must be programmed properly so that the frequency is appropriate. Therefore, you should prefer fresh and seasonal foods, like fruits and vegetables, and follow the guidelines in the Food Pyramid, with a higher proportion and frequency of those in the base, and gradually reduce their intake as you rise the pyramid.
