Globalization and Changing Lifestyles Alters Mediterranean Diet Pattern Of Natives

Natives of Mediterranean countries have wiled away from the diet rich in fruits and legumes, which has long been a by word for healthy living. The region is undergoing a 'nutrition transition' from traditional, sustainable foods towards more meat and dairy products, a new report by the UN and International Center for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies.

The bottom line is that many in southern Mediterranean countries, from Egypt to Lebanon, Morocco and Turkey, are piling on the kilos, struggling increasingly with obesity and chronic diet-based diseases, the UN’s food agency said.

"Globalization, food marketing and changing lifestyles including changes in the roles women play in society are altering consumption patterns in the Mediterranean," the report said.

The famous diet is based on cereals, vegetables, pulses and a moderate intake of fish and meat, but tourism, urban development; depletion of natural resources and a loss of traditional knowledge are altering the menu.

Products are being increasingly sourced from outside the region - only 10% of the local crop varieties cultivated in the past are still grown today - which affects not only local food producers but also the environment.

"The Mediterranean diet is nutritious, integrated in local cultures, environmentally sustainable and it supports local economies. This is why it’s essential that we continue to promote and support it," said Alexandre Meybeck, Coordinator of FAO’s Sustainable Food Systems Program.

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Source-AFP