The Mediterranean Diet is not just a nutritional regime, but a lifestyle that encompasses skills, knowledge, and traditions, with respect for the land and biodiversity.
Today, the Mediterranean Diet also serves as a model to address the challenges of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, with a particular focus on education and younger generations. Recognised by UNESCO in 2010 as part of the world’s cultural heritage, the Mediterranean Diet promotes a balanced and sustainable approach to food. To mark the 15th anniversary of this recognition, the Italian Society of Human Nutrition (SINU) is putting it back in the spotlight.
During the 45th National SINU Congress (Salerno, May 28–30, 2025), experts introduced a new version of the Mediterranean Diet Pyramid. The decision to update the previous versions of the pyramid was prompted by new and significant scientific evidence on the link between the Mediterranean Diet and chronic diseases, as well as by the FAO-WHO report on healthy and sustainable diets and the EAT–Lancet Commission report on sustainable food systems. Two key Italian documents were also considered: the Guidelines for Healthy Italian Eating issued by CREA (Research Center for Food and Nutrition) and the Dietary Reference Values of Nutrients and Energy for the Italian population (SINU, LARN – 5th revision). This updated visual guide is designed to help people, especially children and families, follow a healthier and more sustainable diet. The new Pyramid gives even more importance to plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and extra virgin olive oil, while advising to eat less red and processed meat.
Research shows that following the Mediterranean Diet is linked to many health benefits, including lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and other chronic conditions. However, studies also show that especially among children and teenagers, many don’t eat enough healthy foods like vegetables, fruit, and whole grains. Many also skip milk and dairy products, which can lead to nutritional gaps.
Several factors help improve children’s eating habits, like having meals with family, eating lunch at school, getting enough sleep, being physically active, and parents who are well-informed and involved in food choices. On the other hand, barriers include busy schedules, low interest in cooking, and lack of knowledge about healthy foods.
SINU’s updated Pyramid offers a practical tool for schools, public health initiatives, and families. With its clear and user-friendly design, it supports informed food choices while promoting a more sustainable future, for both our health and the planet.
For more information see: Sofi et al. . Mediterranean diet: Why a new pyramid? An updated representation of the traditional Mediterranean diet by the Italian Society of Human Nutrition (SINU). Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2025:103919. doi: 10.1016/j.numecd.2025.103919.
