Why Energy, Sustainability, and Innovation in Wine, Olive Oil, and Agriculture Must Be Discussed Together

As the 4th Science & Wine World Congress approaches, it is crucial to integrate discussions about sustainability across wine, olive oil, and high energy-consuming agricultural sectors. Although these industries are often treated separately, they share environmental challenges and opportunities for innovation, particularly in renewable energy adoption, precision agriculture, and technological advancements. Francesco Serafini will highlight how olive cultivation is not only traditional but a key tool against climate change due to its exceptional CO₂ sequestration capacity. Emma Burgos Ramos will focus on the neuroprotective benefits of olive oil polyphenols, especially in preventing age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s. The article emphasizes the urgent need for a systemic, collective approach to sustainability, and invites experts to submit abstracts addressing energy, innovation, and sustainable practices in agriculture by May 11, 2025.

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Francesco Serafini: A Life Dedicated to Sustainable Olive Cultivation and the Fight Against Climate Change

The 4th Science & Wine World Congress – Energy, Sustainability, and Green Transition in Wine and Olive Oil Production is proud to welcome Francesco Serafini as one of its keynote speakers. His presence is more than symbolic—it represents decades of leadership, scientific expertise, and pioneering work in sustainable agriculture, with a particular focus on the…

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Celebrating Women in Science: Emma Burgos Ramos and María Rodríguez Pérez at The 4th Science & Wine World Congress

This ARTICLE celebrates the contributions of two distinguished female researchers, Emma Burgos Ramos and María Rodríguez Pérez, invited speakers at the 4th Science & Wine World Congress – Energy, Sustainability, and Green Transition in Wine and Olive Oil Production. Both scientists have made significant strides in the fields of biochemistry, molecular biology, and nutrition, particularly in the study of polyphenols from olive oil and their impact on neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases. Their research has shed light on the protective effects of hydroxytyrosol against Alzheimer’s disease, the metabolic benefits of leptin, and the role of polyphenols in modulating gene expression. This post explores their academic journeys, key findings, and collaborative efforts in advancing sustainable health solutions through olive oil byproducts, reinforcing the connection between nutrition, sustainability, and disease prevention.

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The Mediterranean Diet and Nutrition Literacy: Empowering Healthy and Sustainable Choices

The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is renowned for its health and sustainability benefits, emphasizing nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and whole grains while limiting processed and red meats. However, its widespread adoption hinges on nutrition literacy, the ability to access, understand, and apply dietary information. This article explores how nutrition literacy empowers individuals to adopt a MedDiet, addressing barriers such as cultural differences, economic constraints, and knowledge gaps. It highlights strategies to enhance adherence such as educational programs, community-based initiatives, and supportive public policies. This article calls for innovative research contributions to the Nutrients Special Issue, aiming to advance the role of the MedDiet in promoting health and sustainability through improved nutrition literacy.

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Advancing Sustainability: Linking Wine and Olive Oil Production to a Greener Future

Sustainability of wine and olive oil production is crucial for addressing climate change, resource scarcity, and shifting consumer demand. By integrating tradition with innovation, these industries can adopt practices, such as regenerative farming, renewable energy, and precision agriculture, to enhance environmental, economic, and social outcomes. The 4th Science & Wine World Congress in Porto will highlight these advancements, featuring workshops, case studies, and expert discussions on sustainable vineyard and olive farming practices, climate resilience, and the socioeconomic dimensions of sustainability. This event underscores the role of research, collaboration, and policy in driving a greener future for agriculture.

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Blanching of olive fruits before storage at different conditions: Effects on oil yield, lipase activity and oxidation

This study examined the impact of blanching olives and various storage conditions on the quality of extra-virgin olive oil. Blanching, achieved by immersing olives in hot water at 100°C for 3 min, effectively reduces lipase activity, preserves phenolic compounds, and enhances oxidative stability, especially when combined with cold storage at 8–10°C in perforated crates. Although the oil yield was slightly lower under cold conditions, the overall quality of the oil, including lower free fatty acid levels and higher antioxidant activity, was significantly improved. These findings highlight blanching and optimized storage as practical strategies to enhance the quality of olive oil production.

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Enhancing Cantal cheese quality with olive leaf extract: A scientific exploration

This study explored the incorporation of olive leaf extract (OLE) into Cantal cheese to enhance its quality, functionality, and shelf life. OLE, which is rich in phenolic compounds such as oleuropein, significantly increased the antioxidant activity and microbial stability of cheese, inhibiting spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms without compromising its nutritional composition. Textural properties, such as hardness and cohesiveness, improved due to protein-polyphenol interactions, although slight changes in elasticity and color were noted. These findings highlight OLE’s potential of OLE as a natural preservative and functional ingredient, offering sustainable solutions for repurposing olive byproducts. Optimizing OLE concentrations to maintain beneficial microbial activity and ensure consumer acceptance remain key areas for further research. This innovative approach aligns with modern sustainability and health trends, paving the way for advancements in the dairy and functional food markets.

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Olive Oil as a Tourist Attraction: An Analysis of Demand

The article “Olive Oil as a Tourist Attraction: An Analysis of Demand” explores the rise of oleotourism—tourism focused on olive oil production and culture—in Córdoba, Spain. Researchers Dancausa Millán and Millán Vázquez de la Torre analyze oleotourism’s potential for economic development and cultural preservation in rural communities. Their study uses econometric models to predict growing demand for olive oil tourism, which, despite being seasonal, could create stable employment opportunities if diversified with activities like festivals and workshops.

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Olive Oil Industry By-Products as a Novel Source of Biophenols with a Promising Role in Alzheimer Disease Prevention​

I am excited to share that this week’s post is about a review paper that I am proud to co-author, titled Olive Oil Industry By-Products as a Novel Source of Biophenols with a Promising Role in Alzheimer Disease Prevention. This study highlights the potential of olive oil by-products, which are often considered waste, as a valuable source of bioactive compounds that could play a key role in preventing Alzheimer’s disease. This research not only contributes to the growing body of knowledge on neurodegenerative disease prevention but also aligns with sustainable practices in the olive oil industry. Stay tuned to dive deeper into the exciting findings and implications of this study.

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4th Science & Wine World Congress – Energy, sustainability, and green transition in wine and olive oil production

The 4th Science & Wine World Congress, scheduled for May 28-30, 2025, in Porto, will gather experts and stakeholders in energy, sustainability, and agriculture. This year’s congress, held under the University of Porto’s auspices, will spotlight sustainable practices and the green transition in wine and olive oil production. Selected to coincide with World Energy Day on May 26, the congress emphasizes the significance of green energy solutions for these industries. Attendees can explore energy-efficient practices like renewable energy use, precision agriculture, and waste heat recovery, as well as innovative technologies like digital labeling and smart farming. These advancements not only reduce environmental impacts but also enhance product quality and efficiency.

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