Raúl Compés, Director of CIHEAM Zaragoza, took part in the Forum on Milk and Dairy Derivatives organized by the Mediterranean Diet Foundation (Fundación Dieta Mediterránea), held in Madrid on 11 and 12 July. The aim of this Forum was to highlight the important role of these products in the Mediterranean Diet, not always as clear as the role played by other products in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Even though their nutritional properties are well known, some aspects are still controversial, maybe because the messages conveyed to consumers lack a sound scientific and technical basis, and sustainability-related factors are less studied.

The Director of CIHEAM Zaragoza emphasized the need to study the productive models and address aspects of organization and distribution to determine the sustainability of the dairy value chain. Also, given the doubts expressed by the public and consumers about the environmental impact of livestock production, he pointed out the need to encourage working groups in the sector to address these issues specifically, especially regarding climate change. Only in this way will it be possible to help companies and farms respond to this challenge and improve their position in the eyes of the public and consumers. He also pointed towards the need to increase awareness of the wealth of Spanish cheeses and other dairy derivatives in the international markets.