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Evolving Foodways in Morocco: A Review of Dietary Transitions and the Enduring Influence of the Mediterranean Diet
* 1 , 2 , 3 , 1
1  Laboratory of Research and Development in Engineering Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Al-Hoceima, Abdelmalek Essaadi University. Al-Hoceima. Morocco.
2  Intelligent Automation & BioMedGenomics (IABL), Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tangier, Morocco
3  Regional Center for Careers Education and Training. Tangier, Morocco
Academic Editor: Mauro Lombardo

Abstract:

Background: Morocco boasts a rich culinary landscape shaped by regional variations, geography, and historical influences. The traditional Moroccan diet shares key features with the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing fresh produce, unsaturated fats, whole grains, and communal dining. Objective: This review explores the evolving food situation in Morocco, considering both historical transitions and the recent impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: This review examines the evolution of Moroccan dietary patterns from 2001 to 2023. It draws on the existing literature (scholarly articles from databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Research Gate, government reports, and credible online resources) in English, French, and Arabic. The keywords used were Moroccan gastronomy, Mediterranean diet, nutritional intake, food transition, societal changes, globalization, economic development, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The review also considers government initiatives promoting healthy eating practices aligned with the principles of the Mediterranean diet. Results: Moroccan dietary habits have undergone significant transformations over time. Societal changes, globalization, and the COVID-19 pandemic have raised awareness of health-conscious food choices, with a rising preference for local, organic, and nutrient-rich products. Despite these transitions, Moroccans exhibit a strong commitment to preserving their culinary traditions and the core principles of the Mediterranean diet. Conclusion: The Moroccan diet demonstrates remarkable resilience, reflecting a balance between tradition, nutritional needs, and cultural identity. Government initiatives promoting healthy eating through the Mediterranean diet underscore our commitment to a healthier nation. However, further national studies are vital to validate and expand existing knowledge, particularly in light of the dynamic nature of Morocco's nutritional landscape within a global context. This review highlights the need to reconcile the benefits of modernization with preserving Morocco's rich culinary heritage. We plan to update this analysis with data from the upcoming 2024 population census, incorporating new insights into evolving dietary trends.

Keywords: Moroccan diet, food situation, Mediterranean diet, dietary transitions.
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