Young People Explored the Quality, Culture, and Mythological Journey of Olive Oil

As part of its efforts to support agricultural production, promote awareness of healthy food, and preserve local values, Bornova Municipality organized an Olive Oil Tasting Event. The event was held with strong participation at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Bornova Municipality Uğur Mumcu Cultural and Arts Center.

Students from Ege University’s Faculty of Agriculture, Faculty of Letters, and Department of Food Engineering, as well as students from Bornova Anatolian High School, attended the event. Bringing together participants from different disciplines and age groups enabled olive oil to be addressed not only as a food product but also as a cultural, historical, and economic value.

Emphasis on Quality and Conscious Consumption in Olive Oil

During the training session, Food Engineer İnci Özer from the İzmir Branch of the Chamber of Food Engineers (TMMOB) provided comprehensive information on olive oil quality criteria, proper tasting techniques, and sensory analysis methods. Participants had the opportunity to experience firsthand the nuances of distinguishing high-quality olive oil.

From Mythology to the Present: The Olive

Author Gülşah Elikbank, in her presentation held within the scope of the International Mythology Film Festival, shared information about the festival and delivered a compelling talk on the place of the olive in mythology and its cultural significance. Elikbank emphasized that throughout history, the olive has symbolized peace, abundance, and wisdom, holding an important place in various civilizations.

Strong Support for Nature and Sustainable Agriculture

Özcan Gökoğlu, İzmir Provincial Representative of the TEMA Foundation, who also attended the event, highlighted the vital importance of protecting olive groves for the sustainability of agricultural production. He stated that Bornova Municipality’s efforts in this field contribute significantly to raising environmental awareness.

Mayor Eşki: “The Olive Is the Memory of These Lands”

Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki underlined the agricultural and cultural significance of the event, stating:
“Olives and olive oil are not only economic assets of these lands but also part of their cultural memory. As Bornova Municipality, we attach great importance to initiatives that support agriculture, protect producers, and introduce healthy food to our youth. Through such events, we both encourage conscious consumption and carry our local agricultural values into the future.”

Bornova Municipality continues to organize initiatives focused on agriculture, the environment, and healthy living, aiming to raise awareness particularly among younger generations and strengthen local values.