Tony Loeb

🍋 Cointreau, renowned for liqueurs, debuted the limited-edition Citrus Series, revolutionizing the cocktail world. Master Distiller Carole Quinton collaborated with Corsican farmer Jean-Dominique Valentini, utilizing seedless Corsican pomelos with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. Distilled in Angers, France, the series offers a vibrant bouquet ideal for cocktails. Only 3,000 bottles available, made from 60% recycled glass, the 700 ML bottles with an ABV of 40% are fully vegan and eco-friendly.

🌽 A study titled "Beneficial Effects of Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Molecular Mechanisms Involved" was presented at the University of Milan, revealing that diets rich in high-polyphenol olive oil lead to a healthier metabolic profile. Over 46% of Italians are unaware of olive oil benefits, and 35% consume less than 2 tablespoons a day, despite recommendations of 3-4 tablespoons. The conference, organized by Carapelli Institute - ETS Foundation, aimed to bridge knowledge gaps, especially among younger demographics. The research, a collaboration between universities of Milan, Perugia, Padua, and Naples, demonstrated improved glycemic profiles and reduced diabetes risk, asserting olive oil's role in combatting obesity and related complications. However, 24% of Italians do not know what polyphenols are, and 50% of those under 25 are uninformed. A roundtable discussion highlighted the need for better labeling, dietary education, and the role of general practitioners in improving consumer knowledge.

🏠 Diageo's Learning For Life program, active since 2019 in Italy, has trained about 400 students in bartending and mixology. For 2024/2025, it plans 6 courses in Milan, Turin, and Rome for 132 students. Around 60% of participants find hospitality jobs within a year. A special edition for Ukrainian refugees is set for Rome in 2024. Since its global start in 2008, over 146,000 young people in 35+ countries have been trained through 90+ courses.