On 5 June 2025, ahead of World Oceans Day, Delicius hosted the fourth edition of Be Blue – The Sea Conference at Villa Necchi Campiglio. The event serves as a platform for dialogue, bringing together the FMCG industry, institutions and the academic world to encourage a shared reflection on the role of the sea in sustainability, nutrition and prevention, in line with the goals of the 2030 Agenda.
It was an afternoon of discussion and new perspectives moderated by Cristina Parodi, who guided the audience through data, scientific insights, business case studies and new opportunities for collaboration across supply chains.
The Longevity Nutrition Program
Central to the discussion was the Longevity Nutrition Program a project developed by Delicius in collaboration with the Italian National Institute for Cardiovascular Research (INRC).
Through this programme, Delicius promotes the regular consumption of oily fish – particularly sardines and mackerel – as key allies in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
The speakers
- Matteo Bonù of NielsenIQ Italy opened the session with an analysis of consumer behaviour: wellbeing is increasingly central to food choices, but consumers are looking for clarity, tangible benefits and products that align with their values.
- Irene Rizzoli, CEO of Delicius, and Professor Francesco Fedele, President of INRC, presented the Longevity project, highlighting how clinical research and entrepreneurial vision can work together to deliver tangible public health benefits.
- Professor Alessandra Dei Cas shared findings from the Cardiosepa clinical study, explaining how four portions of oily fish per week can improve Omega-3 levels and vascular health, thanks to the role of endothelial progenitor cells.
- Professor Sara Panseri, Associate Professor of Inspection of Food of Animal Origin at the University of Milan, underlined the safety and quality of tinned oily fish products, noting their low levels of contaminants due to the short life cycle of these species.
The round table – from theory to retail reality
The second part of the event featured a discussion between industry and retail, with contributions from:
- Roberta De Natale, Quality and Sustainability Manager – Gruppo Crai
- Letizia Mastroianni, Buying & Sustainability Director – ALDI Italia
- Astrid Palmieri, Corporate Sustainability Director – Esselunga S.p.A.
- Andrea Maggioni, General Manager Development – Delicius Rizzoli S.p.A.
The discussion focused on how to make longevity accessible and relevant for consumers, from evolving product offerings to changing consumer expectations, and the most effective forms of collaboration between industry and retail.
Looking ahead
To close the afternoon, Federico Capeci, CEO of Kantar Italy and Spain, offered an in-depth perspective on generational attitudes to wellbeing. Younger generations prioritise balance and sustainability, while adults focus more on prevention. His concluding message was clear: we must build bridges between generations through shared values and practices.
Be Blue is just the beginning
The conference concluded with a convivial moment in the villa’s garden, where a Longevity-themed aperitivo offered an opportunity to continue conversations, exchange ideas and build new connections.
Thank you to all speakers, scientific partners and participants.
Delicius continues its journey, committed to promoting a food culture grounded in health, responsibility and respect for the sea.
