Loredana Cortese

Dr. Loredana Cortese


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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23 August 2024 in Nutrients
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
Andrea ContiAndrea Conti
Andrea Conti
AOANNALISA OPIZZI
ANNALISA OPIZZI
JBJefferson Galapon Binala
Jefferson Galapon Binala
LCLoredana Cortese
Loredana Cortese
FBFrancesco Barone-Adesi
Francesco Barone-Adesi
Massimiliano PanellaMassimiliano Panella
Massimiliano Panella
Global warming poses a significant threat to our planet, with the food sector contributing up to 37% of total greenhouse gas emissions. This study aimed to assess the climate change impact and healthiness of menus in a long-term care facility in Italy. We analyzed two 28-day cyclical menus using the carbon footprint (CF) and the Modified EAT-Lancet Diet Score (MELDS) to evaluate adherence to the Planetary Health Diet (PHD). Monte Carlo simulations were employed to explore 20,000 daily menu permutations. Results showed that the mean GHGEs of spring/summer and autumn/winter daily menus were 2.64 and 2.82 kg of CO2eq, respectively, with 99% of menus exceeding the 2.03 kg of CO2eq benchmark. Only 22% of menus were adherent to the PHD, with MELDSs ranging from 12 to 29. A strong inverse association between the CF and adherence to the PHD was observed. These findings suggest significant potential for reducing the CFs of meals served in nursing homes while promoting adherence to a planetary diet, presenting an opportunity to set new standards in caregiving and environmental sustainability.