8th Castillo de Canena International Award for Olive Oil research «Luis Vañó»

At Castillo de Canena, we believe that extra virgin olive oil is not only an exceptional food, but also a way of life: wellbeing, culture, landscape, health, and everyday enjoyment.

For this reason, we have been promoting the Castillo de Canena International «Luis Vañó» Olive Oil Research Award since 2010, an initiative that recognises and encourages scientific advances related to olive groves and extra virgin olive oil.

The 8th edition of the award has recognised a research project focused on the benefits of EVOO on gut microbiota, a key field in understanding how nutrition directly influences our health and overall balance.

The award-winning study particularly highlights the role of polyphenols naturally present in extra virgin olive oil — compounds with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The research demonstrates how these polyphenols may help support gut microbiota balance and contribute positively to digestive and overall wellbeing.

These findings further reinforce the connection between the Mediterranean diet, health, and quality of life, highlighting the positive impact that high-quality EVOO can have on our daily lives.

Through initiatives such as this, Castillo de Canena reaffirms its commitment to excellence, innovation, and scientific research, promoting a lifestyle where tradition and knowledge move forward together.