On the occasion of Expo Milano 2015
A fatal disease is attacking the ancient olive trees of southern Italy. Will Italian and European authorities be able to take effective action in time to block the spread of the bacteria believed to cause the disease before it spreads throughout Europe and the Mediterranean? The crisis involves scientists, politicians, the olive oil industry and environmental activists, often in sharp disagreement but all responsible for finding a solution to a problem that threatens a landscape and way of life that dates back to biblical times. Following Thomas Simpson’s lecture, culinary specialist and renowned judge of Iron Chef America Mario Rizzotti will offer an olive oil tasting on this occasion. No bread allowed. Not to be missed! You will go home with a better understanding of Italian olive oil.
Thomas Simpson, Associate Professor of Instruction in Italian at Northwestern University, is author of a blog in English dedicated to this emergency: http://xylellacodiro.blogspot.com
Free and open to the public. A reception will follow.