The octopus It's much more than a Galician delicacy or a simple sea creature: it's linked to tradition, science, and contemporary gastronomy. Its presence not only on the plates of Galician homes and restaurants, but also in celebrations and debates, has turned it into a symbol with multiple dimensions, ranging from the cultural to the nutritional and environmental.
Fairs and festivals dedicated to octopus Year after year, they demonstrate the passion this cephalopod inspires. In Spain, especially in Galicia, octopus is the star of important events that attract both locals and visitors in search of good food and tradition.
Festivals and fairs: the octopus as a symbol of identity and celebration
In places like Durango, Octopus Fair turns Ezkurdi Square into a focal point of Galician gastronomy. For several days, visitors can savor Octopus, scallops, mussels, ham, meats and desserts, pairing these delicacies with albariño o brookThe opening usually begins with a free tasting, and the event runs from morning until night, providing an opportunity to informally learn about Galician traditions and products.
One of the most prominent exponents is the Octopus Festival of O Carballiño, which will celebrate its 2025rd edition in 63. This festival, recognized as one of International Tourist Interest, pays tribute to the Italian town of Noventa Padovana, reflecting cultural cooperation and fusion. This edition's poster symbolizes this fusion: an octopus tentacle wrapped around a fork, simulating spaghetti on a wooden board, accompanied by salt, oil and paprikaNearly three weeks of activities are planned, including Tributes to emigrants, DO Ribeiro wine tastings, giant octopus tapas, and popular competitionsIn addition, it incorporates new features such as a new location for popular food and expands the program, reinforcing a festive and sustainable atmosphere in a century-old municipal park.
The nutritional value of octopus and its impact on health
El Galician octopus It stands out not only for its flavor, but also for its nutritional contribution. Numerous studies, such as those conducted by the University of Oxford, indicate that its consumption can offer benefits at the level cognitive and memory. Octopus meat contains Lean proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, vitamin B12, selenium, and vitamins E and BThese nutrients are essential for preventing cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and B vitamins appear to slow brain atrophy and enhance mental function.
Also, the octopus low in calories and fat and its wealth in minerals such as iron, zinc or phosphorus make it a recommended food for different diets. It contributes to prevent anemia, cardiovascular problems, and migraines. Its traditional preparation, which combines extra virgin olive oil, paprika and potato, increases its healthy value by providing fiber and unsaturated fats, promoting gradual absorption of nutrients.
Science: Amazing Sensory Capabilities
The fascination with octopus doesn't end with gastronomy. Recent studies from Harvard University have revealed that these animals have an amazing ability to detect chemical signals through their arms. Each sucker contains thousands of sensory cells, which allow them to "taste" their surroundings through contact. This chemosensory system is crucial for octopuses to decide which prey is suitable for eating or for mothers to recognize and remove non-viable eggs from the nest.
In addition to studying their behavior in the laboratory, the Harvard team discovered that octopuses reject prey or eggs covered in certain bacteria thanks to these specialized receptors. This finding highlights the importance of microbiomes in animal interactions and demonstrates the sophistication of the octopus' nervous system, which features neurons distributed throughout its arms. The research suggests that this ability to interpret chemical signals is a key evolutionary adaptation for its survival in the marine environment.
Controversy over octopus aquaculture and animal welfare
The growing presence of the octopus in culture and science contrasts with the social and political debate about its aquaculture breeding. Recently, political parties such as Sumar, ERC and Podemos They have presented a proposal in Congress to prohibit the reproduction of octopus in farms for reasons of animal welfareThey argue that octopuses have a high cognitive capacity, being able to feel emotional pain, plan, remember, and anticipate situations. According to this proposal, the lack of adequate methods of slaughter without suffering, combined with the environmental impact of intensive aquaculture, justifies prohibiting its breeding in captivity, as well as its trade and transport from these facilities.
The debate also addresses sustainability: feeding octopuses on farms increases pressure on other species. de peces, raising questions about the efficiency and ecological impact of this type of production.
The octopus remains a center of public and scientific attention due to its biological characteristics, its value in gastronomy, and the ethical dilemmas posed by its use in the food industry. Between festivals, research, and legislative proposals, this cephalopod continues to generate reflection, admiration, and new questions about its role in culture and nature.