Terra Delyssa, the trusted extra virgin olive oil brand found in millions of North American pantries, is proud to announce its sponsorship of three major clinical research trials in partnership with the University of Toronto. These studies—CHEAP, REPAIR, and SWITCH—aim to transform the way healthcare providers and individuals approach heart disease, diabetes, and nutrition in everyday life.
As a leader in the Canadian and U.S. olive oil markets, Terra Delyssa has long been a pantry staple known for its smooth flavor, traceability, single origin, and commitment to quality. Now, the brand is taking a bold step forward by supporting innovative nutritional science that may help shape future dietary guidelines and clinical care.
“We believe that healthy eating starts with trust, transparency, and quality,” said Wajih Rekik, CEO of CHO America, the producer of Terra Delyssa. “That’s why Terra Delyssa is proud to support this pioneering research led by the University of Toronto. These trials reflect our mission to make high-quality olive oil part of everyday healthy living—for everyone.”
The Trials
CHEAP Trial
(Coronary Heart Effectiveness Assessment of the Portfolio diet in primary care)
This large-scale, 7-year randomized controlled trial will evaluate the impact of a digital heart health program—delivered through a mobile app and online behavior change curriculum—combined with key heart-healthy foods like Terra Delyssa. Involving 1,100 participants at high risk of cardiovascular disease, the trial will assess the percentage who achieve significant LDL or non-HDL cholesterol reductions at one year, as well as major cardiovascular events over seven years.
REPAIR Trial
(Remission of diabetes using a Plant-based weight loss Intervention)
This one-year trial focuses on achieving diabetes remission in 160 individuals recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Participants will follow a plant-based, low-calorie, high-protein total diet replacement in the weight loss phase, followed by a structured reintroduction of plant-based foods. The primary outcome is diabetes remission, defined as maintaining an HbA1c below 6.5% for at least three months—without the use of diabetes medications.
SWITCH Trial
(Substitution With low ultra-processed soy protein foods In a guideline-based diet intervention for Cardiometabolic Health)
In this 12-week study, researchers will examine how consuming 10 servings of fruits and vegetables daily—with or without ultra-processed soy-based protein foods—affects systolic blood pressure and other cardiometabolic markers. The trial involves 300 adults with hypertension, obesity, and/or type 2 diabetes and integrates dietary guidance via a digital program.
“Nutrition plays a powerful role in preventing and treating chronic disease. These studies are designed to bring evidence-based interventions into the real world, using digital tools and familiar foods people can find at their grocery store,” said Dr. Laura Chiavaroli, Assistant Professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Toronto and Affiliate Scientist at St. Michael’s Hospital. “We’re thrilled to work with a brand like Terra Delyssa that shares our commitment to advancing health through food.”
Why It Matters
In an age where food choices are closely tied to health outcomes, Terra Delyssa’s support of these trials reinforces its role as more than just a cooking staple—it’s a trusted partner in well-being. By collaborating with one of the world’s top research institutions, Terra Delyssa is helping push the boundaries of how food can be used to manage and even reverse chronic disease.
As these trials progress, Terra Delyssa will continue to share updates, findings, and stories from participants and researchers to inspire more people to see what a difference healthy oils—and healthy habits—can make.
Clinical Trials.gov IDs
