The Dieta Atlántica Foundation was established for an indefinite period on May 11, 2007, under Article 34 of the Spanish Constitution. It is governed by Law 12/2006, of December 1, on foundations of Galician interest, as well as by the applicable legal provisions on foundations.

It was declared a Foundation of health interest by the Order of July 11, 2007 (DOG 19/07/2007) and also a Foundation of Galician interest by the Order of September 20, 2007 (DOG 10/10/2007).

This Foundation was created to promote the study, research, and dissemination of the Atlantic diet for the health and well-being of the population.

The initiative was promoted by the University of Santiago de Compostela, and its Presidency is held by the Rector of this university.

The territorial scope of the Foundation is preferably the Autonomous Community of Galicia, without prejudice to its activities extending throughout the Spanish State and, where relevant, abroad, provided they are related to its foundational purpose.