Italian cuisine becomes 1st to receive UNESCO heritage status
What's the story
Italy's national cuisine has become the world's first gastronomic style to be recognized by UNESCO, the United Nations's cultural body. The decision was confirmed on Wednesday by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. She said this recognition is a testament to Italy's identity and culture, emphasizing that for Italians, cuisine is more than just food or recipes; it's an integral part of their cultural heritage.
Heritage status
Three-year campaign for recognition
The recognition comes after a three-year campaign by Italy's Agriculture Ministry to have its traditional food practices recognized. Pier Luigi Petrillo, one of the editors of Italy's proposal, had said in the initial bid that "the act of cooking in Italy transcends the simple nutritional necessity to become a complex and stratified daily practice." This highlights how integral cooking is to Italian culture and society.
Protection
UNESCO status to protect Italian cuisine
The recognition by UNESCO is expected to help Italy combat "fake" Italian food products. These include prepackaged carbonara sauce, fake olive oil, and products using Italian-sounding names but not made in Italy. Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida said this recognition will not only protect their culinary heritage but also create new opportunities for jobs and wealth in the regions.
Tourism impact
UNESCO status could boost Italian tourism
UNESCO heritage status often brings increased prestige and responsibility to protect cultural treasures. It can also lead to a surge in tourism, something Italy already experiences as one of Europe's top tourist destinations. However, Prime Minister Meloni said this recognition will give the Italian economy a decisive boost and help it reach new heights.
Past contributions
Italy's previous UNESCO intangible cultural heritage contributions
Italy has previously contributed to the list of intangible cultural heritage with manual bell ringing (2024), opera singing (2023), truffle hunting and extraction (2019), Neapolitan pizza makers (2017) and celebrations of big shoulder-borne processional structures (2013). The country was also included in the Mediterranean diet when it was added in 2013. These contributions highlight Italy's rich cultural heritage beyond its renowned cuisine.