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Italian cuisine has been officially recognized as a cultural treasure by Unesco, the United Nations' cultural agency. This new status means that Italian cooking traditions, and the way they are passed down through generations, are now considered part of the world's 'intangible cultural heritage. ' While pizza was already on Unesco's list, this new recognition covers the broader traditions and practices of Italian cooking.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has been advocating for this honor since she was elected, expressed her excitement. She said, 'For us Italians, cuisine is not just food or a collection of recipes. It is so much more: it is culture, tradition, work, wealth. ' Many fans of Italian food, from those who love Sicilian Cannoli to Calabrian 'Nduja, feel that this award simply confirms what they already believed: Italian cuisine is the best in the world.

The announcement was made during a Unesco assembly in Delhi, India. Unesco described Italian cuisine as a way for people to connect with family and community, whether at home, in schools, or during festivals and social gatherings. This recognition is not just about the food itself, but also about the traditions, skills, and social practices that surround it.

Other countries have also had their food traditions recognized by Unesco. For example, Egypt's spicy dish Koshary was added to the list this year. In the past, Japan's Washoku, Malaysia's breakfast culture, and the French gastronomic meal have all been honored.

Michelangelo Mammoliti, a well-known Italian chef, told the newspaper La Repubblica that he felt a great sense of pride, both as an Italian and as a professional chef. He pointed out that regional cuisine has a huge impact on Italy's culture and traditions. His restaurant, La Rei Natura in Piedmont, was recently awarded three Michelin stars, making it the only new restaurant in Italy to receive this honor in the 2026 guide.

Italy's food industry leaders and government officials hope that this new recognition will attract even more tourists to the country. Italy already welcomes about 80 million international visitors every year. Luigi Scordamaglia, CEO of Filiera Italia, which represents food and wine companies, said the Unesco award is a success for the entire 'Made in Italy' supply chain.

Scordamaglia also talked about the Mediterranean diet, which is known for promoting good health. He said, 'When we talk about the Mediterranean diet, we're talking about our wonderful Italian cuisine, which shares its principles, first and foremost those of balance and variety. '

Unesco also added other traditions to its list, such as swimming pool culture in Iceland, Cuban Son music and dance, and the art of making and playing the lahuta in Albania. But for now, Italian cooking is being celebrated around the world as a unique and important part of global culture.