Italian Cuisine Officially Enters the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List

Italian Cuisine Officially Enters the UNESCO
Intangible Cultural Heritage List

Italian Cuisine Officially Enters the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List: The recognition arrived on December 10, 2025, during the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee of the 2003 Convention, held in New Delhi.

The application, presented under the title "Italian Cuisine between Sustainability and Biocultural Diversity", received final approval, confirming the positive preliminary evaluation in November. With this inscription, which represents the 21st Italian element on the List, Italian cuisine is the first culinary tradition in the world to be recognized in its entirety and complexity.

The Intergovernmental Committee recognized Italian Cuisine not just as a collection of recipes, but as a "cultural and social mix of culinary traditions" and a daily practice that embodies knowledge, rituals, and gestures passed down over time. UNESCO specifically highlighted:

• The Social and Community Dimension: Cooking in Italy is considered an activity that strengthens bonds, promotes intimacy with food, and offers communities a way to share their history and sense of belonging.
• Sustainability and Biodiversity: The Italian culinary tradition is rooted in anti-waste recipes, respect for ingredients, and the protection of biodiversity, reflecting the cultural richness of the territories.
• Intergenerational Transmission: The practice is a vital channel for lifelong learning, where flavors, skills, and memories are transmitted from generation to generation.

The inscription is not just an honor, but a strategic tool for Italy. The recognition enhances the value of Made in Italy and strengthens the ability to counter phenomena like "Italian Sounding", which is the imitation of Italian products.

Bodies like Casa Artusi, which played a central role in preparing the dossier, have already announced their intention to intensify programs for food education, research, and international cooperation to safeguard and promote this immense cultural heritage globally.

Federcamere underlines the profound economic value of this recognition for the entire national business landscape. The inscription on the UNESCO List represents a powerful tool for promoting Italian excellence worldwide.

The President Maurizio Carnevale issued the following statement: "This recognition is a triumph for all of Italy, a historic moment that goes far beyond the culinary sphere. For the entrepreneurial world, and particularly for the agri-food and hospitality chains, it is a gold standard of quality. The UNESCO seal provides our companies with an unprecedented competitive advantage globally, reinforcing the fight against Italian Sounding and certifying the authenticity of our production processes."