Italian cuisine has officially been awarded a distinguished cultural heritage status by UNESCO, the cultural agency of the United Nations. While popular dishes like pizza had already secured a spot on UNESCO’s list of “intangible cultural heritage,” this new designation focuses on the traditions and practices of Italian cooking as a whole.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has advocated for the recognition of Italy’s culinary arts since assuming office, expressed the significance of this achievement, stating:
“For us Italians, cuisine is not just food or a collection of recipes. It is so much more: it is culture, tradition, work, wealth.”
For the countless fans of Italian cuisine worldwide, this announcement validates their long-held belief that from Sicilian Cannoli to Calabrian ‘Nduja, Italian food holds a special place in the culinary landscape.
UNESCO’s announcement and cultural significance
The announcement came during a UNESCO assembly meeting held in New Delhi on Wednesday. The cultural agency emphasized that Italian cuisine serves as a vital means of fostering connections among family and community, whether at home, in educational institutions, or through festive occasions and social gatherings.
In addition to Italian cuisine, UNESCO also recognized Koshary, a popular Egyptian dish made from lentils, rice, and pasta, as part of its list of intangible cultural heritage.
A spokesperson from UNESCO noted that various countries have had their unique food-related practices and traditions acknowledged, citing examples such as Japan’s Washoku, Malaysia’s breakfast culture, and the gastronomic meals of France.
Industry reactions and the impact on tourism
Chef Michelangelo Mammoliti, speaking with the Rome-based daily La Repubblica, shared his pride regarding this recognition, both personally as an Italian and professionally as a chef. He stated,
“Italy is one of the nations where regional cuisine has a very big impact on culture and traditions.”
Mammoliti is the owner of La Rei Natura, a restaurant in Piedmont that recently earned a three-star rating in the 2026 Michelin Guide.
Italy’s industry leaders and government officials anticipate that this UNESCO designation will further enhance tourism in a country that already attracts 80 million international visitors each year. Luigi Scordamaglia, CEO of Filiera Italia, an organization representing the Italian food and wine sector, referred to this recognition as a victory for the entire “Made in Italy” supply chain. He underscored the Mediterranean diet’s role in public health, stating,
“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.”
Other cultural practices, including Icelandic swimming pool culture, the Cuban Son music and dance, and the art of making the lahuta from Albania, were also included in UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.