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Archive » May 2026 » Italian food, between economy and culture

Italian food, between economy and culture

Ildegarda Ferraro
May 2026 - n. 5
Keywords: Cibo, economia, cultura
Jel codes: Z10, D12, L66

The food economy is central to the world and particularly in Italy. Because food is not just about eating, it is economy, history, a sense of belonging, ethical vision and culture. Italian cuisine is an intangible cultural heritage Unesco. As the Eurispes Report has made clear, Italy is always more selective and aware at the table. The latest data from the Food Industry Monitor shows an industry growth of 5.9% in 2024 and a rising trend for 2025 and 2026, certainly with the doubts and uncertainties of the current moment. But the food is also culture. As in the case of Pellegrino Artusi, the great lover of Italian cuisine who with his work «Science in cooking and the art of eating well» managed to put together the united Italian table.

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