Italian Cuisine, More Than Pizza, Joins UNESCO Heritage List

• UNESCO added the range and ritual of Italian cuisine to its intangible cultural heritage list on December 10.
• Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni celebrated the recognition, stating it honors Italian identity, culture, and tradition.
• This recognition goes beyond previous listings for pizza-making and espresso, encompassing the entire scope of Italian cuisine.
• The Italian government proposed "cucina italiana" in 2023, noting it's the first time an entire nation's cuisine has been recognized.
• Restaurateurs highlight the role of women, family traditions, and local ingredients in shaping Italy's culinary heritage.

Why It Matters: UNESCO recognition elevates Italian cuisine beyond food to global cultural heritage.