SIGEP WORLD celebrates the recognition of Italian Cuisine as a UNESCO Heritage

Italy’s extended agri-food supply chain generates a total value of €707 billion, according to Coldiretti, confirming food as the country’s leading economic asset. A heritage of economic, cultural and social value that reached a historic milestone last December, when Italian Cuisine was officially recognised as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

This extraordinary achievement was celebrated today at SIGEP WORLD, taking place at the Rimini Expo Centre until Tuesday 20 January, and organised by Italian Exhibition Group. SIGEP WORLD stands as a key international platform for foodservice excellence and innovation.

A historic recognition for Italian cuisine

For the first time in its history, UNESCO has recognised a national cuisine as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition goes beyond recipes, embracing an entire cultural system made up of territories, traditions, production chains, artisanal knowledge and the social value of sharing food.

A central role in the round table was played by Pierluigi Petrillo, Director of the UNESCO Chair at Unitelma Sapienza University of Rome and author of the successful nomination dossier. In his speech, he outlined the core principles of the candidacy, explaining the reasons behind UNESCO’s decision and highlighting the future challenges ahead: within five years, Italy will be required to meet the commitments outlined in the nomination in order to retain this prestigious status.

The debate at SIGEP WORLD

Moderated by Federico De Cesare Viola, the talk brought together leading figures from the worlds of gastronomy, education and high-end cuisine:
Maddalena Fossati, Editor-in-Chief of La Cucina Italiana;
Giacomo Bullo, Head of Communication at ALMA – The International School of Italian Cuisine;
Sergio Colalucci, President of the Gelato World Cup;
Sal De Riso, President of AMPI;
and Michelin-starred chef Gennaro Esposito.

The discussion highlighted Italian cuisine as a living ecosystem, capable of blending tradition and innovation, education and creativity, with sustainability and international outreach at its core.

SIGEP WORLD as a platform for culture and vision

With this event, SIGEP WORLD further strengthens its role not only as a leading trade show for foodservice, but also as a hub for cultural dialogue and strategic vision, showcasing the value of Italian food across its economic, social and identity dimensions.

The UNESCO recognition of Italian Cuisine marks an important milestone, but above all represents a starting point for shaping the future of a heritage that belongs to Italy and to the world.