Italian Cooking Earns UNESCO Cultural Heritage Recognition. UNESCO added Italian cooking traditions to its list of intangible cultural heritage, expanding beyond iconic dishes like pizza to include the practices and knowledge behind Italy’s cuisine. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who had championed the campaign, said Italian cuisine represents “culture, tradition, work, wealth” rather than just food. For millions, the decision affirms what they already believed — from Sicilian cannoli to Calabrian ’nduja, Italian food stands among the world’s most cherished cuisines. UNESCO announced the addition during its assembly in New Delhi, praising Italian cooking as a way families and communities connect at home, in schools, and through festivals and gatherings. Egypt’s koshary was also added to the cultural heritage list, joining traditions previously recognized such as Japanese washoku, Malaysia’s breakfast culture, and the French gastronomic meal. Chef Michelangelo Mammoliti told La Repubblica he felt immense pride, noting Italy’s regional cuisines play a central role in shaping cultural identity. Italian industry leaders welcomed the news, hoping it will further strengthen tourism and support the country’s vast food and wine sectors. Filiera Italia CEO Luigi Scordamaglia highlighted the Mediterranean diet’s influence, calling the recognition a victory for the entire Made in Italy supply chain.