The UNESCO recognition of Italian cuisine celebrates living well and also enhances Sardinian craftsmanship, between tradition, agri-food quality and an economic and cultural heritage to be defended
Unesco Italian cuisine, a recognized heritage in the world
The recognition of Italian cuisine as a UNESCO intangible heritage of humanity marks a historical passage for the country. After the Mediterranean diet, a model of life based on healthy eating, taste and creativity is celebrated. UNESCO Italian cuisine thus becomes a global symbol of balance between culture, health and conviviality. A result that involves not only big names in catering, but also thousands of small production companies that keep ancient knowledge every day. Among these, a central role is played by the Sardinian artisan enterprises. official recognition information is available on https://www.unesco.org.
Sardinian craftsmanship protagonist of success
Confartigianato Sardegna also celebrates recognition, underlining the decisive contribution of local businesses. The island can count on a real agri-food “field”, consisting of 274 traditional agri-food products and 9 certified PDO, IGP and STG excellences. 2,669 artisan companies operate in the sector, which guarantee employment to over 9,500 employees and generate an annual turnover of more than 870 million euros. The Unesco Italian cuisine therefore also finds solid roots in Sardinia, where quality and link with the territory remain distinctive elements. Sector data can be consulted on https://www.confartigianato.it.
Tradition, quality and short supply chain
Bread, pasta, cheeses, sweets, meat, fish and drinks tell a tradition that is renewed every day. Sardinian artisan businesses work local raw materials, often from zero-kilometer supply chains, transforming them into products recognized and appreciated even abroad. The strength of this model lies in the continuity of production practices and in the ability to innovate without distorting identity. In this context, UNESCO Italian cuisine also becomes an instrument of economic enhancement, capable of supporting communities and territories.
Defend heritage from globalization and counterfeiting
Alongside satisfaction with recognition, challenges also emerge. Globalization and food counterfeiting represent a concrete threat to such a rich heritage. Protecting UNESCO Italian cuisine means ensuring traceability, quality and transparency. According to Confartigianato Sardegna, it is necessary to invest in training, innovation and digitization to strengthen the competitiveness of companies. Environmental and social sustainability becomes an essential requirement, no longer a simple option. insights on the protection of quality production are available on https://www.mimit.gov.it.
Numbers and territories of island excellence
Sardinian agri-food wealth is distributed throughout the territory. Cagliari, Sassari-Gallura, Nuoro, Oristano and southern Sardinia host hundreds of artisan businesses, often small, but strongly rooted. Sardinia also holds the national primacy for the number of PDO, IGP and STG certified operators, with over 15,000 subjects involved. This production system contributes directly to the value of UNESCO Italian cuisine, making it concrete and daily.
A future between identity and innovation
UNESCO recognition is not a point of arrival, but a responsibility. The future of Sardinian agri-food artisans passes from a balance between the protection of tradition and openness to change. Technological innovation, sustainability and new skills are the levers to tackle global markets without losing authenticity. UNESCO Italian cuisine thus becomes not only a cultural symbol, but also an engine of economic and social development. A living heritage, to be protected and grown over time.
Dining and Cooking