By Kathleen Pokrud
In December 2025, UNESCO officially inscribed Italian cuisine onto the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The designation recognises Italian cuisine as a profound expression of national identity, as a heritage composed not only of recipes, but also of ancestral knowledge, hospitality and traditions passed down through generations. Elite+ spoke with Ms Paola Guida, Trade Commissioner of the Italian Trade Agency in Bangkok, to discuss the enduring strength of Italian gastronomy.
Ms Guida began by noting, “Italian cuisine has always been one of the most powerful expressions of our culture. It reflects not only culinary traditions but also the values, history and regional diversity that define Italy. Food is deeply embedded in our everyday life, with recipes passed down through generations as a way of preserving identity and community.
“The recognition of Italian cuisine as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage aligns closely with Italy’s cultural diplomacy. It positions gastronomy as a cultural bridge that connects people and fosters mutual understanding between nations.”
She further highlighted that this perspective echoes the Mediterranean Diet, recognised by UNESCO in 2010, which frames food as a cultural practice rooted in sustainability, biodiversity and shared traditions.
Italian cuisine already enjoys global appreciation, and Ms Guida believes the UNESCO recognition will further elevate Italy’s international brand. “The newly awarded status adds a cultural dimension that strengthens the global value of ‘Made in Italy’, reinforcing its association with quality, authenticity and heritage.
“It underscores that Italian gastronomy is not simply a collection of popular dishes, but a cultural system shaped by regional traditions, local ingredients and centuries of knowledge. From a marketing perspective, this recognition enhances the value of authentic Italian products, including those protected under Geographical Indications (GI). These certifications ensure authenticity and help international consumers distinguish genuine Italian products from imitations, strengthening trust and global competitiveness.”
On balancing tradition with innovation, Ms Guida emphasised that evolution has always been part of Italy’s culinary identity. “Italian gastronomy has continually evolved while remaining deeply rooted in tradition. Contemporary innovation often builds upon traditional practices rather than replacing them.
“Today, chefs reinterpret regional recipes using modern techniques, refined presentation and more sustainable approaches while preserving the identity of the dish and the quality of its ingredients. This balance allows Italian cuisine to evolve globally while maintaining its cultural heritage. Innovation becomes a continuation of tradition, ensuring both relevance and authenticity.”
Ms Guida also sees significant economic potential arising from the UNESCO recognition. “By highlighting Italian cuisine as cultural heritage, it increases global awareness of authenticity, quality and tradition. This creates new market opportunities for producers and exporters by reinforcing consumer confidence in genuine Italian products.
“For restaurateurs and chefs, it adds value by positioning Italian cuisine not only as a culinary experience, but also as a cultural one. In markets such as Thailand, where interest in Italian cuisine continues to grow, this recognition can further support demand for authentic products and dining experiences. The Italian Trade Agency continues to promote Italian food culture and support businesses in expanding internationally.”
She added that the recognition will further strengthen Italian cuisine’s role as a living heritage that connects communities worldwide. “Italian cuisine already connects communities through restaurants, chefs and shared culinary traditions. UNESCO recognition increases global awareness and appreciation of authentic Italian food culture. In countries like Thailand, Italian restaurants and culinary events already play an important role in cultural exchange. Greater recognition can deepen these connections and support demand for authentic ingredients.”
Ms Guida concluded, “Italian cuisine is more than food; it is a way of life that reflects our culture and values. Through the UNESCO recognition process, we hope to highlight not only the quality and authenticity of Italian gastronomy, but also its role as a living heritage that connects people and communities. At the same time, we believe that preserving tradition goes hand in hand with embracing innovation and sustainability. By promoting authentic Italian cuisine globally, we aim to encourage greater appreciation of cultural diversity and responsible consumption as a bridge between cultures.”
