The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) and the Embassy and Consulates of Italy in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) launched the Italian Culinary Program for the fourth consecutive year.
Since its inception, the Italian Culinary Program has reached 25 culinary schools across China, engaging with over 5,330 students through the master class series, 3,197 students through Italian Culinary Workshops, and 67 culinary school instructors through the Italian Culinary Experience. Following this year’s launch, the program will have expanded to 31 schools.
This initiative has garnered significant acclaim from partner schools, receiving widespread positive feedback. “The schools we have partnered with have expressed great appreciation for the program’s content and structure, contributing to its growing reputation,” says ITA in an official statement.
Looking ahead to the 2024 edition, the Italian Trade Agency welcomes new schools to the Italian Culinary Program’s expanding network. Moreover, “the collaboration with two schools that have proven to be exceptional partners in previous editions is set to continue as their continued participation is a testament to the program’s quality and impact,” ITA says.
The Italian Culinary Program’s three key components:
- Master Class: Created in collaboration with ALMA – The School of Italian Culinary Arts, this series features six video lessons covering various aspects of Italian cuisine, such as pasta, cheese, olive oil, bread, pizza, and gelato.
- Italian Culinary Workshops: These sessions provide hands-on experiences to complement the Master Class lessons. Workshops will take place at partner schools throughout 2024, allowing students to interact with industry experts and apply their knowledge.
- Italian Culinary Experience: This component is designed to educate instructors at partner culinary institutes, providing them with a comprehensive framework for teaching Italian culinary arts. Since its inception, the Italian Culinary Experience has always been hosted in Shanghai, and the 2024 workshop will once again take place in this vibrant city, offering a platform for educators to learn from industry leaders and share best practices.
THE ITALIAN CULINARY HERITAGE
Italian Cuisine has been recently nominated to be included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list—a testament to the unique blend of tradition and innovation that defines Italian cooking. The Italian Culinary Program reflects this heritage by sharing the essence of Italian cuisine with culinary students across China. From homemade pasta passed down through generations to wood-fired pizza from iconic trattorias, the program brings the best of Italy’s culinary legacy to the forefront, inspiring a new generation of chefs and food professionals.
Since the signing of the EU-China landmark Geographical Indications agreement in 2020, the Italian Trade Agency has been committed to promoting Italian quality products in China with a particular focus on PGI products. Out of the 100 European products listed in the agreement, 26 are Italian, covering wines, balsamic vinegars, cheeses, meat products, etc., making Italy the most represented country.
Through the Italian Culinary Program, ITA wants to introduce even more Italian GI products to Chinese consumers, allowing participants to experience and savor the unique flavors and traditions of Italian cuisine. This initiative helps transform the program into a truly immersive experience, highlighting the quality and authenticity of Italian goods.
Through the Italian Culinary Program, ITA aims to inspire future professionals in the Chinese food and beverage industry while promoting Italy’s unique gastronomic heritage.