Italy will be showcasing gourmet food and wine at Fine Food Australia.

The Mediterranean Diet: not just a food list, it is more about cultural identity

‘Mediterranean Diet’ was coined in the mid-1970s by American scientists Ancel and Margaret Keys when, along with their studies, they discovered that this type of diet would boost one’s health. In 2010, UNESCO approved the listing of the Mediterranean Diet in the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognising with this definition the traditional practices, knowledge and skills that have been passed down from generation to generation in many countries of the Mediterranean basin. 

The Mediterranean Diet is more than just a food list or a nutrition label, it is a lifestyle that includes a series of skills, knowledge, and traditions concerning cultivation, harvesting, fishing, conservation, cooking.  Above all, it is about the sharing and consumption of food, where locals play an essential role in preserving traditions.  

Why do we protect the origin of some agri-foods and wines and how are they classified? 

Italy encompasses 20 regions, each with its unique topography, climate, and cultural identity. These factors have contributed to the distinctive winemaking and food traditions that can be found throughout the Italian peninsula and surrounding islands. 

Three European Union schemes of Geographical Indications and traditional specialities, known as Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), and Traditional Specialities Guaranteed (TSG), aim to promote and protect the name and quality standards of agri-food products, safeguarding their production methods, and providing consumers with clear information on characteristics that add value to the product.  

As regards wines, in the 1960s, Italy introduced a classification system which includes four tiers:  

VDT (Table Wine), IGT (Indication of a Specific Geographic Location), DOC (Denomination of Controlled Origin) and DOCG (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin). 

Italy is among the European countries with the largest number of agri-food products and wines with a designation of origin or geographical indication recognised by the European Union.  

What is the Australian market like as far as Made in Italy products are concerned? 

According to Trade Data Monitor (TDM) database on international trade, in 2022 Australia imports from Italy were over 1.1 billion AUD (+15,6% compared to 2021), maintaining its fifth position in the world ranking of Australia’ major trading partners and the first position amongst European countries. Italy market share has remained stable over the years in a range between 4.7- 5%. Over the years, the import of food & beverage products has seen an ongoing growth for Italy, especially in some categories: processed tomatoes, pasta, chocolate, wine, baked products, and cheese. 

With regards to the world of foodservice equipment, in the field of refrigerating or freezing chests and similar equipment, Italy is Australia’ 2nd trade partner behind China. Italy is the leading supplier in Australia of bakery machinery and machinery for the manufacture of pasta and occupies a 3rd position in the field of electric ovens, cooking stoves, grillers, and roasters. Also, to mention its 1st position, ahead of the USA, for electrically operated (non-domestic) machinery and equipment for making hot drinks or for cooking or heating food.  

What Italian products will be showcased? 

Italy Pavilion groups 22 Italian companies with an incredible showcase of high quality and diverse food and beverages. The trade show is an exciting opportunity for Italian businesses to connect with retailers, distributors, and food service providers and to explore opportunities in the Australian market. 

Much loved Italian products such as extra virgin olive oil, flavoured condiments, cured ham, artisanal pasta and ready-made sauces, cheese, wine, will be surely present. There will also be an array of gourmet value-added products including truffle-based products, caviar, aged balsamic vinegar of Modena, just to name a few. Italian biscuits, panettone, chocolates, and nougats, they will add to the Italian showcase a sweet taste! 

Products showcased are designed both for retail and foodservice channels. Discover more!

What initiatives/events are organised to promote Made in Italy products in Australia? 

The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) is the Italian Government Agency specialised in promoting Made in Italy throughout the world, supporting the growth of Italian companies, and contributing to the attraction of foreign investments to Italy. ITA has a longstanding collaboration with major food expos in Italy and organises sponsored buyer programs to bring to these events an extensive number of international buyers with the aim to facilitate trade relationships with Italian companies.  

Simona Bernardini, ITA Trade Commissioner for Australia and New Zealand says: “It’s an amazing opportunity for us to organise a Pavilion together with the Embassy of Italy and we are certain about the great potential to increase the cooperation between the Italian food & beverage industry and ANZ operators.” The Italian showcase will group a wide variety of products, it would be an extraordinary journey across the flavours of Italy!

ITA is exhibiting at this year’s Fine Food Australia. Meet the team and see what products the participating Italian companies have on offer.

Visit Italy Pavilion (located on the lower exhibition hall) this September! Register free here.