As global food trends continue to evolve, the concept of "food sovereignty" has gained traction, particularly in Italy, where national products are increasingly favored. This shift is influenced by various factors, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and tariffs imposed by the United States. These tariffs are a part of the broader "America First" policy, which has roots tracing back to the 19th century and resurfaced under the Trump administration, leading to a significant trade war characterized by retaliatory tariffs.
The historical context of Italy's food sovereignty echoes back to 1935, during the invasion of Ethiopia, when the League of Nations imposed sanctions on Italy. This period saw Italian kitchens transformed into what some have described as "trenches" against an economic siege. The Fascist regime attempted to create an "anti-sanction" cuisine, promoting dishes made from local ingredients like rice, polenta, and various meats, which were meant to evoke a sense of national pride. These dishes included trout salmon with Badoglio, Macallè meatloaf, and a dessert named after Graziani.
This historical narrative is explored in depth in the book “Quando il fascismo dettava la dieta. La propaganda a tavola, tra sovranità alimentare e autarchia” by Professor Enzo R. Laforgia, published by Edizioni People in 2025. Laforgia, who teaches history and philosophy, emphasizes that the Fascist regime's efforts to control food consumption were consistent with its totalitarian nature. He notes, "It might seem inappropriate to convince Italians to adopt a dietary style based on necessity when, during those years, much of the population faced the challenge of eating at least once a day."
In a related discussion, scholars Alberto Grandi and Daniele Soffiati have sparked debate over the authenticity of Italian cuisine. Their book “La cucina italiana non esiste. Bugie e falsi miti sui prodotti ed i piatti considerati tipici” argues that while Italian products are indeed exceptional, the notion that they have ancient origins is misleading. They assert that the narrative surrounding Italian culinary tradition is largely a modern marketing construct.
Meanwhile, a recent study by Affidabile.org, which analyzed global search trends for Italian food from January 2004 to March 2025, reveals that Italian recipes are immensely popular worldwide. The study found that the most searched ingredients include meatballs, sausages, and seasonings, with popular recipes such as fettuccine Alfredo, pasta carbonara, focaccia, ossobuco alla milanese, ragù alla bolognese, and spaghetti all'assassina topping the list.
Interestingly, the highest search volumes for the term "Italian recipe" come from Malta, the United States, and Australia. The study highlights that during the COVID-19 pandemic, interest in Italian recipes soared, peaking at a search volume of 100 in April 2020. It appears that as people spent more time at home, they turned to cooking, with traditional recipes gaining renewed attention.
Among the most sought-after dishes is pollo alla cacciatora, a rustic Tuscan recipe that showcases the use of garlic and rosemary—ingredients that have long been associated with rustic Italian cooking. Historically, this dish was made with homegrown ingredients, reflecting the agricultural practices of Italian farmers. The rise of pollo alla cacciatora in search trends indicates a growing appreciation for traditional, hearty meals.
In addition to traditional recipes, there is a notable increase in interest for modern interpretations of Italian cuisine. The analysis revealed a staggering +2300% rise in searches for "Baked Pasta," which has become a popular dish in many households. This trend reflects a blending of traditional Italian cooking with contemporary preferences, as people seek comfort foods that are easy to prepare.
When it comes to the most popular search terms, "Italian recipe" leads the pack, followed closely by "pizza," "pasta," and "spaghetti." Interestingly, pizza remains the most beloved Italian dish globally, with search volumes steadily increasing since 2004. The peak interest in pizza was recorded in May 2020, coinciding with the pandemic. Countries like Canada, the United States, and Puerto Rico are among the top searchers for pizza, while Italy, Latvia, and Turkey show a greater interest in pasta.
Moreover, the search for pizza has evolved, with variations such as "New York Style Pizza" and "Detroit Pizza" gaining popularity. The New York Style Pizza, known for its thin crust and served by the slice, has become a staple, while the Detroit Pizza, characterized by its deep-dish style, highlights the adaptability of Italian cuisine abroad.
As for pasta, dishes like "Chicken Pasta" and "Baked Pasta" are trending, reflecting a shift toward incorporating diverse ingredients into traditional recipes. The "Gigi Hadid Pasta," a trendy dish inspired by the celebrity, showcases how social media influences culinary trends, particularly among younger generations.
Spaghetti remains a favorite, especially when paired with meatballs or Bolognese sauce. The rise in searches for "Baked Spaghetti" also indicates a growing interest in casseroles and baked dishes, which are often seen as comforting and easy to make.
In conclusion, the landscape of Italian cuisine continues to evolve, balancing tradition with modernity. Whether through the lens of historical narratives or the latest culinary trends, Italian food remains a vibrant and integral part of global dining culture.
