On the occasion of Italy’s participation as Country Partner of the Winter Edition of the Fancy Food Show 2025 in Las Vegas, we are guests of the Italian Pavilion to get to know and observe up close the companies that symbolize Italian excellence in the gastronomic field. During the event, we had the opportunity to interview Filippo Granato, special secretary and councillor for agriculture of the Sicilian Region. Granato shared his thoughts on Sicily’s growing visibility as a European Region of Gastronomy for 2025, stressing the importance of promoting typical local products and the positive impact of gastronomic tourism on the regional economy, as well as the efforts of the Sicilian Region to attract investment in the agri-food sector.
What is the importance of Sicily as a European gastronomy region 2025?
It is a great responsibility, but also a great opportunity to make our Sicilian excellence produced by local companies known throughout Europe and the world.
What are the typical Sicilian products that are growing in the United States?
Bronte pistachios and Nero d’Avola wines are growing strongly. Sicily is very representative for Americans, especially for these products.
What strategies is the region implementing to support these excellences in global markets?
Sicily has a natural advantage because of its excellence. We have returned to participate in major events and fairs, such as Winter Fancy Food and Summer Fancy Food, to make our products known. We want to attack international markets, because those who taste our products fall in love.
How much can gastronomic tourism contribute to the economic and cultural development of Sicily?
It is fundamental. We are working to promote food tourism and incoming U.S. tour operators to introduce Sicilian companies of excellence. We also need to support small and medium-sized companies to grow them.
What can you tell us about the official endorsement of Italian cuisine’s candidacy as a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
We have to thank Minister Lollobrigida for launching this bet. Sicily will help make our typical dishes known and I am optimistic about this candidacy.
Is there a final message you want to share?
Sicilians have the ability to promote our history, traditions and excellence in a positive way. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to make Sicily known!
Thank you, Filippo Granato, and best wishes for a happy birthday!
Thank you!
Many thanks to the Italian Trade Agency, the Specialty Food Association and Universal Marketing for hosting us at this prestigious event.
The article Fancy Food Show 2025: Sicilian contribution to Italian gastronomic heritage according to Filippo Granato comes from TheNewyorkese.
