Italian cuisine has been added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage lists. The decision came on Wednesday at a meeting of the UN agency’s Intergovernmental Committee in New Delhi.

It is the first time an entire national cuisine, rather than a single dish or tradition, has been granted world heritage status. Delegates greeted the decision with “long applause” as the bid was accepted from among 60 applications submitted by 56 countries.

The committee described Italian cuisine as a “cultural and social blend of culinary traditions” and “a way to care for oneself and others, express love, and rediscover one’s cultural roots, offering communities an outlet to share their history and describe the world around them.”

UNESCO said Italian culinary practice is “a communal activity that emphasizes intimacy with food, respect for ingredients, and shared moments around the table.” It added that the tradition “is rooted in anti-waste recipes and the transmission of flavours, skills and memories across generations.”

Sharing food is central to the practice, whether at home, in schools or during festivals and social gatherings. “People of all ages and genders participate, exchanging recipes, suggestions and stories,” UNESCO noted, adding that grandparents often pass down dishes to younger generations.

Knowledge is shared both informally and through formal education. “The knowledge and skills related to the element are transmitted both informally within families and formally in schools and universities,” the committee said.

UNESCO added that the practice “fosters social inclusion while promoting well-being and offering a channel for lifelong, intergenerational learning. It also strengthens bonds, encourages sharing, and promotes a sense of belonging.”

The recognition highlights Italian cuisine as a living tradition that continues to connect communities and preserve cultural identity.