Sicily is in the running for the prestigious award of “Gastronomic Region of Europe 2025.” The European commission Igcat (International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism) has arrived on the island to evaluate local gastronomic excellence. The candidacy was submitted by Dos, chaired by Massimo Todaro, which brings together the Sicilian protection consortia, with the full support of the Sicilian Region.

The Mission of the Igcat Commission in Sicily

The goal of this initiative is to celebrate Sicily’s gastronomic richness and promote its cultural identity through food. The independent Igcat commission is in Sicily for a weeklong tour, an extraordinary journey through the culinary delights of the island. Today’s stop is in the province of Ragusa, known as the most agricultural province in southern Italy.

Visit to Corfilac Laboratories and Nature Project

The commissioners were warmly welcomed by director Salvatore Cascone at Progetto Natura, a prominent institution in Ragusano DOP cheese production. Progetto Natura is the largest milk collection cooperative in Sicily and is a pillar in the island’s dairy tradition. During the visit, members of the Igcat committee explored Corfilac’s scientific laboratories and cheese maturing warehouses, appreciating the dedication and passion with which this age-old tradition is preserved.

Meetings with Protection Consortia

In the auditorium room, representatives of the Consorzi di tutela del Ragusano Dop, Pomodoro di Pachino Igp, Carota di Ispica Igp, and Olio Dop Monti Iblei illustrated their efforts to protect and promote traditional Sicilian products. Afterwards, the committee moved to Modica to meet with the top management of the Consorzio del Cioccolato di Modica Igp at the chocolate museum. These meetings were crucial in demonstrating the diversity and richness of the island’s food and wine offerings.

A Bright Future for Sicily

The Igcat commission will continue its visits to Sicily to carefully evaluate the candidacy. The island hopes to be proclaimed “Gastronomic Region of Europe 2025,” a title that would open new opportunities to celebrate Sicilian culture and gastronomy, attracting visitors from around the world.

With this candidacy, Sicily aims not only to enhance its gastronomic excellence but also to strengthen its cultural identity by offering a unique experience that combines history, tradition and culinary innovation.

Don’t miss upcoming updates on Sicily’s candidacy and discover the gastronomic wonders this remarkable land has to offer.