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​The original AI ( Authentic Italian ) ​

​Authentic Italian
​​The original AI ( Authentic Italian )

Authentic Italian: A Taste of Tradition and Expertise

Authentic Italian is your go-to destination for discovering the rich flavors and stories behind Italy’s most cherished culinary treasures. From wine, cheese, and olive oil to cured meats, pasta, pistachios, and più, the site celebrates all things authentically Italian. Rooted in my personal Italian heritage and shaped by decades of experience in the food industry—including cheese importing—Authentic Italian blends passion with expertise to bring the essence of Italy to your table.
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Italy made every Italian, and those of us with Italian heritage
proud with the 2026 Winter Olympics 

​Foods from Italy

A Taste of Tradition and Expertise
​
Authentic Italian is your go-to destination for discovering the rich flavors and stories behind Italy’s most cherished culinary treasures. From wine, cheese, and olive oil to cured meats, pasta, pistachios, and più, the site celebrates all things authentically Italian. Rooted in my personal Italian heritage and shaped by decades of experience in the food industry—including cheese importing—Authentic Italian blends passion with expertise to bring the essence of Italy to your table.

Ask Professor John ...
Profiles of family and local businesses of Italy

​Home | Shop |  About us | Health Benefits | Amalfi Coast | How its Made | Contact Us | Help Videos Travel Blog

​History
The farm was founded in 1950 by Mr. DeGregorio with a mission to highlight an ancient technique of olive oil making in a region that has been producing olive oil since 3000 BC. The farm is in the small town of Montesarchio, Italy and is 100% family owned and operated by the 3rd generation. We highlight the Peranzana olive and naturally produce a Monocultivar EVOO, meaning one type of olive, in a cold pressed process preserving the many natural health benefits of true EVOO. We have been recognized and nominated as one of the world’s best EVOO by Leone d’Oro International Competition Award for two years in a row. Our mission is to carry on our grandfather’s passion, by bringing the flavor of our ancient land to your table one bottle at a time.

I just purchased this dipping plate from italy.

AMALFI - Monocultivar Extra Virgin Olive Oil 8.4fl.oz (250ml) in a Hand Crafted Ceramic Bottle Regular price $40.00
Monocultivar EVOO has been harvested between November 2025 and January 2026 and the range of Polyphenols count varies between 1,100 and 1,300

Click to buy Made In Italy on Amazon

Ask Professor John ...
Iconic founders behind Italian food companies

Here are some of the most iconic founders behind food manufacturers founded and rooted in Italy—people whose names are inseparable from Italian grocery shelves worldwide. I’ve focused on true Italian-origin brands (many still family‑owned) and identified the founders and what made them iconic.

   Pasta & Grains
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Pietro Barilla Sr. — Barilla (1877, Parma)

• Product legacy: Pasta, bakery products
• Why iconic: Started as a small bread and pasta shop and built the world’s largest pasta company, helping industrialize pasta while keeping it Italian at heart. [en.wikipedia.org], [barilla.com]

Filippo Giovanni De Cecco — De Cecco (1886, Abruzzo)

• Product legacy: Premium dry pasta
• Why iconic: Invented low‑temperature drying, preserving flavor and texture—still a gold standard today. [en.wikipedia.org], [dececco.com]

🍅 Tomatoes & Preserves

Callisto & Marcellino Mutti — Mutti (1899, Parma region)

• Product legacy: Tomato paste, passata, peeled tomatoes
• Why iconic: Elevated tomatoes to a single‑ingredient obsession, pioneering quality controls and iconic packaging like tomato paste in tubes. [en.wikipedia.org], [mutti-parma.com]

🍫 Confectionery & Sweets

Pietro Ferrero — Ferrero (1946, Alba)

• Product legacy: Nutella, Ferrero Rocher, Kinder
• Why iconic: Created gianduja‑based spreads during post‑war scarcity, laying the foundation for Nutella and a global confectionery empire. [en.wikipedia.org], [ferrero.com]

Domenico Loacker — Loacker (1925, South Tyrol)

• Product legacy: Wafers and chocolate biscuits
• Why iconic: Combined Alpine dairy traditions with Italian craftsmanship to create Europe’s most recognizable wafers. [en.wikipedia.org]

☕ Coffee

Luigi Lavazza — Lavazza (1895, Turin)

• Product legacy: Espresso, coffee blends
• Why iconic: Invented the concept of coffee blending, defining modern Italian espresso culture. [en.wikipedia.org], [lavazzagroup.com]

Alfonso Bialetti — Bialetti (1919, Crusinallo)

• Product legacy: Moka pot (coffee preparation)
• Why iconic: Though not food, he revolutionized how Italians consume coffee at home, shaping daily ritual worldwide. [wikiwand.com]

🧀 Dairy & Cheese

Egidio Galbani — Galbani (1882, Lombardy)

• Product legacy: Mozzarella, ricotta, mascarpone
• Why iconic: Industrialized fresh cheese production while keeping it accessible to everyday Italians. [en.wikipedia.org]

🫒 Oils, Vinegars & Condiments

Giovanni Ponti — Ponti (1867, Lombardy)

• Product legacy: Wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar
• Why iconic: Helped standardize and export Italian vinegar traditions long before “balsamic” became global. [en.wikipedia.org]

🍪 Biscuits & Pantry Sweets

Angelo Mattei — Mulino Bianco (1975, under Barilla)

• Product legacy: Biscuits, breakfast items
• Why iconic: Created a brand that romanticized Italian family life and breakfast culture globally. [en.wikipedia.org]

🏛️ Why These Founders Matter
These individuals:

• Turned local crafts into national staples
• Balanced industrial scale with cultural identity
• Created brands Italians still trust—and often grew up with

In Italy, brands don’t replace tradition — they protect it.
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Nutella was started by Pietro Ferrero, an Italian pastry maker from Alba, Italy.
Quick history

• 1946 – Pietro Ferrero created a cocoa-and-hazelnut paste called Giandujot, designed as an affordable chocolate alternative after World War II, when cocoa was scarce.
• 1951 – The recipe was refined into a spreadable version called Supercrema.
• 1964 – Pietro’s son, Michele Ferrero, improved the formula again and renamed it Nutella, launching it commercially.

Today, Nutella is produced by the Ferrero Group, one of the world’s largest confectionery companies.

Italy is renowned for its high-quality food products, and several of its exports are highly sought after worldwide. Some of the largest food exports from Italy include:

1. Wine: Italy is one of the world's top wine producers and exporters, with famous varieties like Chianti, Prosecco, and Barolo[1].
2. Pasta: Italian pasta, such as spaghetti and penne, is a staple in many households globally[1].
3. Cheese: Italy exports a wide range of cheeses, including Parmigiano Reggiano, Mozzarella, and Gorgonzola[1].
4. Olive Oil: Italian olive oil is prized for its quality and flavor, making it a significant export product[1].
5. Processed Tomatoes: Products like canned tomatoes and tomato sauces are also major exports[1].
6. Apples: Italy is a leading exporter of apples, particularly from the Trentino-Alto Adige region[1].

​These products are celebrated for their quality and authenticity, contributing to Italy's reputation in the global food market.

References
[1] Imports and exports in Italy - statistics & facts | Statista

High-quality Italian butter is a hidden gem in the culinary world. Unlike French or Irish butters, which are explicitly churned to be stand-alone stars with high fat and salt, traditional premium Italian butter is a byproduct of Italy's famous cheese-making traditions.

The absolute best Italian butters are typically un-salted and cultured, known for a delicate, sweet, and clean milk flavor.

The Secret: The Parmigiano Connection
The highest tier of Italian butter is often labeled Burro di Parma or Burro di Reggio Emilia.
When cheesemakers prepare milk to make Parmigiano-Reggiano, they let the evening milk sit overnight. The cream naturally rises to the top, and they skim it off to ensure the milk has the perfect fat content for the cheese. That skimmed, hyper-pure cream is then churned into butter. Because it comes from the same rigorously diet-controlled cows used for world-class cheese, the butter inherits a fragrant, slightly nutty, and clean lactic profile.

Top Premium Brands to Look For
If you are looking for true imported luxury, these are the gold-standard producers:

Beppino Occelli (Burro Occelli):
Widely considered the "king" of Italian artisanal butter. Hailing from the Maritime Alps in Piedmont, it is made from Alpine cream and traditionally pressed into molds with beautiful raised designs of mountain symbols. It is dense, smooth, and has a deeply creamy, fresh-pasture taste.

Delitia (Burro di Parma):
The most accessible premium Italian butter in high-end US grocery stores (like Eataly or specialty Italian grocers). It uses the cream from Parmigiano-Reggiano production. It has a dry consistency, melts effortlessly on the tongue, and is incredibly smooth.

Ferrarini:
Another magnificent producer from Emilia-Romagna. They raise their own Jersey and Friesian cows on GMO-free fodder, resulting in an exceptionally rich, high-fat, pale-yellow butter with a delicate, sweet aroma.

Fattorie Fiandino (Burro 1889):
An Alpine Piedmontese dairy that uses a specific selection of local creams rested for long periods to develop intense, complex aromas.

Il Parco (Buffalo Milk Butter):
For something uniquely Italian, look for *Burro di Bufala* (Buffalo milk butter). Made from the cream of Mediterranean water buffaloes in regions like Puglia or Campania, it is stark white, incredibly velvety, and features a tangy, robust flavor completely distinct from cow's milk.

How to Use It
High-quality Italian butter is highly delicate. Because it isn't masked by heavy salt or aggressive cultures, it shines best in raw or gentle applications
* Slathered over crusty, warm rustic bread.
* Folded gently into a finished risotto (*mantecatura*) right off the heat to create a glossy, velvety wave.
* Tossed with fresh egg pasta, cracked black pepper, and a grating of hard cheese.

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​List of Italian products with protected designation of origin

​Italy has a rich tradition of protecting its authentic foods and cheeses through various designations. Here are some of the key designations you might come across:
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• Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) or DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta): This designation ensures that products are locally grown and produced. Examples include Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and Mozzarella di Bufala Campana[1].

• Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) or IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protetta):

           This designation is for products that have a specific quality, reputation,                   or other characteristics attributable to their geographical origin. Examples             include Balsamic Vinegar of Modena and Speck Alto Adige[1].
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• Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) or STG (Specialità Tradizionale Garantita): This designation highlights traditional character, either in the composition or means of production. Examples include Pizza Napoletana and Mozzarella[1].

These designations help protect the authenticity and quality of Italian foods, ensuring that you get the genuine product. If you're ever in doubt, look for these labels on the packaging!

References
[1] List of Italian food and drink products with protected status

​The original AI ( Authentic Italian ) ​

Authentic Designations

About John Fugazzie
John Fugazzie brings more than 30 years of executive leadership experience in the food industry, spanning retail, manufacturing, importing, marketing, and brand development.

His career includes senior leadership positions as Senior Merchandising Manager for Wakefern Food Corporation, Director of National Purchasing for A&P, General Manager of Anco Cheese Company, and Sales & Marketing Director for Schratter Foods.

Throughout his career, John has worked closely with domestic and international food producers, importers, distributors, retailers, and specialty food companies. He later founded consulting organizations including Food Marketing Partners and helping-Brands, advising companies on growth strategies, product development, supply chain management, sales, marketing, strategic partnerships and creating community impact.

Drawing on decades of experience in the specialty food business, John created Authentic Italian and CheeseXchange to showcase the tradition, quality, craftsmanship, and heritage behind some of the world's finest foods, cheeses, olive oils, wines, and artisanal products.

Founded by Food Industry Veteran John Fugazzie
Few people bring together the perspectives of retailer, buyer, manufacturer, marketer, consultant, educator, and food enthusiast as uniquely as John Fugazzie.

​John applies decades of food industry experience and relationships to help consumers and trade professionals discover authentic products, trusted producers, and the rich traditions that make Italian and specialty foods exceptional.

April 15 was chosen because it is the birthday of Leonardo da Vinci (April 15, 1452), a universal symbol of Italian creativity, ingenuity, and excellence. Tying the celebration to his birth reinforces the cultural and historical meaning of Made in Italy

click on image to buy on Amazon

Marcato Atlas 150
​Classic Pasta Machine

• Widely regarded as the best manual pasta machine, made in Italy.
• Durable, stainless steel construction, adjustable thickness settings, and compatible with various attachments.
• Price: Around $90–$150 USD for the machine itself.
• More info [foodandwine.com]

Click on image to buy on Amazon

Fugazzi Family History

Detailed overview of Globalit and related authentic Italian food importers and distributors in the U.S., particularly in New York, New Jersey, and California:

🇮🇹 Globalit LLC – Made in Italy in the USA
​Headquarters:
📍 136 Madison Avenue, Manhattan, NYC
📍 Fairfield, NJ
📍 Expansion planned: Long Beach, California

Overview:
Globalit LLC is a New York-based company founded by a team of Italian and Italian-American professionals. Their mission is to import and distribute high-quality, authentic Italian food products across the United States. They act as a direct bridge between Italian producers and the American market, focusing on:

• Selecting only the most authentic and high-quality Italian products.
• Importing directly from respected Italian producers.
• Distributing across the U.S., with a growing presence on both coasts.

Vision:
To create long-term partnerships, stimulate economic growth, and become a trusted hub for Italian culinary excellence in the U.S.[1]

🔗 Visit Globalit’s Website

🇺🇸 Other Notable Authentic Italian Food Importers in the U.S.
🧀 Gustiamo – Bronx, NY

• Founded in 1999, Gustiamo is a disruptive importer of real Italian ingredients.
• Known for their direct relationships with Italian farmers and artisans.
• Offers both retail and wholesale options.
• Advocates for food transparency and authenticity (e.g., real San Marzano tomatoes).
• Ships across the U.S. and Canada.

🔗 Learn more about Gustiamo[2]

🛒 Italian Food Distributors Directory
A comprehensive list of importers and wholesalers of Italian food and wine in the U.S., including:

• Guidi Marcello Ltd – Santa Monica, CA
• The Impex Group – Tustin, CA
• Conca D’Oro Importers – Woodside, NY
• United Olive Oil Imports – New York, NY
• Flora Fine Foods – Coral Springs, FL
• Eu Food Corp – Redondo Beach, CA

This directory is a great resource for discovering regional distributors and potential partners.[3]
🔗 Explore the full directory

References
[1] Chi siamo – Globalit - Made in Italy a New York
[2] Gustiamo: Italian food importers
[3] Italian Food Distributors USA - Importers, Wholesalers
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Cheese, meat and fish Made in Italy

Chocolate, pastry and sweets Made in Italy

Truffle specialties Made in Italy

Pasta and cereals Made in Italy

Sauces and canned food Made in Italy

Oil, vinegar and spices Made in Italy

Italian Ceramic
bowls on Amazon

click to Buy SMEG on Amazon

Pope Leo XIV   
Robert Francis Prevost

Sad news with the passing of
​the Pope

​#TucciInItaly, a new series from National Geographic, premieres May 18 at 8/7c on National Geographic. Streaming next day on @DisneyPlus and @hulu.

Several picturesque villages across Italy are offering up to $30,000 to attract new residents. This initiative aims to revitalize these communities by bringing in fresh energy and investment. Here are some of the villages participating in this program:

1. Calabria Mountain Villages - Known for their stunning mountain landscapes and serene atmosphere.
2. Emilia Romagna - Famous for its colorful houses and lush greenery.
3. Civita - A charming hilltop village with breathtaking views and historic architecture.

These villages offer a unique opportunity to experience Italian culture in a tranquil setting while receiving financial incentives to help with relocation costs, property purchases, or starting a business[1][2].

​Would you consider moving to one of these beautiful Italian villages?

References
[1] 13 Italian Villages that Will Pay You Up To $30,000 To Move There
[2] 13 Italian Villages that Will Pay You Up To $30,000 To Move There

Italy is known for its diverse and high-quality exports. Some of the largest exports from Italy include:

1. Packaged Medicaments: Pharmaceuticals are a major export, valued at around $37.6 billion[1].
2. Cars: The automotive industry is significant, with car exports worth approximately $20.5 billion[1].
3. Refined Petroleum: This includes various refined petroleum products, totaling about $20.3 billion[1].
4. Motor Vehicle Parts and Accessories: These exports are valued at around $16.4 billion[1].
5. Jewelry: Italy is renowned for its jewelry, exporting about $12.4 billion worth[1].
6. Wine: Italian wine is famous worldwide, with exports valued at approximately $6.2 billion[2].

These exports highlight Italy's strengths in pharmaceuticals, automotive, and luxury goods, contributing significantly to its economy.

[1] Italy (ITA) Exports, Imports, and Trade Partners | The Observatory of ...
[2] List of exports of Italy - Wikipedia

​Cheeses by Italian Province

• Abruzzo cheeses​
• Basilicata cheeses
• Calabria cheeses
• Campania cheeses
• Emilia-Romagna cheeses
• Friuli-Venezia Giulia cheeses
• Lazio cheeses
• Liguria cheeses
• Lombardia cheeses
• Marche cheeses
• Molise cheeses
• Piemonte cheeses
• Puglia cheeses
• Sardegna cheeses
• Sicilia cheeses
• Toscana cheeses
• Trentino-Alto Adige cheeses
• Umbria cheeses
• Valle d'Aosta cheeses
• Veneto cheeses

Quality Labels of Italy

In 2023, Italy exported cheese worth approximately $5.4 billion, making it one of the top cheese exporters globally[1].

The main types of cheese exported include Grana Padano, Parmigiano Reggiano, mozzarella, and Gorgonzola[2].
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[1] Cheese Exports by Country 2023 - World's Top Exports
[2] Italian cheese exports to non-EU countries surge

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, there are approximately 16.8 million Italian-Americans in the United States, making up about 5.07% of the total U.S. population[2].

The largest concentrations of Italian-Americans are found in the northeastern states, particularly New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut[1].

References
[1] Italian Population by State 2024 - World Population Review
[2] Italian Americans - Wikipedia