Keywords Gastronomy Law, Food Safety, Culinary Heritage, Italy, European Union Regulations, HACCP, Protected Designations of Origin (PDO/PGI/ TSG), Food Labelling, Consumer Protection, Wine Law, Sustainable Food Practices, Ethical Food Law, Cultural Identity, Food Business Licensing. I. INTRODUCTION Gastronomy Law, a specialized field of jurisprudence, encompasses the legal framework governing the entire lifecycle of food, from production and distribution to consumption. In Italy, a nation where culinary traditions are deeply woven into the cultural fabric, this body of law assumes particular significance2. It serves as the guardian of food safety, quality, and authenticity, employing a rigorous regulatory system to achieve these ends. The scope of Italian Gastronomy Law is extensive, covering hygiene standards, meticulous labelling requirements, and robust consumer protection measures within the food industry. Although the term “gastronomy law” isn’t widely codified as a distinct legal domain, there are relevant interpretations from European institutional and academic sources that help define it. Below are key definitions and framings drawn from authoritative European-level documents and academic discussions, translated and contextualized in English: II. EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND EUROPEAN INSTITUTIONS: “GASTRONOMY” AS CULTURAL AND LEGAL CONCEPT A report of the European Parliament frames gastronomy as follows: “Gastronomy is the combination of knowledge, experience, art and craft, which provides a healthy and pleasurable eating experience.” It forms part of our identity and cultural heritage; it incorporates respect for raw materials, quality, animal welfare, and nature. Gastronomy is not limited to haute cuisine but includes all culinary forms across regions and social strata. Its primary pillars are health, eating habits, and pleasure3. This means, that European law recognizes 2 In fact, “Gastronomy law” is establishing itself as an autonomous branch of law, distinct from the more traditional field of food law, the intersection between law and gastronomy—a niche but growing field combining culinary culture, legal protection of food heritage, intellectual property of culinary creations, regulatory frameworks, and more. 3 European gastronomic heritage: cultural and educational aspects. European Parliament resolution of 12 March 2014 on the European gastronomic heritage: cultural and educational. 628 DUILIO CORTASSA
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTE4NzM5Nw==