On Sunday 30 November, the silver anniversary of “Radicchio… D'argento” was celebrated, the Interregional Gastronomic Competition that since 2000 has paid homage to and promoted Radicchio di Verona PGI , a true agricultural excellence and a symbol of identity of the Verona plain.
The twenty-fifth edition took place in the evocative setting of Bevilacqua Castle , in the heart of the production area, where young chefs from regional and national hotel schools presented their creations featuring Radicchio di Verona PGI, paired with wines from local wineries. A jury chaired by Chef Andrea Cesaro awarded prizes to the dishes that stood out for their balance, aesthetics, innovation, and respect for tradition.
"It's a thrill to reach this milestone of 25 editions," said Cristiana Furiani, president of the Radicchio di Verona PGI Consortium , "for an event created to highlight the full gastronomic and culinary potential of a product that represents true regional excellence. Radicchio di Verona PGI is increasingly gaining popularity in Italians' shopping carts, thanks in part to the many activities organized by the Consortium: from national and local television appearances to conferences and international events. Radicchio d'Argento is an annual celebration that not only highlights the product but also strengthens the team for upcoming promotional initiatives. It's an ongoing commitment, 365 days a year, which is also yielding great satisfaction on the commercial front: this year, Radicchio di Verona PGI has been included in Coop Italia's Fior Fiore line , dedicated to the country's gastronomic excellence."
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The day had already opened in the morning with the conference “Neuroscience, research to nourish the mind” , hosted in the evocative Monastery of San Salvaro, between Padua and Verona: an ancient resting place for pilgrims, now a museum and hostel, which provided the ideal setting to reflect on the profound connection between food, mind and territory.
On the regulatory front, Luca Valdetara (CSQA) noted that Italian PDO and PGI products—over 330, alongside thousands of traditional ones—now enjoy protection beyond the EU: a system that protects producers and consumers, ensuring transparency, controls, and authenticity. "The scope for growth for PGI fruit and vegetables is still enormous," he emphasized, "and the strength of the brand remains the collective work of the local community."
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Source: ItaliaFruitNews.net