Ernst Knam sparks debate over Italian gastronomy work ethic

Renowned German pastry chef Ernst Knam has sparked a widespread debate in Italy regarding work ethic and labor standards within the gastronomy sector. Knam, a celebrity chocolatier known for his television appearances and his Milan-based confectionery, expressed frustration following an incident in July where nearly his entire team left his establishment.

Knam attributed the staff turnover to a lack of passion among employees and cited the influence of a single “bad apple” on the rest of the team. He specifically criticized the trend of working eight-hour days, five days a week, labeling such a model as “the death of gastronomy.” He argued that these limited hours are difficult to reconcile with the traditional rhythms of the industry, which require coverage for both lunch and dinner services through multiple shifts.