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2 clusters · 13 sources · 16 days · First seen · Last updated

Italian food industry and consumer trends

Overview

The Italian food market is experiencing shifts in consumer demand and sector growth. In early 2026, the packaged gelato sector saw a 9% increase in retail sales compared to the previous year, with growth noted in the Lazio region and Rome. This trend was partially attributed to high summer temperatures. Additionally, the Italian Gelato Institute reported significant international production and export volumes.

Broader consumer trends in Italy indicate a move toward plant-based, high-protein, and ‘free-from’ products. The ‘free-from’ sector has reached a value of 12.6 billion euros, representing nearly 30% of large-scale retail revenue. Specific growth has been observed in lactose-free and high-protein segments, while the plant-based segment saw a value increase of 36.2%. Demographic data also shows the vegan population in Italy rose from 0.9% in 2017 to 3.2% in 2026.

Entities

Caritas · Eurispes · Nielsen · Istituto del Gelato Italiano · GS1 Italy

Timeline

  1. [BUSINESS] 5 sources
    Italy consumer trends show surge in plant-based and protein-rich foods

    Italian consumer trends show a surge in plant-based products, which grew 36.2% in value, alongside rising demand for high-protein and lactose-free foods.

  2. [BUSINESS] 8 sources
    Italian packaged gelato sales grow 9% in early 2026

    Packaged gelato sales in Italy rose by 9% in the first eight months of 2026, driven by heatwaves and strong retail demand. Italy remains a major European producer and exporter.

Sources

agrapress.it · brisbanetimes.com.au · diningandcooking.com · foodaffairs.it · foodmakers.it · horecanews.it · italiaatavola.net · italianotizie24.it · mangiaebevi.it · radiostudio90italia.it · romatoday.it · theage.com.au · toscanachiantiambiente.it