ITA 392SEM—Italian Food: Culture, Health, Sustainability, Marketing

This course explores the tradition of Italian food examining its profound interconnection with Italian culture. It pays attention to the regional varieties of Italian food, to the Italian-American culinary tradition, and to how food has shaped Italian society. Italian food is analyzed within the broader tradition of the Mediterranean diet, with a reflection on its benefits, and healthy nutrition. The course introduces students to the “Slow Food” movement and to its investigation of questions of sustainability and respect for the environment. Finally, it devotes attention to the dynamics, and the marketing and business strategies of Italian food abroad (with specific attention to local imports in Western NY). This course is the same as GGS 392 and repeat rules may apply.