Argentina Ranks as One of the World’s Best Gelato Producers
Argentina has recently made its mark in the world of gelato by securing third place in the prestigious Gelato World Cup. This international competition, known as the most significant event in the artisanal ice cream sector, took place in Rimini, Italy, during the 46th SIGEP event, which gathers industry leaders every two years.
Argentina’s Gelato Excellence
The Argentine team showcased their culinary skills against fierce competition from countries like Belgium, China, Ecuador, France, Japan, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, Peru, Poland, and Singapore. The team distinguished itself with creations inspired by nature and butterflies, ultimately achieving commendable success.
Team Composition and Background
The Argentine delegation was a collaboration between the Asociación Fabricantes Artesanales de Helados y Afines (AFADHYA) and the Federation of Pastry Workers. The team was led by Eduardo Zacaria, who served as the captain and master gelato maker, alongside three talented professionals: Diego Calculli, Diego Colaneri, and Sergio Federico Mercado.
Maximiliano Maccarrone, the president of AFADHYA, held a significant role as the head of the jury for this year’s competition. Maccarrone, a historically decorated competitor himself, expressed immense pride in the accomplishments of the Argentine team.
Competition Highlights
The competition required each team of four to present a thematic concept guiding their offerings. Argentina’s theme was “Butterfly Garden.” The competition consisted of eight rigorous tasks evaluating technical skills and creativity, including:
- Savory gelato appetizers for fine dining
- Frozen tortes
- Single-portion gelato in cups
- Chocolate mignon pastries
- Glazed popsicles
- Surprise “mystery box” challenge
- Chocolate artistic sculpture
- Final buffet presentation
Judges assessed the teams based on criteria such as mise en place, hygiene, teamwork, technical skill, organoleptic quality, creativity, innovation, and presentation. Ultimately, Singapore and France took the first and second places respectively.
The Team’s Journey
Eduardo Zacaria has a notable history in competitive gelato, having previously led the national team to various accomplishments over the years, including the Latin American championships. The team also saw success in national competitions leading up to this international event.
Colaneri and Calculli, who previously formed the “DYD” team, had notable victories together, winning national accolades prior to this world stage. Mercado made his international debut as a specialist in chocolate artistry.
Support and Future Aspirations
The Argentine team received support from various companies, including Aromitalia, Baires Cocina, and Milkaut Profesional, among others. AFADHYA, established in 1985, promotes artisanal gelato across Argentina through initiatives like the Authentic Artisanal Gelato Week.
Maccarrone stated, “Today we demonstrated that Argentina boasts one of the best artisanal gelatos in the world.” His vision for the future is to continue elevating Argentina’s reputation as a leader in the artisanal ice cream sector.
Captain Eduardo Zacaria reiterated the team’s commitment to further excellence. “We have laid down the groundwork for our future competitions. The Argentine artisanal gelato industry is writing its own history,” he concluded.
