Italy is looking to penalize ice cream vendors who inject compressed air into their mixtures to make them appear fluffier as the country seeks to defend the reputation of its world-famous gelato.
According to Senate proposals, ice-cream producers who fail to follow strict quality measures, such as limits on the amount of air added to the mixture, could face a fine of up to 10,000 euros ($15,000).
"Italian gelato is one of the gastronomic symbols of our country, along with pasta and pizza," Senator Riccardo Nencini, one of the bill's supporters, said. "But our laws do not preserve artisanal ice cream and producers who make it."
Six senators from the center-left Democratic and Italia Viva parties proposed the bill, claiming that it would better control the work of authentic ice cream artisans and protect consumer rights. The legislation also argues that inflating gelato with air violates the fundamental principles of making artisanal ice cream.
It is hoped that the reforms would put a stop to shady vendors posing as gelato artisans, who have been known to sell tubs containing more air than ice cream.
The draft bill, which has been delegated to the Senate Commerce and Tourism Commission, also prohibits the use of such low-cost alternatives for fresh ingredients, such as artificial flavors, coloring and hydrogenated fats.
According to industry standards, ice cream can contain no more than 30% air, which artisanal producers accomplish by vigorously mixing certain ingredients.
Stefano Ferrara, one of Italy's top 50 ice-cream creators, supports the bill, saying some of those who call themselves artisans turn out to be people who cut corners.
"A law that protects consumers and real artisans would be useful," Ferrara said.
Italy's ice cream sector has a business value of about 1 billion euros and represents one of the strongest Italian products abroad.
