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Why Do Chefs Prefer Italian Nutella Over American?

Nutella is one of the world’s most loved hazelnut spreads. What’s not to love? While the United States has tried to replicate the Italian spread, nothing compares to what Italy continues to produce. 

According to Nutella enthusiasts, there are differences between the hazelnut spread sold in Italy and in America although it's widely known that the Italian version is preferred. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly why Italian Nutella is superior. When comparing labels, the ingredients are very similar however it’s possible that Italian Nutella is produced with higher quality ingredients. Like most Italian products, Italy has a reputation for sourcing the freshest ingredients. Some say the American version is sweeter and isn’t as hazelnut-forward as the Italian version. It’s also highly likely that the American version has more preservatives, a common practice with food products in America.

These remarks are not just from the mouths of Nutella lovers, chefs have even chimed into the conversation and expressed that Italian Nutella tastes better than its American counterpart. 

Here are some facts about the Italian hazelnut spread:  

  • According to Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli, Italian Nutella is “far more delicious and more hazelnut forward.”
  • While the ingredients are mostly the same, the Italian version lists 13% hazelnut and 7.4% cocoa powder as two of the ingredients. The American version excludes these numbers on the food label.
  • Due to a cocoa shortage shortly after World War II, Nutella’s founder had to find new alternatives. Hazelnuts grow in abundance in Italy so the idea of adding sugar with a touch of cocoa powder gave birth to the Italian chocolate, Giandujot.
  • In 1951, SuperCrema was made by using the spreadable Giandujot. It took 13 years for the recipe to be worked on, ultimately creating Nutella. It wasn’t until 1964 when Nutella was perfectly fine tuned. 
  • Today, the hazelnut spread can be added to nearly anything. Nutella pairs well with breakfast dishes like french toast, pancakes, and even crepes. You’ll even see Nutella hot chocolate or a Nutella dipping sauce for fruits and cheeses.

AJ Forrisi

Assistant Editor for America Domani, AJ Forrisi is a Brooklyn-based writer and photographer. His work focuses on food, travel, sports, landscapes, and urban scenes. You can find him on Instagram @aj.photo.works

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