Bologna Celebrates World Record: The World’s Smallest Tortellino
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Bologna, 8 November 2025 - Bologna, a city synonymous with Italian culinary excellence, today witnessed a remarkable achievement: the creation of the world’s smallest tortellino, officially recognized by Guinness World Records. The miniature pasta,unveiled on World Health Day,celebrates the rich traditions and ongoing success of Italy’s agri-food sector.
A Tiny Masterpiece: 0.03 Grams of Tradition
Crafted by peasant chefs, the diminutive tortellino measures just under 5 millimeters and weighs a mere 0.03 grams. Despite its size, it boasts a customary filling of roasted pork loin, raw ham, Mortadella from Bologna, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. The creation was presented at the coldiretti Village, a showcase of Italian agricultural prowess.
Emilia Romagna: A Region of Agri-Food Excellence
The record-breaking tortellino serves as a symbol of the broader achievements within Italy’s agri-food industry. Emilia Romagna, home to the famed Food Valley, generates over 37 billion euros in value, according to Coldiretti analysis of regional data. The region’s agriculture is recognized as the greenest in Europe, characterized by distinctiveness and biodiversity, supporting a robust supply chain that represents the country’s primary wealth.
Italy’s agricultural land covers 12.5 million hectares, representing 42% of the national territory - nearly half of Italy is dedicated to farming. There are 730,000 registered agricultural businesses employing 1.1 million people.
Italy Leads in European Agriculture
Italian agriculture leads the European Union in value generated per hectare,achieving almost 3000 euros,double that of France and 66% more than Germany. Italy also boasts leadership in quality, with 331 recognized DOP/IGP/STG specialties, 529 DOP/IGP wines, 5547 traditional food products, and the expansive Campagna Amica network of direct farmers’ markets. The country also holds the European record for organic farming, with 84,000 active agricultural companies.
This success extends to exports. According to Coldiretti analysis based on Istat data, Made in Italy agri-food exports reached a historic high of 69.1 billion euros in 2024. Germany remains the primary export destination for Italian agri-food products, followed by France, the United States, Great Britain, and Spain. Wine is the most exported Italian product, followed by fresh and processed fruit and vegetables, cheeses, and pasta.