Longarone, November 23, 2022 – Sicily and Veneto are coming together at sub-zero temperatures. A fresh highlight at this year’s MIG – International Exhibition of Artisan Gelato (November 27–30, Longarone Fiere) is the arrival of Sicilian granita, the iconic frozen dessert from the island’s culinary heritage.
As climate change continues to reshape global food culture, granita is finding fans far beyond its traditional southern strongholds, gaining popularity across Central and Northern Europe, where gelato already reigns. That’s why MIG 2022 is dedicating a special space to this refreshing specialty.
The Arcipelago Sicilia Showcase: Ice Meets Nature
Hosted by Gelato Officinale—founded by chef and glacier Maurizio Valguarnera, a Vegan Academy instructor—this new event celebrates granita as a symbol of two powerful natural elements: cold and water. These form the symbolic link between Sicily’s Madonie Mountains and the Dolomites of northern Italy. The “Arcipelago Sicilia” space will showcase genuine ingredients and traditional flavors brought directly from Sicily.
The Contest: Who Makes the Best Sicilian Granita?
Two key moments will spotlight the craft of granita-making:
- A masterclass by Valguarnera on the art and science behind true Sicilian granita
- A national contest open to artisans from across Italy to create their best original recipe
The competition, titled “Principessa, Granita Best in Sicily”, will pit gelato and granita professionals against each other in a creative challenge to reinterpret and innovate the most beloved Sicilian frozen treat.
Sustainability and the Future of Gelato
More than just a dessert, granita at MIG 2022 becomes a gateway to broader conversations about environmental sustainability and climate impact. As global awareness rises, the artisan gelato sector is also being called to action.
On Monday, November 28 at 11:00 AM, MIG will host a special conference on sustainability in gelato-making, focusing on how gelaterias can become part of the solution to climate change.
Marco Stevanin, applied ecology consultant, will explore how cutting energy consumption and carbon emissions not only helps the planet but can also improve a gelateria’s bottom line.
Green Innovation and Energy Efficiency
At 11:30 AM, the discussion continues with “Green Innovation in Gelato-Making: Exhibitor Highlights at MIG 2022”. The session will showcase equipment and technologies designed to lower energy use and reduce environmental impact—vital tools for the gelato shop of the future.
Launch of the MIG Green Award
In line with this new focus, MIG 2022 introduces the inaugural “MIG Green Award”, recognizing the gelaterias most committed to environmental responsibility.
Dario Olivier, MIG coordinator, explains:
“This award is designed to inspire and promote innovation across all aspects of the gelato industry—from products and production processes to machinery, equipment, furniture, and related services.”
Two symbolic honors will be awarded:
- One to the stand that best integrates sustainable practices in its presentation at MIG
- One to the most innovative sustainable solution in technology, product, or process within the artisan gelato sector