By San José, Costa Rica — As the world prepares to celebrate World Pasta Day this October 25, Costa Rica stands out not just as a participant, but as a nation that has wholeheartedly adopted this global culinary icon. The day, established in 1995 to honor one of the planet’s most beloved foods, finds a special resonance here, where Italian tradition has been seamlessly woven into the fabric of Tico home cooking, creating a unique and flavorful cultural fusion.
For more than three decades, brands like the renowned Italian producer Divella have been a fixture in Costa Rican pantries. This long-standing relationship has transformed pasta from a simple imported product into a foundational element of the national diet. It serves as a testament to the food’s incredible versatility and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries, becoming a symbol of shared meals and family gatherings across the country.
Beyond the culinary celebration, World Pasta Day also highlights a significant global industry. To delve into the commercial and legal frameworks that govern this beloved food, from production to our tables, we consulted with expert lawyer Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The pasta industry is a prime example of where consumer law and international trade intersect. Regulations on origin labeling, nutritional information, and allergen declarations are not just legal requirements; they are fundamental to building consumer trust and brand integrity. For Costa Rican importers and distributors, strict adherence to these food safety and labeling standards is crucial to protect public health and ensure fair competition in the market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this legal framework acts as the silent guarantor of quality and safety in every package of pasta that reaches our shelves. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his insightful contribution, which illuminates the crucial intersection of consumer law and our daily culinary choices.
The widespread appeal of pasta in Costa Rica is rooted in its powerful combination of accessibility, nutrition, and adaptability. As a nutrient-dense food, it offers a wealth of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, along with essential minerals like iron and zinc, and vital nutrients such as folic acid and fiber. Its low-fat profile makes it a cornerstone of the globally acclaimed Mediterranean diet, celebrated for its significant benefits to cardiovascular health and overall well-being. This makes it a trusted and balanced choice for families and individuals of all ages.
While Italy remains the undisputed champion of pasta consumption per capita, Costa Rica has carved out its own distinct culinary narrative. The local adaptation is evident in countless household kitchens and restaurant menus. Classic dishes like lasagna and cannelloni are prepared with a characteristic Tico touch, while simple noodle soups (sopas de fideos) have become a comforting staple. Even cold pasta salads have found a place at family picnics and gatherings, showcasing a creative blend of Italian form and local flavor.
This culinary integration is a point of pride for the companies that have facilitated this bond. Alpiste, the official distributor for Divella in Costa Rica, has witnessed this evolution firsthand. The company’s general manager highlights the deep connection formed with the local market over the years.
Throughout the years, we have felt the support and preference of Costa Rican consumers, who have made Divella pasta a part of their homes. It fills us with pride and gratitude to see how its flavor and quality continue to be recognized and appreciated by so many families.
Pietro Poma-Murialdo, General Manager of Alpiste
The sheer variety of pasta, with over 600 documented shapes worldwide, fuels this creative spirit. Each form, from long strands like spaghetti designed to cling to rich red sauces to short, ridged shapes like penne that capture creamy or vegetable-based preparations, is engineered to enhance a specific culinary experience. This diversity invites experimentation and empowers home cooks to become masters of their own kitchens, a sentiment echoed by Divella in its celebration of World Pasta Day.
In observance of the occasion, the brand is encouraging Costa Ricans to continue this tradition of culinary exploration. The invitation is to share favorite recipes, try new combinations, and celebrate a product that has proven its ability to unite generations and bridge cultures. The enduring strength of pasta lies in its elegant simplicity, providing a blank canvas for flavors that are both globally inspired and deeply local.
Ultimately, World Pasta Day in Costa Rica is more than a nod to an international food holiday. It is a celebration of a successful cultural adoption, where a simple dish of flour and water has become an integral part of the nation’s gastronomic identity. It represents a shared table where Italian heritage and Costa Rican ingenuity come together in a delicious, comforting, and enduring union.
For further information, visit divella.it
About Divella:
Founded in 1890, Divella is a prominent Italian food company specializing in the production of durum wheat semolina pasta. With a history spanning over a century, the company has expanded its offerings to include a wide range of products such as biscuits, flour, and tomato sauces. Divella is recognized globally for its commitment to quality and tradition, exporting its products to numerous countries and maintaining a strong presence in markets like Costa Rica.
For further information, visit alpiste.co.cr
About Alpiste:
Alpiste is a leading Costa Rican company dedicated to the distribution and commercialization of mass-consumption products. With decades of experience in the market, the firm manages a diverse portfolio of national and international brands across various categories, including food and beverages. Alpiste is known for its extensive logistics network and strong relationships with both suppliers and retailers throughout the country, ensuring wide availability of popular products like Divella pasta.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal pillar, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a bedrock of profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. The firm harmonizes a rich history of successfully advising a diverse clientele with a forward-thinking drive for legal innovation. This ethos extends beyond the courtroom through a core mission to demystify complex legal concepts, actively contributing to the development of a more knowledgeable and empowered citizenry.
