FOOD AND THE CITY: MILAN REGISTERS BOOM IN READY-MADE FOOD PRODUCTS

Delicatessens, fried food stands, to go shops, and even frozen or canned meals in supermarkets: these are the new food staples for Milanese, who have most decidedly quit cooking. According to a study conducted by the Chamber of Commerce on the capital city of Italy’s northern Lombardy region, in 2008, the consumption of ready-made foods has increased by 77.4% since the fourth quarter of 2004. There are now 303 fast food restaurants in the area, making up 36% of all restaurants.
In general, the food sector in Milan has avoided any negative effects from the economic crisis. From 2004 to 2008, the number of food enterprises has grown by 18.6% (3,887 in Milan alone, making up one third for the entire region). This is equivalent to an increase of 13%, which is considerably higher than the Italian national average of 9%.

In an attempt to return Milanese eating habits to a healthier state, the Chamber of Commerce and the Commerce Union of Milan have launched the “Guida ai consumi alimentari. Comprare, conservare, cucinare” (Guide to Food Consumption. Buy, Conserve, Cook), that includes advice, curiosities, anecdotes, and proverbs.