Argentina Celebrated for Producing World-Class Ice Cream
Argentina has secured third place in the prestigious Gelato World Cup, held in Rimini, Italy. This esteemed competition is a highlight in the world of artisanal ice cream. The event took place during the 46th edition of SIGEP, which gathers international leaders in the gelato industry.
Argentina’s Triumph in the Gelato World Cup
The national team outperformed contenders from various countries, showcasing inspirations from nature and the theme “Butterfly Garden.” Their efforts were supported by the Association of Artisan Ice Cream Makers and Related Professions (AFADHYA) and the Federation of Pastry Workers.
Competing at a Global Level
The Argentine delegation included:
- Eduardo Zacaria (captain and master ice cream maker)
- Diego Calculli
- Diego Colaneri
- Sergio Federico Mercado
Maximiliano Maccarrone, a notable figure in Argentine ice cream who previously claimed third place in 2020, served as the president of the jury for this edition. He was joined by French MOF Glacier, Emmanuel Ryon. The competition featured participants from countries including Belgium, China, Ecuador, France, Japan, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, Peru, Poland, and Singapore.
Challenges Faced by the Team
The team faced eight rigorous evaluations, testing their technical skills and creativity. The challenges included:
- Salty ice cream appetizers for fine dining
- Single-portion frozen cake
- Chocolate mignones
- Vassoio Tronchetto
- Glazed popsicles
- Mystery box surprise challenge
- Artistic chocolate sculpture
- Final buffet presentation
The jury assessed teams based on presentation, hygiene, teamwork, technique, taste, color, texture, creativity, innovation, and visual appeal.
A Glimpse into the Team’s Background
Captain Eduardo Zacaria, 56, from Coronel Brandsen, Buenos Aires, led the team. He has a history of success in competitions, including being a two-time Latin American champion. His teammates included:
- Diego Colaneri (45, Villa Luzuriaga)
- Diego Calculli (31, Buenos Aires)
- Sergio Federico Mercado (45, Caseros)
Colaneri and Calculli formed a team, DYD, after meeting during AFADHYA training sessions and won the Copa Argentina del Helado Artesanal in June 2024.
Celebrating a National Treasure
Maximiliano Maccarrone reflected on the importance of Argentine artisanal ice cream. He stated, “Argentina has some of the best artisanal ice cream in the world. This achievement confirms our hard work in international competitions over the past 15 years.”
He emphasized the cultural significance of ice cream as an ambassador for Argentina. “Today, our artisanal ice cream stands alongside our famous beef and wine on the world stage,” he said.
Team captain Zacaria expressed pride in leading a professional team that elevated Argentine artisanal ice cream globally. He noted a year of intensive preparation, which refined their concept and flavor combinations.
Support for the Team
Various companies supported the national team, including:
- Aromitalia
- Baires Cocina
- Cattabriga
- Milkaut Profesional
- Techfrost
- Pehuenia
- ISA
- Alyser
- Oyambre
- Vacalin
- FAM
- San Ignacio
- Ghelco
- Tronador Chocolates
- La Serenísima
- Águila
- Materia Prima
Since 1985, AFADHYA has organized initiatives to promote artisanal ice cream, showcasing its healthiness and natural qualities. Events like the Week of Authentic Artisanal Ice Cream and the Night of Ice Cream Shops highlight the sector’s importance in Argentina.
