Fifteen years after the first official document, pasta returns to the forefront of tables and scientific research. For the 27th World Pasta Day, in 2025, the Pasta Makers of Unione Italiana Food, together with SISA (Italian Society of Food Sciences) and CEPEA (Center for Studies in Food Policy and Economics), have renewed the Consensus Statement – Healthy Pasta Meal, expanding it from 12 to 19 points in light of the latest scientific evidence.
The new document, signed by international experts, reiterates what millions of Italians have always known: pasta is not only tasty, but also good for your health, the environment, and even your mood.
The Long History of a Global Scientific Consensus
It was 2010 when the International Pasta Organization (IPO) brought together 29 scientists from 9 countries to clarify the role of carbohydrates in the diet. This led to the creation of the Healthy Pasta Meal Consensus Statement, a document that officially established that pasta is a complex, healthy, and sustainable carbohydrate that can be perfectly integrated into almost any diet.
Last year, fifteen years later, science has confirmed (and expanded) those results: pasta is not only an integral part of the Mediterranean Diet, but it represents a complete, sustainable food capable of generating physical, mental and social well-being.
The 19 Points of the New 2025 Consensus
1. Pasta Supports the Mediterranean Diet
A cornerstone of plant-based eating patterns, pasta helps bring vegetables, legumes, and healthy fats to the table, promoting a balanced and sustainable diet.
2. Improves the Supply of Essential Nutrients
Those who eat pasta consume more folate, iron, magnesium, fibre and vitamins, maintaining a more balanced body weight.
3. It is Compatible With the Diabetic Diet
Taken in the right quantities, it does not worsen glycemic control or promote the increase in body fat in subjects with type 2 diabetes.
4. Helps Control Hunger
Whole wheat pasta increases satiety and reduces short-term hunger thanks to its fiber content and low glycemic index.
5. Protects the Heart
Studies of over 84,000 postmenopausal women show that regular pasta consumption is linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
6. Provides Natural Antioxidants
Buckwheat or egg pasta contains more polyphenols and antioxidant compounds, useful against oxidative stress.
7. Improves Intestinal Health
Pasta enriched with inulin promotes the growth of good bacteria (Lactobacillus paracasei) and the production of fatty acids beneficial for the microbiota.
8. It Has Positive Effects on Mood
Rich in carbohydrates and tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin, pasta is linked to greater mental well-being and emotional stability.
9. It is a Democratic Food
Accessible, affordable, and present in every culture: pasta proves that healthy eating can be simple and affordable for everyone.
10. Gluten-Free Only if Necessary
Gluten-free pasta is best for those with celiac disease or gluten-related disorders; for others, traditional pasta is more balanced.
11. It Has a Low Environmental Impact
Made with just a few plant-based ingredients, pasta has a smaller ecological footprint than many other foods.
12. Contributes to Protein Balance
Pasta is not just carbohydrates: it contains around 12% vegetable proteins, including tyrosine and tryptophan, which promote physical and mental health.
13. Promotes Cognitive Health
Pasta-based meals, especially in the Mediterranean context, improve memory, concentration and sleep quality, thanks to their effects on the microbiota and serotonin.
14. It is Recommended by Doctors and Nutritionists
Health professionals consider it a balanced, sustainable and culturally adaptable nutritional foundation.
15. Stimulates Conviviality and Social Bonds
Pasta is a symbol of sharing and sociability, key elements of psychological well-being and Mediterranean tradition.
16. It Is a Natural Fuel For Sports
Its complex carbohydrates provide stable energy for intense or endurance physical activity.
17. Promotes Muscle Recovery
After training, a meal of pasta and lean protein helps replenish glycogen stores and aid recovery.
18. The Full Version Adds Benefits
More fiber, minerals and micronutrients: whole wheat pasta amplifies the positive effects on satiety and intestinal health.
19. The Importance of The Portion and The Complete Dish
The secret is moderation and the right combination: vegetables, legumes, extra virgin olive oil and balanced quantities make pasta a perfect ally for health.
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