SUSTAINABLE AND NEARBY TOURISM IN NODES: The case study of the white truffle of Monferrato

In the heart of the Monferrato hills, and more precisely in the Borgo Castello (monastic complex - old church region) of Ponti (AL), on 14 October 2023 at 3.30 pm, the fourth edition of the Prized White Truffle Day will be held.

Within this event, a conference will be held organized within the Spoke 3 - Tourism and Culture Industry projects entitled: "SUSTAINABLE AND NEARBY TOURISM IN NODES: The case study of the white truffle of Monferrato" which aims to explore the importance of one of the most prized local treasures, in the context of sustainable and local tourism in the region.

This conference is an important moment to reflect on the importance of preserving and promoting the white truffle as a sustainable resource for local tourism.

The event will host a series of leading experts and speakers who will address crucial issues related to the world of truffles and sustainable tourism.

Among the scheduled topics:

• The authentication of prized white truffles: Lucia Decastelli of IZS Piedmont, Liguria and Valle D'Aosta, will share information on analytical methods to guarantee the authenticity of truffles.

• Food safety and controls in the truffle sector: Domenico Monteleone of the Ministry of Health will provide an overview of the rigorous controls necessary to guarantee the quality and food safety of truffle-based products.

• Post-pandemic gastronomic tourism: Stefania Cerutti of the University of Eastern Piedmont will discuss the importance of the gastronomic element in motivating tourists after the end of the pandemic and the factors that drive quality tourism.

• The importance of the prized white truffle in the Monferrato area: Roberto Cerrato, Director of UNESCO wine-growing landscapes, will explore the history, traditions, biodiversity and protection of the natural landscape linked to the white truffle.

• Research on the traceability of the quality White Truffle of Monferrato: Maurizio Aceto, Guido Lingua and Vito Rubino of the University of Eastern Piedmont and Raffaella Balestrini, Fabiano Sillo and Elisa Zampieri of the CNR will present updates on the ongoing research relating to the analytical traceability of the Truffle White.

The day will culminate with the conclusions of Franco Novelli of the ATS Comuni del Monferrato, followed by the award ceremony of the guest of honor and 2023 testimonial of the prized white truffle of Monferrato. Finally, all participants will be able to enjoy refreshments.