Sicilian 'gelato' to be marketed in US

(ANSA) - Palermo, July 23 - Catania's Belpasso food processing plant has signed a contract with US distributor Kroger to produce an initial 2.5 million tubs of 'authentic' Sicilian ice cream for sale on the American market, it emerged on Thursday.
    The ice cream, which is to be marketed under the Italian name 'gelato', will be produced in six flavors: pistachio, hazelnut, stracciatella, chocolate, lemon and cappuccino (created ad hoc for American consumers).
    Other flavours including white chocolate, vanilla and banana are due to be added from next year.
    Belpasso is owned by Sicilian Sun Corporation of the American holding company Firma, which aims to turn the plant into a manufacturing hub for traditional Sicilian products destined for the American market.
    "Food is life," said Kroger vice president Gil Phipps.
    "We are interested in genuine foods, in fresh and artisanal products, and this is why we have invested in Sicily where we think this potential exists," he continued.
    "We have begun with ice cream but we are also interested in other products such as bread, pasta and sauces. Throughout America there is demand for things that are authentic, which will be the future of the planet," Phipps concluded.