Thirty-two students from The Culinary Institute of America will have a day of learning about authentic Italian food and wine in New York City on November 20. In an extracurricular activity sponsored by the Italian Trade Commission and the Italian Ministry of Agriculture, the CIA students will spend time at Eataly Flatiron, meeting with management and touring the shops. They will participate in education sessions about extra virgin olive oils, balsamic vinegars, cheeses, and salumi of Italy, and have lunch and dinner at restaurants in Manhattan serving authentic Italian regional cuisine using ingredients imported from Italy.

"We strongly believe that the CIA's mission, philosophy, emphasis on the student experience and superior educational capabilities are complementary to our education and awareness goals," says Italian Trade Commissioner Maurizio Forte in offering this free opportunity to students. "Our aim is to have students enter the foodservice industry with familiarity in hands-on use and advanced knowledge of authentic Italian products."

Forte says the daylong experience will provide CIA students with greater insight into the history, production, and use of Italian food products in the modern kitchen. It was completely booked within 10 minutes of being announced, according to David Whalen, the college's associate dean of student activities.