Heinz, the iconic condiment brand, has ventured into the world of pasta with the launch of their first new pasta dish in over a decade: Heinz Spaghetti Carbonara. This canned version of the beloved Italian classic has sparked a firestorm of controversy, particularly among Italian chefs who see it as an affront to their culinary heritage.
The company’s decision to release a canned carbonara is driven by their research showing that younger consumers prioritize convenience and speed over traditional cooking methods. Heinz emphasizes that their carbonara is a quick and effortless solution for a satisfying meal, perfect for busy individuals or those looking for a fuss-free dinner option. However, this justification hasn’t appeased those who hold the traditional carbonara recipe sacred.
Michelin-starred chef Alessandro Pipero bluntly declared the canned carbonara “the end of civilization.” His sentiments were echoed by other Italian chefs, who expressed disgust at the thought of this iconic dish being confined to a tin can. They pointed out that the traditional carbonara, born out of the post-World War II era, is a delicate balance of pancetta, eggs, cheese, and black pepper, requiring skilled preparation and careful execution.
While Heinz’s canned carbonara does include some traditional ingredients like pancetta, cheese, and garlic flavoring, it also relies on powdered cheese, skimmed milk, cornstarch, and sugar, a combination that many consider an egregious deviation from the original recipe. Some have argued that Heinz’s approach is more aligned with the origins of carbonara, which some believe was born out of necessity, using readily available ingredients like canned egg powder.
Despite the backlash, Heinz remains steadfast in its belief that its canned carbonara caters to a growing demand for convenient and easy-to-prepare meals. The company insists that their version is a perfect solution for those seeking a quick and satisfying meal without the hassle of traditional cooking.
With a price point of around £2 per tin, it’s easy to try Heinz’s canned carbonara and form your own opinion. Just be prepared for the inevitable judgment from any Italian culinary purists you may encounter.
