Announcement and Company Decision
Ronzoni, a popular pasta brand, discontinued their pastina on January 4, 2023. After Ronzoni’s long-term supplier stopped production in January 2023, it had no other option. The manufacturing suspension was finalised by late December 2022 after a “difficult” and “dire” choice. Pastina, a little pasta with cultural and gastronomic value, was discontinued, ending an era for many fans.
Social Media Response
The announcement garnered over 11,000 likes and 1,700 Instagram comments, demonstrating strong emotional response. Comments ranged from humour, like “You’ll be getting a call from my nonna,” to outrage, like “there’s still time to delete this and change ur minds ronzoni.” The strong reaction shows how many people grew up with pastina and have a comfort food connection.
Description of Pastina
Pastina is small, measuring 1.5 to 2 millimetres in diameter, and comes in round “acini di pepe” and star-shaped “stelline.” In the US, the star-shaped version is popular in soups and risotto. Pastina, which cooks quickly, is popular for fast, nutritious meals during colder months and illness.
| Shape | Diameter (mm) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Acini di Pepe | 1.5 – 2 | Soups, Risottos |
| Stelline | 1.5 – 2 | Soups, Comfort Food |
Cultural Significance
Pastina—fondly called “Italian Penicillin,” soothes colds and upset stomachs. In Italian and Italian-American communities, pastina is a beloved element of childhood and family customs.
Social Media Trend
Pastina’s TikTok and Instagram popularity shows its cultural significance. The hashtag #pastina has almost 77 million views, with viral dishes and tutorials praising its versatility. Influencers criticised Ronzoni for missing out on this digital trend, which may have increased brand awareness and sales.
Other Brands and Consumer Advice
Barilla, Colavita, San Giorgio, and Target’s Good & Gather make pastina after Ronzoni stopped. Support these alternatives by buying pastina goods to show demand and gratitude. Market responses have increased demand, with some outlets selling out and internet prices soaring.
Brands Offering Pastina
| Brand | Availability | Price Increase (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Barilla | Yes | Moderate |
| Colavita | Yes | High |
| San Giorgio | Yes | Low |
| Good & Gather | Yes | Low |
Manufacturing Issues
A third-party manufacturer stopped making Ronzoni’s pastina in January 2023. Ronzoni unable to find a substitute manufacturer that could match pastina’s shape and quality despite repeated efforts. Modern production technologies’ challenges compared to conventional ways complicate the situation.
Public and Media Reaction
Gen Xers and Italian Americans who grew up with pastina as a comforting staple are outraged by the cessation. Some Twitter and Facebook users threatened to boycott Ronzoni and switch to competitors, calling the decision a hate crime. The topic has been covered by Bon Appétit and The New York Times, highlighting its food cultural relevance.
| Platform | Reaction Type | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Emotional, Humorous, Angry | 1,700+ | |
| Outrage, Disappointment | Numerous | |
| Threats of Boycott, Alternative Choices | Numerous |
Emotional Bond and Community Engagement
Many personal stories online describe pastina as “comfort in a bowl” or “a hug in a bowl.” Food writers and the public have signed petitions urging Ronzoni to reconsider its decision.
Historical Context
Ronzoni, founded in 1915, popularised pastina in America and ingrained it in Italian American society. Pastina has been a culinary icon for years, making its discontinuation more poignant.
Cooking Practices
Pastina is traditionally served with butter, cheese, or in hearty soups. Its fast cooking time makes it ideal for feeding kids and making simple, tasty meals.
Market Response and Future Prospects
Since Ronzoni’s pastina is gone, several stores are selling out as customers stock up. Online marketplaces have raised prices to 20 times the initial amount. Ronzoni has not ruled out reinstating pastina, but no plans exist, allowing industry experts to speculate on new manufacturing methods.
FAQ
Why did Ronzoni discontinue pastina?
Ronzoni discontinued pastina after their supplier stopped making it and they couldn’t find a new one.
Ronzoni pastina alternatives?
Pastina is still made by Barilla, Colavita, and San Giorgio.
Public reaction to the discontinuation?
Many are upset and threatening to switch to competitors.
Is there a chance pastina will return?
Ronzoni has considered bringing back pastina, but no plans are underway.
Why is pastina culturally significant?
Italian Americans call pastina “Italian Penicillin.” It is a soothing staple.
