Edible Souvenirs from Emilia Romagna

No trip to Emilia-Romagna – widely regarded as the gastronomic heart of Italy – would be complete without bringing home a few carefully chosen edible souvenirs. This is especially true if you’ve had the chance to attend a cookery class or visit local producers, where you learn how deeply food, place, and tradition are connected.

Many of the ingredients that define Emilian cuisine are difficult (or impossible) to find outside Italy. Even when available abroad, the genuine versions often come at a much higher price. Bringing home authentic local products allows you to recreate dishes, share stories, and gift something meaningful to fellow food lovers.

If you’re curious to understand where these products come from before buying them, joining one of our food tours from Modena offers the opportunity to visit producers directly and learn how to recognise quality and authenticity.

What Food Souvenirs to Buy in Emilia-Romagna

Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan Cheese)
The real thing. After visiting a dairy and seeing how Parmigiano Reggiano is made, you’ll know exactly how to spot an authentic wheel by its markings and ageing. It’s one of the region’s most iconic products and can be transported safely for short periods without refrigeration, making it an ideal souvenir.

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
Aged, syrupy balsamic vinegar from Modena is one of the most prized culinary souvenirs you can take home. While vinegars aged 25 years or more are exceptional (and costly), a well-made 12-year-old Traditional Balsamic Vinegar offers outstanding quality at a more approachable price. A few drops are enough to transform even the simplest dish.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Brisighella
Produced in the hills of the Tosco-Romagnolo Apennines, Brisighella olive oil is instantly recognisable by its vivid emerald-green colour and low acidity. The flavour is fruity, slightly bitter, and aromatic, with notes of herbs and almonds. It’s a distinctive product that reflects the unique microclimate of the area.

Nocino Liqueur from Modena
Nocino is a traditional walnut liqueur made from unripe green walnuts, sugar, and spices. Deep, aromatic, and slightly bittersweet, it’s often homemade by local families but also available from small producers. It makes a thoughtful gift and is traditionally enjoyed as a digestif.

Salt from Cervia
Harvested for centuries from the salt flats along the Adriatic coast, Cervia salt is produced through natural evaporation. Less processed than industrial salt, it retains trace minerals such as magnesium and potassium. In addition to culinary salt, the area also produces salt-based chocolates and wellness products that make unusual and memorable gifts.

These are just a few of the many edible souvenirs worth seeking out in Emilia-Romagna. Whether discovered in local markets, small artisan shops, or directly at the source during producer visits, these products capture the flavour and spirit of the region long after your journey ends.