New research shows eating pasta can lift your mood
19 June 2025
Parma – Italy, Recent research conducted in Italy by Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, with support from Barilla Group, has explored the psychological and emotional effects of pasta consumption. The research team, led by Professor Francesco Pagnini, a clinical psychologist with previous academic affiliations at Harvard University, investigates the relationship between pasta consumption and emotional well-being. The findings, published in the journal Food Science & Nutrition, suggest that pasta consumption is associated with increased happiness, reduced stress, and improved overall quality of life.
The study, titled “Pasta, what a feeling! A multi-method study on the relationship between pasta consumption and happiness”, used an observational design to examine the unique emotional and psychological effect of pasta. Unlike other foods, the study — with a focus on the Italian market — revealed that pasta seems to boost happiness and reduce stress, particularly when enjoyed in social settings like family dinners or gatherings with friends.
The first part of the research involved a sample of 1,532 Italian participants. Data were collected through surveys and reveal that 41% of respondents associate pasta with family, while 21% link it to positive emotions, 10% to the pleasure of eating pasta, and 7% to comfort and relaxation.
“Our research indicates that the simple act of sharing a pasta meal can create lasting emotional connections and provide comfort like no other,” comments Professor Pagnini. “According to this study, no other carbohydrate-based food — such as rice, bread, pizza, or other nutritional options — is able to trigger such an increase in happiness as pasta when consumed with others. The data suggest that the combination of pasta and social interaction significantly boosts happiness levels.”
“This study reaffirms how pasta’s delightful taste and nourishing qualities can bring a sense of happiness to everyday life,” says Valeria Rapetti, R&D Global Nutrition and Wellbeing Director of Barilla Group.“This study beautifully captures how pasta brings people together, creating moments of happiness.”
Key Findings:
- Pasta is a regular choice for 44% of participants, who enjoy it 2–3 times a week; nearly 23.9% make it a daily habit.
- Pasta is linked to feelings of satiety (34%), satisfaction (29%), and happiness (10%).
- Emotional associations include family (41%), positive emotions (21%), and comfort (7%).
- Pasta consumption is associated with reduced negative emotions, lower stress, and increased mindfulness.
- Consuming pasta in a social setting significantly enhances happiness.
Pasta emerges as more than just a nutritional staple; it is a key contributor to emotional well-being. The study underscores the importance of considering the psychological and social dimensions of food consumption.
Latest Press Releases
9 July 2025
SUSTAINABILITYThe future according to Barilla: new Sustainability Report issued, focus on regenerative agriculture, renewable energy and community
Robust results and vision to 2030: the Group ended 2024 with a turnover of almost €4.9 billion and €300 million in investments
2 July 2025
EVENTSBarilla Launches 7th Edition of Good Food Makers to Shape the Future of Food
11 April 2025
BARILLA GROUPThe Table Is Set: Barilla Becomes Formula 1®’s Official Pasta Partner
The Italian brand will bring the flavors of its pasta to the races, turning every meal into a moment of meaningful connection where fans, like family, celebrate the spirit of togetherness.