Australians are turning to the kitchen to express their love and appreciation this Valentine’s Day, according to new research from Barilla.
The pasta brand says food is taking centre stage in how consumers celebrate the most romantic day of the year.
“Whether it’s cooking for a partner, friends, or even yourself, food has become an essential ingredient in creating memories,” says the brand.
Barilla’s research finds that of two thirds (64%) of respondents celebrate Valentine’s Day by sharing a meal – whether at home or at a restaurant. In fact, 64% of those surveyed prefer sharing a meal as their go-to way to express and celebrate love in their daily lives.
For many, the most heartfelt way to show love is through acts of service, with over a quarter (28%) of respondents using food to create memorable experiences. Nearly half (49%) of those surveyed say food is how they demonstrate care, especially through cooking for others.
When it comes to what’s being dished up for Valentine’s Day, Italian is the go-to choice for Australian lovers, with a third (36%) of respondents indulging in the comfort of the cuisine.
Pasta is leading the way as the dish of choice. In fact, a fifth (22%) of those surveyed say they’re most likely to cook pasta for a romantic dinner.
“Food has an undeniable ability to bring people together, and pasta, in particular, has this magic that makes meals feel both familiar and special,” says Barilla ANZ Brand Manager Mette Jorgensen.
“Whether you’re cooking for your partner, friends, or even yourself, pasta is a dish that’s easy to personalise, making it the perfect way to show your love. That’s why Barilla is excited to be bringing back our Valentine’s Day limited-edition heart-shaped pasta that fuses two hearts together into one.”
The limited-edition pasta (RRP $4.90) is now available at Coles.