The Italian chemist Francesco Rivella, known as the creator of the world-famous hazelnut cream “Nutella”, passed away at the age of 97. Rivella, who helped contribute to the development of Nutella in his years of work at the chocolate products company Ferrero, is known as one of the key figures in shaping Nutella into its current form and is often referred to as the “Father of Nutella.” It was reported that the Italian chemist passed away on Valentine’s Day, February 14th. Witnessing the birth of Nutella and being one of the most important figures of the brand, Rivella made significant contributions to the sweet world from the early years of Ferrero.

Francesco Rivella joined Ferrero in 1952 at just 25 years old. Having studied bromatological chemistry in Turin, Rivella was a key member of the team in Ferrero’s laboratory that studied the basic components of sweets and created mixtures. It was during this time that experiments and formula development processes began to reach the initial texture of Nutella. The birth of Nutella is based on the hazelnut and chocolate mixture called “Giandujot,” produced in 1946. Initially known for its sliceable structure, it became creamier in 1951 and was introduced to the market as “SuperCrema.” Finally, through recipe changes in 1964, the formula of Nutella as we know it today was shaped.

WHAT’S INSIDE NUTELLA? Italian journalist Gigi Padovani explains in his book Mondo Nutella (Nutella World) that Francesco Rivella and Ferrero’s executive Michele Ferrero conducted research on sweets worldwide, not only to imitate them but to improve them. According to Ferrero’s website, Nutella consists of seven basic ingredients: sugar, palm oil, hazelnuts, milk, cocoa, lecithin, and vanilla. After retiring, Francesco Rivella settled in Alba, focusing on fruit cultivation and also contributing to the development of the traditional Italian sport pallapugno. Rivella left behind three sons, a daughter, and seven grandchildren, and his death coincided with the tenth anniversary of the founder of Ferrero, Michele Ferrero’s passing. This tragic coincidence once again reminds us of the immortal legacy of the legendary brand built by Rivella and Ferrero together.