THE beloved “inventor” of Nutella has died aged 97 after helping to create the world-famous hazelnut spread.
Ferrero chemist Francesco Rivella passed away on Valentine’s Day – exactly 10 years after the death of Ferrero founder, Michele Ferrero.
FacebookFerrero chemist Francesco Rivella passed away on Valentine’s Day[/caption]
Dubbed the ‘father of Nutella’ by Italian media, Rivella contributed to the creation of the beloved hazelnut spreadYouTube
AlamyFrancesco Rivella worked in Ferrero’s ‘chemistry room’, where some of the brand’s most iconic creations were born[/caption]
Dubbed the “father of Nutella” by Italian media, Rivella contributed to the creation of the world’s most famous – and loved – hazelnut spread.
Born in Barbaresco, Italy, he began working at Ferrero in 1952 – before it became a multinational powerhouse.
Having just graduated in Chemistry from the University of Turin, at 25, he started off in the company’s “chemistry room”, where some of the brand’s most iconic creations were born.
He was part of the team responsible for studying raw materials to develop new products.
They blended, refined, and tasted ingredients in pursuit of the perfect flavours.
Over his long career, Rivella became a senior manager within the gargantuan company, working as Michele Ferrero’s right-hand man.
Journalist Gigi Padovani recalled in his book “Mondo Nutella” that the pair travelled the world to buy sweets “not to copy them, but to make them better”.
Rivella was a friend of the Italian-Jewish writer, chemist, and Holocaust survivor Primo Levi.
He also served as president of the Order of Chemists of Piedmont.
After retiring, he lived in Alba, where he dedicated himself to fruit farming and the traditional ball game “pallapugno”.
Rivella was a widower but leaves behind three sons, a daughter, and seven grandchildren.
His funeral will be held today in Alba, where he lived, and he will be laid to rest in Barbaresco.
AlamyNutella spread is a worldwide favourite[/caption] Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
