@wellnes.by.daily: American pasta has been called illegal in Italy since 1967 because of synthetic additives and ingredients restricted under strict Italian food laws. Italy’s 1967 legislation established rules designed to protect traditional pasta from artificial preservatives, chemical enhancements and nontraditional manufacturing practices. By excluding certain synthetic additives from ordinary dried pasta, Italy sought to preserve the purity of spaghetti and penne made from durum wheat semolina and water. American pasta may contain added vitamins and other ingredients that differ from these standards. The law reflects Italy’s commitment to food authenticity and culinary heritage.