Why is truffle always wrapped in a blue cloth? The curious story of a centuries-old tradition.

Have you ever wondered why the cloth used to store and transport truffles is always the same and the same blue color?

Mr. Beppe , a great expert on the subject, never fails to point out that "in the world of truffles, there's no dishcloth that isn't blue." But why this choice? What is the function of this accessory that has never changed over the years? Let's explore together this small but fundamental detail of truffle tradition.

The choice of blue is no coincidence. Historically, the dyes used to dye blue fabrics have always proven extremely stable. This means that blue is one of the colors least likely to release pigments or stain, a crucial aspect when wrapping a delicate and precious product like truffles. Furthermore, blue has always been associated with cleanliness and hygiene, and this association with safety and neutrality has become deeply rooted in truffle culture, making blue the traditional color of this instrument.

But it's not just a matter of color: the cloth's material plays a crucial role. The cloth has always been made of cotton, a natural material that offers the right amount of absorbency to keep the truffle dry, protected from condensation but without impeding its breathing. This characteristic is crucial to ensuring the truffle retains its aroma and quality, preventing humidity from compromising the product. Furthermore, the strength and lightness of these materials, which must be washed only with water and no detergent, ensure the truffle is well protected during transport, without weighing it down. The weight of the cloth, in fact, is not a negligible detail, but a carefully considered feature. All truffle cloths weigh between 90 and 100 grams depending on the moisture they retain, a calibrated measurement known to traders to prevent significantly altering the truffle's overall weight, a crucial selling point. For this reason, truffle hunters carefully select lightweight yet sturdy fabrics that can perform their function without interfering with the weighing process. However, be careful! During the official weighing, the cloth is removed to ensure precise measurement of the truffle only.

In conclusion, the blue cloth is more than just a practical element: it's a true symbol of tradition and belonging to a world where every detail matters. From the hills of the Langhe to markets around the world, this simple cloth represents the care and respect for one of Italy's most precious gastronomic treasures. And so, every time we see a truffle wrapped in its classic blue cloth, we can imagine the long history, filled with passion and dedication, hidden behind this small gesture.