Francesco Rivella, father of Nutella, dies at 97 after shaping Ferrero’s iconic chocolate and spread

Nutella’s co-creator Francesco Rivella, who helped develop signature chocolate-hazelnut spread, has passed away.

Francesco Rivella, the Italian chemist credited with helping to create Nutella, passed away on February 14 at the age of 97. Dubbed the "father of Nutella" by Italian media, Rivella played a key role in developing the globally popular chocolate-hazelnut spread during his tenure at Ferrero.

Born in Barbaresco, Piedmont, Rivella pursued a degree in bromatological chemistry in Turin before joining Ferrero in 1952. At just 25 years old, he began working in the company’s chemistry lab in Alba, where he contributed to the development of several iconic products, including Kinder and Ferrero Rocher. His deep understanding of raw materials, refining techniques, and flavor blending helped shape the taste and texture of Ferrero’s beloved treats, ensuring their global success. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a senior manager and a close associate of Ferrero's founder, Michele Ferrero.

Journalist Gigi Padovani, in his book Mondo Nutella (Nutella World), highlighted Rivella's dedication to innovation, noting that he and Ferrero traveled globally to sample confectionery products—not to replicate them, but to refine and improve upon them. His ability to balance tradition with innovation made him a key figure in Ferrero’s expansion into a multinational powerhouse.

Beyond his contributions to the confectionery industry, Rivella served as the president of the Order of Chemists of Piedmont and maintained a close friendship with Italian-Jewish writer and Holocaust survivor Primo Levi.

After retiring, he settled in Alba, dedicating his time to fruit farming and pallapugno, a traditional ball game. A widower, Rivella is survived by three sons, a daughter, and seven grandchildren. His funeral was held on February 17 in Alba, and he will be laid to rest in his hometown of Barbaresco.

Rivella’s passing comes just days before the tenth anniversary of Michele Ferrero’s death, marking the end of an era for Ferrero and the confectionery world. His legacy lives on in every jar of Nutella enjoyed worldwide.