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.