Naples, April 1 – The Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), for over forty years the undisputed guardian of authentic Neapolitan pizza tradition worldwide, today announces a historic turning point that redefines the boundaries of the culinary craft.

After more than 18 months of confidential research, carried out in collaboration with the Department of Advanced Materials Engineering and Gastronomic Technologies at the University, the AVPN Board of Directors has ratified a groundbreaking addendum to the International Regulations.

The new certification “Verace Pizza Napoletana – Microwave Method (MPM)” is now officially established.

The Challenge of Modern Times

“The world is changing, and AVPN cannot stand by and watch,” stated the Association’s President. “New generations, the fast pace of urban life, and the need to reduce emissions have pushed us to explore a sustainable and efficient alternative to the traditional wood-fired oven—without compromising the absolute quality of the final product. The microwave, when used under a strict protocol, is no longer an enemy.”

The STG 4.0 Protocol

This is not about reheating a frozen pizza. The “MPM” certification involves an extremely rigorous process based on “Pulsed Magnetron with Volcanic Resonance” (PMVR) technology, developed specifically for this purpose.

The protocol includes:

1. The Dough: No changes. It remains the traditional AVPN dough.
2. Shaping: Slightly thicker in the center to counteract wave effects.
3. The Base: Mandatory use of a micronized refractory stone plate, preheated in the microwave for 3 minutes at maximum power (“Vesuvius Crisp” function).
4. Baking: Exactly 90 seconds at 800W, followed by 10 seconds of “360° Infrared Grill” to achieve the mako-texture (the characteristic spots) on the crust.

The Goal

AVPN aims to certify the first 500 “Microwave-Only” pizzerias by the end of 2026, opening the market to venues without chimneys and bringing “true authenticity” into offices and homes. “A small step for a pizzaiolo, a giant leap for Neapolitan identity,” the statement concludes.

Application forms to request inspection of the new certified microwave ovens will soon be available on the official website.

Happy April Fools’ Day from AVPN! Innovation is part of our DNA and we are proud of our latest-generation certified ovens—but for 800W cooking… you’ll have to wait just a little longer! 😉🍕