By reviving suspicions of a cosy, protectionist culture in the Italian elite, the affair has damaged the country's reputation as a place in which to do business just what Italy didn't need as it clears up the mess left behind after the spectacular collapse of Parmalat, a family-controlled dairy group.
Then there is the commercial -- I don't even remember what they were pitching -- of two or three kids in the kitchen making amess after spilling the cereal.