There is plenty of gelato throughout Italy but being able to spot the real deal takes a bit of knowledge.
Please know that I will go to the ends of the earth to eat gelato and have been known to have it at least once a day sometimes twice and more, and yes, I do have my favorite gelaterias in Italy.
Before I go to a region, especially for the first time, I will do my research on the best gelaterias for the towns I will be visiting. One must be careful when visiting the larger cities of Italy as these gelaterias may not make their gelato with natural and genuine ingredients.
Rules:
Evaluate the color of the gelato. For example, look at the pistachio flavor and make sure it is not a neon color. I remember being in Verona and there was an artisanal gelateria around the corner from the hotel. I repeatedly returned in hopes of ordering this flavor as every time I went it was sold out. Finally the day before I left Verona I was lucky to sample their pistachio and it was delicious to say the least. Of course it was the real deal.
Storage of gelato. All good gelato should be stored in stainless steel containers. However , if it is arranged in huge mounds, it is full of artificial ingredients and stabilizers.
If you remember these few simple rules you will enjoy what the Italians enjoy every chance they get.