Author: Clare

Chefs together, can change the world!

Earlier this year, the Chefs’ Manifesto, together with several partner networks, conducted a survey titled, ‘Chefs’ Pledge’. The intent was to learn from participants, what the top practical actions are that chefs can take to actively engage in transforming food systems, to ensure good food for all. Based on the Chefs’ Manifesto Thematic Areas, the aim was to further narrow and focus the SDG roadmap for chefs.

Drum roll please… the results are in!

The survey was conducted from late February through to May, inviting participants via social media, direct email, through our partner networks and various campaigns. 

For each of the Chefs’ Manifesto 8 Thematic Areas, participants were asked to rank in order which action, taken from the Chefs’ Manifesto Action Plan, would enact the most change for food systems transformation once implemented. The following is an analysis of the results.

The results show the actions that received the highest percentage of number one ranked votes. A further, more detailed analysis of all the ranked actionable outcome will be available via PDF soon.

(Please note, any discrepancy in the percentage figures is accounted for by respondents who may have skipped a question.)

Demographics

The Chefs’ Manifesto surveyed respondents from in excess of 50 countries, with a wide variety of skills and expertise, with a common goal: to make positive transformation to our food systems and provide good food for all. Survey participants identify as being engaged as one of the following: a chef; a cook; a culinary student; other (Figure 1).

Figure 1

To capture the diversity of the survey participants, a geographical location was requested. Participants identified as being from 6 continents, including Africa, North America, Latin America, Asia, Australia and Europe. Over 50 countries were represented – WOW – including, but are not limited too: India, the Philippines, Ghana, Slovakia, South Africa, Colombia, China, Brazil, Mexico, Ireland Australia, Austria, New Zealand, Kenya and Switzerland.

Survey Questions

Thematic Area 1: Ingredients grown with respect for the earth and its oceans

Action 1: Get to know your ingredients – how they are grown, reared or sourced – and how to choose ingredients with the lowest impact on the environment (38%). Action 2: Using your purchasing power by choosing producers or suppliers who work sustainably and to only buy from the sources who share your values (28%). Action 3: Lead by example and champion sustainable ingredients and producers through your menus and in your restaurants (34%). 

The data concluded that the majority of participants believe Action 1 – getting to know your ingredients – is the most important step that chefs can take, to respect the earth and its oceans and enact real change. For more inspiration visit here. 

Thematic Area 2: Protection of biodiversity and improving animal welfare

Action 1: Leading by example through maintaining the rich diversity of the world’s natural larder by using different varieties of plants, grains, and proteins and to champion “wild” variants and avoid monoculture (31.8%). Action 2: Leading by example through raising awareness about the importance of free-range eggs, sustainably sourced fish and animal welfare on our menus and in our restaurants (21.8%). Action 3: Use our purchasing power through choosing producers who commit to higher animal welfare standards and avoiding industrialised livestock production (19.4%). Action 4: Use purchasing power to choose only fish and seafood that is abundant and sourced sustainably (27%). 

Voted the most important action to enable the protection of biodiversity and improve animal welfare for participants, is to lead by example through maintaining the rich diversity of the world’s natural larder by using different varieties of plants, grains, and proteins and to champion “wild” variants and avoid monoculture. For more inspiration visit here.

Thematic Area 3: Investment in Livelihoods

Action 1: Get to know your ingredients: who grows, harvests, sources and packages them? Investigate the journey from farm to fork and reduce the number of the intermediaries between you and the farmer (23.4%). Action 2: Use your purchasing power to choose products that are priced fairly, to enable a viable livelihood for farmers and suppliers (13.5%). Action 3: Use your purchasing power to support more farmers to access marketplaces through choosing to buy from small-scale producers (13%). Action 4: Lead by example through paying fair wages, promoting equal opportunities and providing training within your restaurants (15.8%). Action 5: Lead by example through providing training and mentoring to help your chefs (15.8%). Action 6: Spread the word and promote the empowerment of women across the sector. They are often underserved and underrepresented and further support is required for female farmers, female producers and female chefs (18.5%). 

The data showed that the most important action for participants is to know all about the ingredients and uncover the journey from farm to fork. For more inspiration visit here.

Action 1: Lead by example through separating, monitoring and setting targets to reduce food waste. It is also about managing food safety processes and use by dates to avoid wastage (15%). Action 2: Lead by example through planning food orders and menus to minimise food waste through offering smaller portion sizes (11.9%). Action 3: Lead by example through using the whole ingredient and encouraging nose to tail, root to leaf eating. It is about being creative through pickling, preserving, dehydrating and freezing (11%). Action 4: Use your purchasing power to engage with suppliers and producers to help incorporate surplus produce into menus (10.6%). Action 5: Become a community food champion and re-distribute surplus food through community sharing and food bank programmes or apps (11%). Action 6: Lead by example through being resource efficient and manage water usage to cut costs and protect the environment (13%). Action 7: Lead by example through diverting waste from landfill and to investigate turning food waste into compost or bio-gas . It is about considering offsetting the carbon used in your restaurant or switching to renewable energy sources (14%). Action 8: Use your purchasing power through working with producers and suppliers to avoid excess packaging and to use recycled, recyclable and biodegradable packaging (13.5%). 

The participants have ranked the Action 1 – leading by example through separating, monitoring and setting targets to reduce food waste – as the most important. For more inspiration, visit here.

Thematic Area 5: Celebration of seasonal and local foods

Action 1: Use your purchasing power through buying locally produced foods in season and avoiding air-freighted foods (27%). Action 2: Be a community food champion – showcasing local producers and traditional techniques on your menus and restaurants (17%). Action 3: Become a community food champion through engaging with your local community and working with schools and teaching kids about nutritious food and how to cook it (17%). Action 4: Become a community food champion through becoming the connection between producers and consumers. Help to show people where their food comes from by championing farmers and connecting them to diners. Organise events to bring people – young and old – together around good food.(16%) Action 5: Become a food champion through promoting kitchen gardens and urban farming. Encourage people to start growing their own food. (24%).

Participants ranked Action 1 – to use your purchasing power through buying locally produced foods in season and avoiding air-freighted foods – as the most important action when celebrating seasonal and local foods, with a number 1 response globally of 27%. For more inspiration, visit here.

Thematic Area 6: A focus on plant-based ingredients

Action 1: Lead by example to make vegetables, beans and pulses the centre of your dishes (32.5%). Action 2: Lead by example to use less, and better, meat (20.6%). Action 3: Lead by example to champion plant-based proteins on your menus and in your restaurants (20.6%). Be creative in describing vegetable based dishes. Action 4: Lead by example and avoid using words like “vegan” and “vegetarian” which may be off-putting (26.3%).

Action 1 – to lead by example by making vegetable, beans and pulses the centre of your dishes – was ranked the number 1 action most likely to enact change and transform food systems in focussing on plant-based ingredients. For more inspiration, visit here.

Thematic Area 7: Education on food safety & healthy diets

Action 1: Lead by example and showcase best practise on food safety, allergens and nutrition in your kitchens and through your menus. (24%) Action 2: Be a community food champion and support good nutrition education for all- young and old. Volunteer to teach a nutritious cooking class in a school, community centre or care home.(18%) Action 3: Be a community food champion: Educate diners about the importance of eating a colourful plate. (20%) Action 4: Spread the word: Use annual events like International Chefs Day (20 October), World Food Day (16 October) and local holidays to get creative and engage people in nutritious cooking. (18%) Action 5: Spread the word: Use technology as a tool for teaching others. Make videos, run web-casts and on-line campaigns. (20%).

The majority of participants responded that the highest action to enact transformation, would be leading by example and showcasing best practise on food safety, allergens and nutrition in your kitchens and through your menus. More more inspiration visit here.

Thematic Area 8: Nutritious food that is accessible & affordable for all

Action 1: Be a community food champion – support initiatives that provide access to nutritious meals in your communities – whether that be a soup kitchen, food bank or community garden project. (43%) Action 2: Be a community food champion and help raise awareness about what a nutritious meal looks like and how to cook well on a budget.(30%) Action 3: Spread the word by building a chef community across the world to share stories, best practice and learnings on how to help ensure good food is accessible and affordable for all. (18%) Action 4: Spread the word and use social media to raise awareness about food issues and how to be part of the solution. (9%)

The action that was ranked to have the highest impact is to be a community food champion – support initiatives that provide access to nutritious meals in your communities – whether that be a soup kitchen, food bank or community garden project. For more inspiration visit here.

Practical and innovative actions from participants:

At the end of the survey, participants were asked to share practical and innovative actions they are aware of, based on the above thematic areas. A summary of responses is as follows:

• To encourage slow cooked nourishing food
• To collect compostables from local merchants and vendors in order to reduce waste by the landfills in developing countries
• To use a “Think Vegetables, Think Fruits” philosophy
• To promote zero-waste kitchen concept
• To reach more students and families and offer more virtual courses
• To have a menu calendar and engage students in the process of harvesting, preparing, and cooking delicious and nutritious food
• To utilise earth hour platform as an effective tool for awareness
• To create communities with chefs to reach more people
• To develop a solar-powered kitchen in the heart of city centres
• To go local
• To promote the hand-used pasta that is made by semolina and water
• To think about furniture inside your restaurant and select eco-friendly choices
• To have communities at grassroots level that increase the awareness on food waste
• To lobby  lawmakers to use government programs to support regenerative food systems
• To help people to learn how to cook on a budget
• To be a school nutrition champion and educate students on nutritious food
• To connect farms with schools
• To donate thousands of rescued meals to local hunger relief programs
• To promote meatless Mondays
• To install bulk organic milk dispensaries
• To offer locally grown organic produce
• To focus more on planet-based food in schools
• To promote the use of locally sourced seafood and beef
• To switch from gas appliances to other electric alternatives
• To promote gender equality when it comes to the kitchen
• To grow your own food
• To support farm workers
• To be aware of how xenophobia and racism play a role in our food systems
• To educate people about the future of food

The Chefs’ Manifesto would like to thank the following partners for making this research possible:

World Association of Chef’s Societies, Social Gastronomy Movement, Chef Ann Foundation, Le Cordon Bleu London, Good Food Fund China, James Beard Foundation, and Chefs 4 the Planet.

To see more about why we conducted this research, please visit here.

Move over kale, there’s a new superfood in town. Explore the facts vs fiction to decide if kelp is the best change you’ll make for your health in 2021.

It seems like every year, there is a new ‘superfood’. Whether it is a lack of research or just clever marketing, it is difficult to truly define if the latest superfood trend is actually good for you or not. As kelp emerges from underwater forests and onto our plates, we are facing the health claims of this new nutrient-rich alternative with suspicion. Should we really be swapping kale for kelp?

Kale: It’s not easy being green

After a lot of convincing, Kale has finally been accepted as a health food staple. Whilst it is one of the most nutrient-dense plant foods in the world and looks decorative on a plate, it’s bitter-tasting leaves have been a challenge for those who don’t see value in trying to make it taste good for the health benefits. Featured on the menu of every trendy café you visit, kale boasts an array of superfood health claims:

• Boosts your immune system
• Very high in antioxidants
• Cancer-fighting claims
• Helps you feel fuller for longer
• May help lower cholesterol
• May aid in weight-loss

The list goes on, but where has it gone wrong? Kale has faced a lot of backlash from health professionals, claiming that eating raw kale is not good for you and could be the most contaminated vegetable on supermarket shelves. A study revealed about 60% of kale samples tested positive for a type of human carcinogenic, featuring on The Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” list. Furthermore, according to the IIN kale’s nutrient-dense profile may also affect the thyroid, blood-clotting and function of the gut. So, for those with related health conditions, there really can be too much of a good thing.


Kale Smoothies – A staple for superfood enthusiasts

Kelp: The understated vegetable of the sea

Kelp is not a staple in Western cultures like it has been for many years in Japan and across Asia, but this could be about to change. A strong competitor to the health benefits of kale, kelp is now sliding into a range of everyday dishes such as soups, salads, smoothies, snacks and even seasonings. Chef Jamie Oliver has even referred to seaweed as “the most nutritious vegetable in the world” and claims it has credited to his weight loss. The hype around kelp as a new superfood closely echoes that of kale:

• Disease and cancer-fighting claims
• Weight-loss benefits
• High in antioxidants
• Featuring a range of nutrients
• Rich in vitamins and minerals

But much like kale, there has been early signs of disclosure that kelp’s superfood properties may not be suitable for everyone. Once again, addressing the possible affect on the thyroid and the blood, kelp also absorbs heavy metals which can be hazardous for our health. As the kelp demand begins to take off, there are also questions around sustaining the supply long-term. Kelp forests have been greatly impacted by the increasing ocean temperatures and seabeds are vanishing in places such as south-east of Tokyo, “in what experts warn is a glimpse into the apocalyptic future facing Japan and its fishermen” says The Guardian.

Kelp in Fine Dining by @chefwilliameick, Instagram

The facts of the fad

Here is a comparison showing a handful of the nutritional elements for kelp and kale:

	KELP (per 100g)	KALE (per 100g)
Energy (kJ)	180kJ	176kJ
Water Content	81.58g	87g
Proteins	1.68g	2.8g
Dietary Fibre	1.3g	1.7g
Carbohydrates	9.57g	8.32g
Calcium	168mg	205mg
Iron	2.85mg	3mg
Potassium	89mg	450mg
Magnesium	121mg	88mg
Zinc	1.23mg	0.37mg
Sodium	233mg	70mg
Vitamin A (IU)	116IU	3100IU
Vitamin B6	0mg	0.23mg
Vitamin C	3mg	130mg

View the source of the full nutritional table here.

Based on these nutritional facts, it is clear that both kelp and kale are rich in health benefits and either would be a healthy addition to your meals, based on your dietary requirements. It could be viewed from this table that either vegetable is slightly more favourable nutritionally than the other, as it is measured by the individual and our differing dietary requirements.

So, is kelp the new kale?

Depending on the evolving addition of kelp in everyday recipes and your dietary needs, we conclude that whilst both kelp and kale have their pros and cons, either would be a healthy addition to your diet in moderation. Preference of taste and texture is also a factor here, for some may prefer to add kale’s strong, earthy taste to a dish rather than the oceanic flavour which kelp may bring. Knowledge is truly the key to identifying whether a superfood is really ‘super’ for you. If a new food trend is actually beneficial to what our body needs, the health benefits will hold their weight in facts.

Tell us what you prefer – kelp or kale?

---

This article was originally published by Worldchefs Education Partner Le Cordon Bleu.

Development Head Chef (Savoury) – Central Production Facility – UAE: Alshaya Food

Alshaya Food is a leading manufacturer of a wide range of ambient, chilled and frozen foods across the GCC. We have a passion for food and look for exceptional people with a wealth of experience in food manufacturing. We create great tasting products and are continuously innovative with recipes and technology used in our world class food production facilities.

We have two purpose built facilities, one in Kuwait in Farwaniya Dajeej area and the other is located in Dubai Industrial Park in Dubai, both locations are equipped with state-of-the-art food manufacturing equipment. We are in the process of building our first manufacturing facility in KSA which we are on target to open in 2022.

Our expertise and credibility enables us to deliver industry leading food safety standards and we are accredited to the highest possible standards. Our facilities encompass multiple interchangeable high and low care lines. We produce quality products in a variety of formats, these are driven by customer requirements.

We are looking for a talented and motivated Development Head Chef Product , with experience in the food manufacturing industry, who will enhance and develop existing and future menu and product lines of Alshaya Food Division’s various brands and external customer’s base.

Specifically, you will:

• Develop food products inline with customer briefs
• Innovate food products based on market trends.
• Ensure food products developed are to cost targets and aligned to site CCP and Quality Control standards
• Ensure adherence to all company quality, safety, environmental & production procedures and policies;
• Ensure the hygiene and quality standards of the NPD kitchen is always up to date with regards to the Alshaya policies and procedures
• Support the production team in developing Work Instructions
• Involvement in NPD product development

Qualifications & Requirements:

You will have/be:

• 5 years’ experience in a similar role, leading a team of junior staff
• Food manufacturing industry background
• Strong problem solving and communication skills

About Us:

Alshaya Group is a dynamic family-owned enterprise, first established in Kuwait in 1890. With a consistent record of growth and innovation, Alshaya Group is one of the world’s leading brand franchise operators, offering an unparalleled choice of well-loved international brands to customers.

Alshaya Group’s portfolio extends across MENA, Russia, Turkey and Europe, with thousands of stores, cafes, restaurants and leisure destinations, as well as a growing online and digital business.

Operating in multiple sectors including Fashion, Food, Health & Beauty, Pharmacy, Home Furnishings and Leisure & Entertainment, Alshaya Group colleagues are united by a commitment to authentically deliver great customer service and brand experiences.

Fresh, modern and relevant, Alshaya’s constantly evolving portfolio reflects the choices and lifestyle of its customers. From flagship stores and restaurants in prestige malls, through to local coffee shops, drive-thrus and online, Alshaya Group brings customers the brands they love in the places they want to be. Brands such as Starbucks, H&M, Mothercare, Debenhams, American Eagle Outfitters, P.F. Chang’s, The Cheesecake Factory, The Body Shop, M.A.C, Victoria’s Secret, Boots, Pottery Barn and KidZania.

• Advertised: 29 Apr 2021 Arabian Standard Time
• Application close: 28 May 2021 Arabian Standard Time

To Apply:

Click here to learn more and submit an application.

---

To search this job and thousands more, create your free Worldchefs online account!

---

Want to post a job with Worldchefs? Get in touch!

---

Senior Manager – Food Development – Central Production Facility – UAE: Alshaya Food

Alshaya Food is a leading manufacturer of a wide range of ambient, chilled and frozen foods across the GCC. We have a passion for food and look for exceptional people with a wealth of experience in food manufacturing. We create great tasting products and are continuously innovative with recipes and technology used in our world class food production facilities.

We have two purpose built facilities, one in Kuwait in Farwaniya Dajeej area and the other is located in Dubai Industrial Park in Dubai, both locations are equipped with state-of-the-art food manufacturing equipment. We are in the process of building our first manufacturing facility in KSA which we are on target to open in 2022.

Our expertise and credibility enables us to deliver industry leading food safety standards and we are accredited to the highest possible standards. Our facilities encompass multiple interchangeable high and low care lines. We produce quality products in a variety of formats, these are driven by customer requirements.

We are looking for a talented and motivated Senior Product Development Manager , with experience in the food manufacturing industry, who will Combine innovation, creative ideas and exceptional kitchen capabilities in developing products with commercial understanding of what will be profitable to the business and the customer.

Specifically, you will:

• Manage the development of products from idea generation to distribution in the market place;
• Evaluate opportunities within the market and based on product portfolio to develop new concepts;
• Ensure communication between brand and Alshaya Food regarding new product development and consider and represent the best interest of both sides;
• Search / evaluate new ingredients in order to improve the cost and / or quality of the products;
• Review menu production schedules with the brand considering seasonal options, promotional menus, and assure appropriate recipes, variety and quantity of food;
• Develop and standardize operating procedures for kitchen operations across all brands;

Qualifications & Requirements:

You will have/be:

• Minimum 8-10 years’ experience in a similar role
• Strong background in developing Pastry, Cakes & Desserts
• Strong background of food manufacturing industry
• Knowledge of food safety and food quality requirements in a central production facility
• Planning and project management experience
• Influencing and negotiation skills

About Us:

Alshaya Group is a dynamic family-owned enterprise, first established in Kuwait in 1890. With a consistent record of growth and innovation, Alshaya Group is one of the world’s leading brand franchise operators, offering an unparalleled choice of well-loved international brands to customers.

Alshaya Group’s portfolio extends across MENA, Russia, Turkey and Europe, with thousands of stores, cafes, restaurants and leisure destinations, as well as a growing online and digital business.

Operating in multiple sectors including Fashion, Food, Health & Beauty, Pharmacy, Home Furnishings and Leisure & Entertainment, Alshaya Group colleagues are united by a commitment to authentically deliver great customer service and brand experiences.

Fresh, modern and relevant, Alshaya’s constantly evolving portfolio reflects the choices and lifestyle of its customers. From flagship stores and restaurants in prestige malls, through to local coffee shops, drive-thrus and online, Alshaya Group brings customers the brands they love in the places they want to be. Brands such as Starbucks, H&M, Mothercare, Debenhams, American Eagle Outfitters, P.F. Chang’s, The Cheesecake Factory, The Body Shop, M.A.C, Victoria’s Secret, Boots, Pottery Barn and KidZania.

• Advertised: 29 Apr 2021 Arabian Standard Time
• Application close: 28 May 2021 Arabian Standard Time

To Apply:

Click here to learn more and submit an application.

---

To search this job and thousands more, create your free Worldchefs online account!

---

Want to post a job with Worldchefs? Get in touch!

---

Cakes & Desserts (Pastry) Development Executive Chef – CPF – UAE: Alshaya Food

Alshaya Food is a leading manufacturer of a wide range of ambient, chilled and frozen foods across the GCC. We have a passion for food and look for exceptional people with a wealth of experience in food manufacturing. We create great tasting products and are continuously innovative with recipes and technology used in our world class food production facilities.

We have two purpose built facilities, one in Kuwait in Farwaniya Dajeej area and the other is located in Dubai Industrial Park in Dubai, both locations are equipped with state-of-the-art food manufacturing equipment. We are in the process of building our first manufacturing facility in KSA which we are on target to open in 2022.

Our expertise and credibility enables us to deliver industry leading food safety standards and we are accredited to the highest possible standards. Our facilities encompass multiple interchangeable high and low care lines. We produce quality products in a variety of formats, these are driven by customer requirements.

We are looking for a talented and motivated Development Cakes and Desserts (Pastry) Food Development Manager, with experience in the food manufacturing industry, who will enhance and develop existing and future menu and product lines of Alshaya Food Division’s various brands and external customer’s base.

The Role:

You will enhance and develop existing and future menu and product lines for the Food Division’s various brands and external customer base. You will combine innovation, creative ideas and exceptional kitchen capabilities in developing cakes and desserts products with commercial understanding of what will be profitable to the business and the customer / end customer.

Key responsibilities include:

• Designing and developing new products and processes in accordance with the Food Division’s demands
• Optimising production by analysing processes and identifying process conditions
• Designing, installing and commissioning a new production plant
• Undertaking small and intermediate-scale manufacturing and packaging activities
• Ensuring that operator, environment, process and product safety aspects are considered
• Actively participating in strategic product and process planning by continuously scanning the external environment for new technologies
• Writing recipes and procedures for new products, or reformulating current products
• Controlling / auditing the Production centers to ensure that the production processes are followed
• Searching / evaluating new ingredients in order to improve the cost and or quality of products
• Managing multiple projects within established timelines.

Qualifications & Requirements:

You will have/be:

• Minimum 8 years’ experience in a similar role
• Strong background in developing Pastry, Cakes & Desserts
• Strong Food Manufacturing background is a must
• Knowledge of food safety and food quality requirements in a central production facility
• Planning and project management experience
• Influencing and negotiation skills

About Us:

Alshaya Group is a dynamic family-owned enterprise, first established in Kuwait in 1890. With a consistent record of growth and innovation, Alshaya Group is one of the world’s leading brand franchise operators, offering an unparalleled choice of well-loved international brands to customers.

Alshaya Group’s portfolio extends across MENA, Russia, Turkey and Europe, with thousands of stores, cafes, restaurants and leisure destinations, as well as a growing online and digital business.

Operating in multiple sectors including Fashion, Food, Health & Beauty, Pharmacy, Home Furnishings and Leisure & Entertainment, Alshaya Group colleagues are united by a commitment to authentically deliver great customer service and brand experiences.

Fresh, modern and relevant, Alshaya’s constantly evolving portfolio reflects the choices and lifestyle of its customers. From flagship stores and restaurants in prestige malls, through to local coffee shops, drive-thrus and online, Alshaya Group brings customers the brands they love in the places they want to be. Brands such as Starbucks, H&M, Mothercare, Debenhams, American Eagle Outfitters, P.F. Chang’s, The Cheesecake Factory, The Body Shop, M.A.C, Victoria’s Secret, Boots, Pottery Barn and KidZania.

• Advertised: 29 Apr 2021 Arabian Standard Time
• Application close: 28 May 2021 Arabian Standard Time

To Apply:

Click here to learn more and submit an application.

---

To search this job and thousands more, create your free Worldchefs online account!

---

Want to post a job with Worldchefs? Get in touch!

---

Chefs’ As Agents of Change: Why chefs must mobilise together to collectively change global food systems

Original post: https://sdg2advocacyhub.org/chefs-manifesto/chefsagents

The UN Food Systems Summit (UNFSS) will be convened by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in September 2021. The purpose is to shape global commitments and to raise global awareness of food systems, that they might be transformed in order to reduce diet-related diseases, resolve hunger, and restore planetary health. The Secretary-General is calling all citizens to collective action, so as to “radically change the way we produce, process, transport, market and consume food”. 

As agents of change, and to drive action, chefs need to come together in one collective, connected voice. The Chefs’ Manifesto network is taking a leading role to further focus and narrow the SDG roadmap for chefs, as well as bridging and connecting across chef networks. This has been  motivated by the upcoming UN Food Systems Summit, and the urgent need to generate actions to be able to achieve the SDGs by 2030.

Through conducting a survey, the aim is to learn from participants, what the top priorities are for 2021 and the Decade of Action, the results of which will inform the creation of a Chefs’ Pledge. This Pledge will be a commitment to key practical priorities that can have the greatest impact to enact change.

It will aim to create collective momentum to rally greater attention and engagement of chef food systems champions, mobilising them even further as agents of change, at key global events, and especially at the upcoming UN Food Systems Summit.Complete the Chefs’ Pledge Survey here!

The Chefs’ Manifesto interviewed several key chef network partners, to gain further insight into food systems challenges and how chefs can play a role as agents of change. Their responses are documented below.

What do you see as the greatest threat to global food systems?

Elaine McCarthy – The biggest threat is lack of action. Communication and education are essential to creating a  food system which serves all people with integrity. There are many threats against the food system. A holistic approach must be taken to ensure food is grown in healthy soils and oceans, food processing systems which produce highly nutritional ingredients, fair treatment and pay to farmers and people within the system, access to seeds, respect to the climate and natural ecosystems, global food distribution to name a few.

Nicola Gryczka – Our consumer behaviours and choices are the biggest threat: wasting food, not understanding where our food comes from and what is behind it, as well as not understanding the impact our choices have on our own body, society and the planet.

Chef Ann Cooper – I’m not sure there is one “greatest” threat, but more so many grave ones. Some of the ones that I think are the most concerning are; hunger, climate change, poverty, lack of education for girls in poverty stricken countries, population rise, food waste, ocean pollution and overfishing and soil degradation.

Jian Yi – We regard overconsumption of animal protein in many parts of the world and widespread factory farming as the greatest threat to global food system. Concurrent with this trend is societies’ general inability to act for change as a result of focus on short-term interest both from the consumer end and from the business side.

Ragnar Fridriksson – Intensive agriculture, overuse of antibiotics or fertilisers has taken us into a vicious circle that is polluting our planet and will take decades to mend. As long as basic necessities such as food is traded as a commodity on speculative markets this vicious circle will continue to accelerate. Healthy, sufficient nutrition should be a human right and traded fairly.

Anne Le More – Global food systems both contribute to and are vulnerable to a series of interlinked threats. Climate change, demographic pressures, social inequality and of course pandemics, all force us to rethink our approach to the global production, distribution, and consumption of food. Addressing these threats by moving towards a new food paradigm is a core objective of Chefs 4 The Planet.

The Chefs’ Manifesto encourage chefs to be agents of change: how have you seen chefs in your network seek to change behaviours, attitudes or systems?

Elaine – Our network includes chefs across the industry, those within the restaurant and service industry, current chefs in training, alumni of Le Cordon Bleu and teaching chefs who have been within the food industry for a long time. Over the past 10 years in particular chefs have taken responsibility and gained a deeper understanding of the impact of their decisions, purchasing power and menu planning. Chefs have become innovative and creative in developing new food concepts and business ideas which have positive impact. Young chefs entering the food industry are excited and outspoken on sustainable matters.

Nicola – So many amazing chefs and cooks in our network have stepped it up over the years, from zero water initiatives to job training for those that are being left behind by our current systems, school meal programs for kids. There are other chefs that have dedicated their lives to prisoner reintegration or working with migrants. I would encourage anyone that wants to get inspired to check out our network map.

Chef Ann – School food chefs and culinary professionals have worked hard to replace highly processed food with scratch cooked meals made from whole ingredients. We’ve seen amazing strides in working with local farmers, farm to school programs, school gardens, salad bars and education/marketing campaigns. These initiatives  ensure that students, faculty, staff, administration and families understand the symbiotic relationship between our health and that of the planet.

Jian – Chefs are connectors between consumers and producers, and can be messengers and lifestyle coaches and mentors once equipped with the vision for and skills to build a better food system. This is still a fledgeling movement in China but we have seen chefs constantly looking for learning more about the food system, about the Good Food Pledge, about the Chefs’ Manifesto and how best they can play a leadership role in the future.

Ragnar – Ask – Act – Share: Ask – By making sure they are informed and asking the right questions from their purveyors, such as where does the product come from and how was it produced ?   Act – Privileging the most sustainable ingredients in their menus with attention to water, energy and waste in their kitchens.  Share –  Informing and educating their customers about the same.

Anne – Chefs are on the front lines, combining innovation and traditional know-how to emphasise sustainable gastronomy into their menus. These menus, in turn, influence the public’s daily food practices and choices: when restaurateurs emphasise nutrition and biodiversity in their plates, this has positive knock-on effects across the agri-food spectrum.

What role do you believe chefs can play in global food systems transformation?

Elaine – Chefs are vital – they communicate through their menus, how they train their teams in the kitchen, communication on websites, interviews to their customers, every choice a chef makes in choosing ingredients has an impact on the food system.

Nicola – Chefs and cooks have become role models for our food choices and the way we look at food. So for me they play a crucial role of leading by example with their food choices and behaviours when it comes to food. They become spokespeople of the entire value chain.

Chef Ann – Chefs are the protectors and arbiters of the global food system. We’re seen as the experts and hence it is our responsibility to not only protect and enhance a healthy food system but educate and inspire. We work with customers, colleagues, families and elected officials to promote and support our planet and the healthy food system that only exists when we make it our priority.

Jian – We envision chefs playing a central role in transforming the global food systems – they can support practices in food productions and help shape healthy and sustainable consumption.

Ragnar – Chefs are at the centre of the global food system value chain. As expert buyers they can influence producers with their demands and choices. Also as influencers they can educate consumers and incite and help them to make informed choices.

Anne – Chefs play a critical role in transforming global food systems: as direct actors in the production of food, and as educators and influencers. As communicators and educators beyond the restaurant table, chefs also play an increasingly critical role in shaping public opinion: this is why Chefs4ThePlanet leverages their influence to serve as ambassadors of sustainability.

If you could encourage chefs to take one action to promote Good Food for All, what would it be and why?

Elaine – Certainly it would be to be creative and innovative when it comes to menu design to avoid food waste, utilising the whole ingredient.

Nicola – Make your kitchens classrooms! Teach the next generation on how to lead by example making the kitchens of the future more just, inclusive and sustainable workplaces and teach your clients around their choices and how all our behaviours matter.

Chef Ann – I can’t imagine only one action. Our planet and the food system is in crisis and we can’t afford the luxury of only taking one action at a time. My answer is aligned with overcoming the threats I mentioned above; alleviating hunger, poverty, food waste, soil degradation, overfishing as well as elevating girl’s education, contraception and climate change to be major priorities for the global community.

Jian – Please make best use of your amazing culinary talents to encourage people to eat more healthy, diversified and sustainably produced plant-based foods.

Ragnar – Our era is marked with the crises of abundance. Never before has the world produced as much food, but unfortunately 30% of the worlds production goes to waste. Food waste is one of the key areas and an imperative one to mend our broken food system. Stop Waste.

Anne – Commit to sustainability in their daily practice – ideally on all aspects but with some flexibility according to where the chef is located, the type of food he cooks, his/her customers – but the key is to COMMIT and to ACT – whether on responsible sourcing, more plant-based, animal welfare, or energy of resources.

---

To read the original article, visit sdg2advocacyhub.org/chefs-manifesto/chefsagents.

To take action on sustainability, explore our Feed the Planet programs at www.feedtheplanet.worldchefs.org.

Visit here for more information about how to join the Chefs’ Manifesto network.

---

The Worldchefs community around the globe mourns the death of Paul Moore, Worldchefs Honorary Life Member, a long-serving member of the Australian Culinary Federation, and Life Member of ACF Victoria. He passed away on the morning of 26 April 2021, surrounded by family.

Chef Paul was President of the AGPC from 2000 to 2002, when it became ACF. He also continued to serve as the webmaster until only a couple of years ago. The unofficial ACF photographer, Paul always had a camera in hand at the many events he attended with enthusiasm and support.

A mentor to countless chefs, Paul is remembered for his openness and words of wisdom. Former ACF President Glenn Austin referred to him as “Father,” as he was to many of the ACF family. He will be deeply missed.

We wish our sincere condolences to his family and friends around the world.

 

---

Introducing the Worldchefs Academy and Its Advisors

Amro Al Yassin, Worldchefs Academy Arabic Advisor, VP of Emirates Culinary Guild (Dubai) and General Secretary of the Syrian Culinary Guild, and Jihan Sahawneh, Worldchefs Academy Arabic Advisor and Culinary Facilitator at the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (Jordan), explain how Worldchefs Academy is helping young talents in their culinary journeys.

The Worldchefs Academy online portal and mobile app was established in 2018. How did the idea come about?
Worldchefs Academy was created to give aspiring chefs the chance to learn the basics in culinary arts — no matter their background or skills set — and to help culinary professionals review the basics and keep up to date with international standards. Offering interactive lessons and training videos, the free-of-charge Pre-Commis Chef Course is a great way to prepare for life in a professional kitchen. Participants can learn through the web-based platform or via the mobile app. Soon, they will even be able to download the courses and study at their own convenience.
Since 2018, 20,000 students have enrolled, and 5,000 students have graduated from the academy.

What does the curriculum cover?
The Pre-Commis Chef Course can be followed as a complete curriculum, while individual lessons compliment other existing courses or provide theoretical components to culinary apprenticeships. Participants must put their knowledge to the test as they progress through the courses. Once they pass the final assessment, they receive a Worldchefs Academy certificate and a digital badge that shows potential employers that they are ready for the job.

How is this program linked to the Worldchefs Certification?
Worldchefs Academy graduates are equipped with a Pre-Commis Chef certificate and a digital badge – an important prerequisite for anyone looking to apply for employment in a professional kitchen. Graduates with three years’ work experience under a supervising professional chef can apply for Worldchefs Global Culinary Certification as a Worldchefs Certified Professional Cook (Commis Chef). The Pre-Commis Chef Course helps aspiring chefs take their first steps toward a culinary career. Worldchefs is also launching Approved Courses, with training and learning programs provided by world-renowned institutions. Culinary professionals can find the best courses in hospitality to suit their ambitions and boost their careers.

What more can you tell us?
Adding to the lineup of free courses available for our global community, the Arabic Pre-Commis Chef Course has recently been added to the English, Spanish and Portuguese library. With the help of our partners, Nestlé Professional and Pro Gastronomia Foundation, and our language advisors and chef volunteers, Worldchefs Academy is also developing the Pre-Commis Chef Course in Italian, German and Mandarin, which is set to launch in 2021.
The Worldchefs Academy mobile app can be downloaded from the App Store, Google Play and our website.

To learn more, visit worldchefsacademy.com.

---

This article was originally published in Hospitality News Magazine. To read the article there, click here.

An independent Swiss family company, HUG has grown by these values – sincere, entrepreneurial and conscientious. Joining Worldchefs as a Premium Partner in March 2018, during their tenure as a Worldchefs partner HUG has supported our trade and industry progress with passion and commitment.

The history of HUG started over 140 years ago at a bakery in Lucerne. In 1877, Master baker Josef Hug-Meyer laid the foundation stone for success with the invention of the iconic Swiss bread – zwieback. Creating an essentially zero-waste recipe long before it was a trending topic, Josef cut unsold bread into slices and toasted them overnight in the hot oven. The twice-baked bread became zwieback, meaning twice-baked.

Four family generations later, HUG is led by Co-Directors Andreas and Anna Hug. The 5^th generation, too, is already shaping the future with Andreas’ son Fabian Hug joining the company in 2016. Through their hard work and dedication and that of their forefathers, the HUG Familie brands are synonymous with quality.

HUG’s product innovation has also continued through the years. Today, HUG is probably the world’s #1 manufacturer of ready-to-fill tart shells with the latest addition coming to their Filigrano Tartelettes line-up: Coffee Tartelettes. The Coffee Tartelettes exceptionally intense coffee aroma is owed to dark roasting 70 % arabica and 30 % robusta beans, with coffee beans nibs in the fine shortcrust pastry freshly roasted and gently ground. The coffee is thoughtfully sourced from fair and sustainable purveyors in Brazil, Honduras and Ethiopia.

For so many in our industry, 2020 brought unexpected challenges to navigate. Amid the COVID-19 crisis, HUG continued to forge ahead with their commitments to reducing the company’s ecological footprint, despite the turbulent year.

A new production site at their headquarters in Malters is helping to build a more resource-efficient infrastructure for production and logistics. The energy supply system utilizes groundwater as the main source of energy, as well as internally generated waste heat to supply heating and cooling for buildings and production processes. With these new investments in technology and offset energy, the Malters site operations will be entirely CO2-neutral. In addition, climate-neutral packaging is now being used.

Mindful that their ecological footprint is also dependent on the raw materials used, HUG is committed to Swissness, sourcing most of the raw materials from Swiss agriculture. HUG’s products are made with with free-range eggs and nuts, cocoa and palm oil from certified sustainable sources.

“Over the past years, HUG has been a great supporter of the Worldchefs community. We so value their strong guiding principles and sincere interest in delivering quality, creativity, innovation and convenience to culinary professionals. We are proud to continue our close collaboration into the future,” said Ragnar Fridriksson, Worldchefs Managing Director.

For more on HUG’s natural and smart products for the professional kitchens of the world, visit www.hug-foodservice.ch.

For inspiration and recipes, visit HUG’s recipe database. You can now find a filter function exclusively for pastry shops and bakeries to help deliver the best products to your sales counter.

About the HUG family

The HUG Familie consists of three brands, HUG, Wernli and DAR-VIDA, and employs around 380 people in Malters, Willisau and Trimbach. Established as a bakery in Lucerne in 1877, HUG still remains a family business to this day and it is now run by the fifth generation. Andreas Hug and Anna Hug manage the company according to three main principles which are characteristic of HUG: humanity, entrepreneurship and responsibility. With its three well-established brands, the company offers a wide range of products, from typical HUG Swiss biscuits such as the Willisauer Ringli to Wernli specialities such as the Choco Petit Beurre to a large selection of DAR-VIDA crackers. All three brands share core values: pleasure, naturalness and authenticity. In addition to retail products, HUG offers an extensive range of high-quality baked goods such as HUG tartlets for the catering industry.

About Worldchefs

The World Association of Chefs’ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a dynamic global network of 110 chef associations worldwide. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries 91 years of history since its founding at the Sorbonne by the venerable Auguste Escoffier. Representing a mobilized international membership of culinary professionals, Worldchefs is committed to advancing the profession and leveraging the influence of the chef jacket for the betterment of the industry and humanity at large.

Worldchefs is dedicated to raising culinary standards and social awareness through these core focus areas:

Education – Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the landmark Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculums, and the world’s first Global Hospitality Certification recognizing on-the-job skills in hospitality; 

Networking – Worldchefs connects culinary professionals around the world through their online community platform and provides a gateway for industry networking opportunities through endorsed events and the biennial Worldchefs Congress & Expo;

Competition – Worldchefs sets global standards for competition rules, provides Competition Seminars and assurance of Worldchefs Certified Judges, and operates the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge;

Humanitarianism & Sustainability – Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.

For more information about Worldchefs, visit us at www.worldchefs.org.

---

Plant-based cuisine, from marketing to meals.

Pro-Veg International’s new brochure Plan(t)s for Professionals provides background information and practical tips to meet the rising demand for plant-based offerings in the foodservice sector.

Would you like to impress your customers with tasty, healthy, and environmentally friendly menus? As the world population re-evaluates their dietary choices and moves towards more plant-based foods, foodservice professionals worldwide are embracing and supporting this shift. Plan(t)s for Professionals examines the drivers behind this ongoing global trend and provides useful information on adding more plant-based options to your menu.

The brochure gives a product overview of plant-based alternatives, as well as hands-on information for creating recipes – so you can discover new flavour profiles or simply adjust your favorite menu items. Plus, learn how to increase your sales and customer satisfaction by implementing effective marketing campaigns, using nudging methods, and training your staff in plant-based catering.

There are numerous benefits of plant-based diets in terms of their impact on the climate, the environment, and public health. By integrating more vegan or vegetarian options into your menu line, you can not only reduce your company’s CO2 footprint, but also serve delicious, creative, and health-promoting meals to more customers, all while saving money. By applying the tips provided in Plan(t)s for Professionals, you will be ready to design or adapt a diverse, healthy, and sustainable menu that satisfies the demand for more plant-based options and promotes increased quality of life.

“Modern, healthy, and close to nature: plant-based cuisine offers an enormous diversity of options for the foodservice sector to take advantage of. Additionally, meeting the growing global demand for more plant-based options also caters to varying dietary and cultural requirements.”

Katleen Haefele,
International Head of ProVeg Food Services & Events

See more from ProVeg International and download the brochure here.

---