As climate change and resource depletion continue to challenge the world, the role of culinary professionals in driving sustainable change is more crucial than ever. Worldchefs’ Feed the Planet initiatives are making an impact globally, with our Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals program greatly contributing to this success. Through both online training and in-person workshops, weโre equipping chefs with the tools they need to create lasting impact. To date, over 14,200 culinary professionals have completed the free 8-module curriculum.
Sustainability Education in Africa
Recently, Worldchefs Certified Trainer Chef Aldina (Din) Plaza Jimenez from the Philippines, empowered chefs in Africa as she guided them through the Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals curriculum. In collaboration with the Chef Mentors Embassy, Chef Dinโs sessions were designed to inspire these chefsโspecifically from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Uganda, and Botswanaโto embrace sustainable culinary practices. The course ran from February 22, 2025, to March 15, 2025, and was attended by 30 passionate culinary professionals eager to make a positive impact.
The training focused on a variety of essential sustainability topics, from responsible sourcing and waste reduction to eco-friendly kitchen operations. Chef Din shared her expertise and enthusiasm across every aspect of the curriculum. The chefs not only gained strategies for implementing sustainability in their kitchens but also experienced a shift in their mindset. The hands-on approach, which included real-world case studies and practical demonstrations, was particularly impactful.
“The sessions have been truly enlightening, equipping us with invaluable knowledge and practical strategies to integrate sustainability into our culinary practices… As we reflect on this transformative learning experience, we are confident that the insights gained will significantly influence our culinary decisions moving forward.”
– Chef Nathan Joseph, Head of Administration at Chef Mentors Embassy
The impact of this training extends beyond just the participants. Through these collaborations, Chef Din observed a growing awareness of sustainability within the African culinary community.
“Chefs and culinary professionals are increasingly embracing sustainable practices, becoming powerful advocates for change. My journey has shown me that sustainability knows no borders. By sharing knowledge, embracing cultural diversity, and working hand-in-hand with communities across Africa, we can cultivate a future where both people and the planet thrive. It’s a collective effort, a shared table where we all have a role to play in nourishing a more sustainable world.”
– Chef Din Plaza Jimenez, Worldchefs Certified Sustainability Education Trainer
A Movement Shaping Our Industry’s Future
Worldchefs’ Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals is not solely about reducing waste or sourcing locally – it’s about cultivating a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between food and the environment. It’s about inspiring culinary professionals to lead by example and inspire others in their communities to follow suit. It’s a movement that encourages a shift in how we think about food, cooking, and sustainability.
As Chef Mentors Embassyโs mission emphasizes, mentorship and collaboration are essential to shaping the future of the culinary industry. Through platforms like Feed the Planet, Worldchefs is fostering a global network of culinary professionals dedicated to advancing sustainability.
Thank you to Chef Din Plaza Jimenez and our many dedicated trainers for continuously inspiring our community and driving change.
Take Action
Start Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals course for free at www.worldchefsacademy.com. Once completed, you’ll receive a digital badge to show your achievement.
Download the Worldchefs Academy Mobile App on both the App Store and Google Play at www.worldchefsacademy.com.
Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals is made possible with the support of Feed the Planet partners and the contributions of Worldchefs’ members around the globe. Worldchefs extends the utmost gratitude to all course participants, program trainers, and educational institutions who bring their time, expertise, and vision to all Feed the Planet initiatives.
In recent years,โฏreusable cups have become increasingly popular for their positive environmental impact. Opting for a reusable cup over disposable alternatives can effectively diminish the volume of waste generated by single-use items. However, the question arises:โฏcan a business adequately clean them to ensure they are thoroughly sanitized for the next customer and to extend their lifespan? This article will delve into this matter.ย
Why Choose Reusable Cups?ย
Beyond the waste reduction factor,โฏopting for reusable cups made from sustainable materials like glass, stainless steel, or BPA free plastic offers a safer and healthier option for your beverages. Additionally, they excel inโฏmaintaining your drinks at the desired temperatureโฏfor an extended period, making them a practical choice for on-the-go use. Given theirโฏeco-friendly advantagesโฏand practicality, itโs no surprise that reusable cups have gained popularity among environmentally conscious individuals and business owners.ย
Whatโs the Optimal Method for Cleaning Reusable Cups?
Ensuring the cleanliness and functionality of your reusable cup is crucial. Following the manufacturerโs guidelines for proper cleaning is essential, as some cup components may be suitable for dishwasher use, while others may require handwashing.
Numerous cups, particularly those made of glass, stainless steel, or ceramic, are dishwasher safe. Itโs imperative toโฏfollow the product specificationsโฏto prevent potential damage and extend the productโs lifespan. Additionally, being mindful of the recommended detergent is essential to achieve optimal washing results.
How Often Can I Clean Reusable Cups?ย
Reusable cups are engineered to endure numerous uses and washes. Nevertheless, the longevity of a reusable cup is contingent on factors like the material itโs constructed from and the level of care it receives. Glass and stainless-steel cups, known for their durability, can persist for many years, whereas plastic cups may have a shorter lifespan.โฏRegularly examining your cup for indications of wear or damage is crucial. If you observe cracks, leaks, or a deteriorating seal, itโs advisable to replace your cup to guarantee safe and hygienic use.
How to Dry Reusable Cupsย
Effectively drying your reusable cup is essential to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.โฏElectrolux Professionalโs innovative HeroDry, a stand-alone drying solution, enables your business to achieve impeccable drying outcomes through a combination of a blower, a wired rack, a constant drying temperature of 50 ยฐC (or 122 ยฐF), and an optimized airflow system.โฏHeroDry is versatile in terms of space and capacity, allowing you to stack reusable cups in various configurations for proper drying results.ย
Its generous 535*400mm opening accommodates standard 500*500mm baskets for reusable dishware. The appliance boasts low operating costs and no downtime, featuring EcoCycleโa energy-saving mechanism that blends fresh air with the hot returning flowโand Rewarming functions.With its multifunctionality and user-friendly operation,โฏElectrolux Professionalโs drying solution proves to be an excellent choiceโฏin helping your business achieve sustainability goals related to disposable cups and overall waste reduction.ย
Celebrating a year of achievements, the magazine highlights the accomplishments of Electrolux Food Foundation and its collaboration with Worldchefs through Feed the Planet. From educating kids on sustainable food habits to empowering communities through culinary training, the edition underlines how 2024 was a year of strong social impact.
Read some of the year’s highlights from Cosimo Scarano, Head of Electrolux Food Foundation:
๐ก Food Heroes workshopsโincluding Cook School partnership’s lessonsโinspired over 81,000 children on sustainable eating, a 71% increase vs. last year. Thanks to the dedication of Electrolux Group employees and Worldchefs members, volunteers stepped up to deliver engaging workshops across 180 sessions, dedicating 2,700+ hours to educating kids worldwide.
๐ Electrolux’s biggest volunteering initiative to date: More than 400 employee volunteers in 30 countries joined forces for World Food Day, educating kids worldwide on sustainable eating.
๐จโ๐ณ Like a Chef, an initiative co-developed by Electrolux Food Foundation and Worldchefs, expanded to Buenos Aires, Argentina, equipping 300+ people globally with professional culinary skills focused on sustainabilityโa 31% growth vs. 2023.
๐ Sustainability Education Curriculum trained almost 3,000 professional chefsโa 63% increase vs. last yearโwith a new Arabic version expanding access via the Worldchefs Academy app and a Spanish version to be finalized soon.
These achievements for 2024 are yet another testament to the power of collaboration. Worldchefs would like to thank our Feed the Planet partners Electrolux Food Foundation and AIESEC for their profound commitment and dedication to empowering people around the world with culinary education and sustainability initiatives.
To learn more about sustainable eating, visit www.replate.com.
March 27, 2025 โ It is with profound sadness that we say goodbye to one of our longest-serving Presidents, Eddy Fernรกndez,ย of the Culinary Federation of Cuba. With over 40 years dedicated to Cuban cuisine, Chef Fernรกndez was an iconic figure whose legacy transcends borders.
Chef Eddy’s journey was fueled by his deep passion for the industry, leading to him becoming a respected leader in the Cuban culinary community. He was instrumental in the creation of the Artechef Project, a vital initiative that aimed to preserve and promote Cuban cuisine. His unwavering commitment led to the recognition of Cuban Creole cuisine as a cultural heritage of the nation by the National Heritage Council, marking a gastronomic milestone for the country.
Internationally, Chef Fernรกndez was recognized for his contributions, becoming a member of the French Academy of Culinary Arts and serving as Vice President for the Caribbean of AREGALA. He was a tireless advocate for Cuban gastronomy and his voice resonated with global platforms like through Worldchefs, where he proudly represented Cuba’s place on the culinary map and elevated Cuban culinary traditions worldwide.
Eddy served as a member of Worldchefs Heritage committee for several years, and in 2020, he was awarded Worldchefs’ Life Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to the culinary industry.
Throughout his career, Eddy was known for his humility and dedication, earning the respect of peers and colleagues. He was a mentor, teacher, and innovator, deeply rooted in Cuban culture and its rich culinary identity. His passing is a tremendous loss, not just to Cuban cuisine but to the global culinary community.
Chef Fernรกndezโs contributions will forever be remembered, and his legacy will continue through the projects he established and the chefs he mentored. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, his wife Ms. Idania Garcia, his colleagues, and all who were touched by his life and work.
True to his modest character, Chef Fernรกndez did not want any tributes or ceremonies. The Culinary Federation of Cuba has thus highlighted his legacy and called to continue his work. The statement issued by the federation emphasizes the need to preserve his projects, such as the Artechef Publishing House, and to continue promoting Cuban Creole cuisine, to which he dedicated his life.
You leave us shattered, but your devotion to the kitchen won’t let us stop.
May your life and your work of a good man always live among us.
Last month, the Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge European Semi-Finals united over 50 skilled chefs from Europe for three exciting days of competition. Teams competed across four competition categories for the chance to secure their spot at the Global Chefs Challenge Finals in Wales 2026.
Relive the Global Chefs Challenge Europe Semi-Finals
Ready to relive the action? View the photos and watch the videos by clicking on the images below.
World on a Plate: The Making of a Top Chef with Giuseppe De Vincenzo
In our newest podcast episode, meet the winner of the European Grand Prix 2025: Chef Giuseppe De Vincenzo. Learn practical advice for competitions and discover what Giuseppe prepared during the event.
Finally, we’d like to give a special thank you to the sponsors of this event, whose support was essential in making the competition a success! We are proud to work alongside these partners and look forward to continued global collaborations.
Global Chefs Challenge Finals at Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2026
Worldchefs Congress & Expo is a hallmark tradition of Worldchefs, and has been organized in cities around the world throughout its illustrious 96-year history. The forum brings together delegates from across the five continents to network and expand their professional bonds. The unique program delivers presentations and workshops from leading experts in the hospitality industry, impactful educational programs including the Worldchefs Educatorsโ Forum, specialized events designed to uplift the next generation of chefs such as the Bill Gallagher Young Chefs Forum, an international trade exhibition, the Global Chefs Challenge competition, and diverse activities to enhance both personal and professional networks.
The 2026 Worldchefs Congress & Expo and Global Chefs Challenge Finals will be held in Wales, hosted by the Culinary Association of Wales.
From 23 to 27 January 2025, Worldchefs Village made its first appearance at Sirha Lyon, a world reference event for food service and hospitality in Lyon, France.
This January, Worldchefs Village made its first appearance at SIRHA Lyon, the world reference event for food service and hospitality. Welcoming 257,363 attendees, the five-day trade show ran alongside the Pastry World Cup and Bocuse d’Or 2025, making it an opportunity for significant visibility for both Worldchefs and the partners who joined Worldchefs Village.
Thank you to our members and partners for joining us: Kentaur Workwear, Alto-Shaam, HUG Food Service, Uzbekistan Travel & Tourism, and Worldchefs Tunisia (Maรฎtres des Saveurs et Gastronomes de Tunisie). Our booth with a truly global display of culinary excellence, cultures, conversations and connections.
From Our Exhibitors
“Sirha Lyon is one of the greatest shows for chefs and we got the best out of it. It’s a great family and a great ambiance at Worldchefs Village. There was a wide range of visitors – at our booth we had professionals, chefs, schools, restaurant owners and chain owners. It has been our first Worldchefs Village experience and we loved it. The types of contacts we had… it was unbelievable.”
Francesca La Chiusa, Europe Sales Director at Alto-Shaam
“The five-day experience at Sirha Lyon was excellent. We got a lot of contacts, met a lot of customers, new customers, potential customers- it was a very good exchange with all people we met at the booth. It was a nice collaboration with all the staff of Worldchefs and good synergy for both. There were very different people and customers at Sirha. For us, it was a good opportunity to meet our distributors all over the world, and also some very famous chefs from different countries, but also the main focus was final customers from France – traiteurs, restaurants, chefs, hotels – very different types of customer channels.”
Frรฉdรฉric Cherpin, Key Account Sales Manager Exportat HUG Food Service
“I’m very happy to be here this year it’s my first time participating in the Worldchefs Village. I exchanged a lot about our product Tunisian Couscous Express Warda 4 minutes and I got to experience international products – Norway, Uzbekistan, French, Italian, Switzerland – it’s a great team at Worldchefs Village Sirha Lyon 2025.”
Latifah Khairi, Worldchefs Tunisia
Click here to discover the experience at Sirha Lyon 2025.
Why exhibit with us at Worldchefs Village?
Get Access: Reach a targeted audience of chefs, hospitality professionals, educators, and food service leaders around the world.
Gain Exposure: Showcase your products, association or institution with your designated space and the opportunity to host live demonstrations and tastings.
Get Recognized: Gain an exclusive opportunity to be seen as a Worldchefs Trusted Brand on an international platform alongside key industry players.
Enjoy this Turnkey Solution: Take a back seat on logistics! Worldchefs handles the planning and animation of your booth space. Our features often include:
Spacious pavilion (40-500sqm) to meet with potential customers, host live demonstrations, etc.
Dedicated brandable area for co-exhibitors
Prime access to Worldchefs community and partners
Customized communications opportunities on Worldchefsโ official channels
“Worldchefs Village is a great way for us to engage with chefs and professionals from different countries, and connect them with our partners and associations. Each time we finish a Worldchefs Village event, we have new contacts and conversations that make the experience very worthwhile. For our first time with a booth at Sirha Lyon, it was certainly a success.”
Ragnar Fridriksson, Worldchefs Managing Director
Upcoming Events:
Ready to secure your spot and join us at an upcoming Worldchefs Village? Here are the upcoming dates:
ScanBox and the World Association of Chefsโ Societies (Worldchefs) have renewed their global partnership, strengthening their commitment to equipping culinary professionals with innovative food transport, heating and cooling solutions.
ScanBox, the market leader in food holding equipment, continues as a Global Partner of Worldchefs, supporting professional chefs with cutting-edge food transport and holding solutions.
ScanBox continues as an Official Partner of the Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge Final, enhancing competition conditions with state-of-the-art food holding technology.
ScanBox is confirmed as an Official Partner of the Worldchefs Congress in Wales 2026 and Paris 2028.
Paris, 5 March 2025 โ Worldchefs (The World Association of Chefs’ Societies) has announced a renewed partnership with ScanBox, a market leader in sustainable food logistics solutions. The continued collaboration is based on a mutual commitment providing chefs worldwide with more efficient food logistics, improved working conditions, and the tools they need to deliver remarkable dining experiences.
ScanBox has 30 years of experience in developing insulated food transport and holding equipment with a focus on ergonomics, safety and ease of operation for customer satisfaction. All products are developed and built in their factory in Olofstrรถm, Sweden. In 2024, ScanBox was recognized as one of Swedenโs fastest-growing companies, earning the DI Gasell Award from Dagens Industri.
Operating worldwide, their unique food holding and transportation carts are used by thousands of chefs around the globe and across a range of industries. With more than 1,300 customers and a presence in over 60 markets, ScanBox delivers reliable food logistic solutions to professional kitchens worldwide.
Food service simplified
ScanBox simplifies food logistics in professional kitchens with the market’s widest range of food transport trolleys for cold and hot holding. ScanBox products provide the flexibility to combine exactly the functions culinary professionals need, all in one box. Innovative design and construction provide numerous advantages compared to traditional cooling and heating boxes, with logistical challenges in mind to ensure stability and ease in demanding work environments.
ScanBoxโs new product selector helps foodservice professionals find the solution for their unique needs, whether it’s for keeping food warm, cold, or neutrally stored.
Enhancing Culinary Competitions with ScanBox Solutions
As an Official Partner of Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge, ScanBox will continue to provide high-performance insulated food transport carts, ensuring that top culinary competitors have the best tools to optimize their performance. The Global Chefs Challenge brings together top chefs representing countries from around the world , and ScanBoxโs innovative solutions will contribute to the highest standards for competition conditions.
โWe are delighted to extend our partnership with ScanBox. Scanbox has now been with us many years and their devotion to our competitions is a great partnership between our association and their company,โ says Andy Cuthbert, President of Worldchefs. โWith ScanBoxโs expertise, our chefs will have access to the best food holding solutions, enabling them to perform at their highest level.”
Strengthening Presence at Worldchefs Congress
ScanBox will also continue as an Official Partner of the Worldchefs Congress in Wales 2026 and Paris 2028, showcasing its latest advancements in food holding technology. The biennial Worldchefs Congress & Expo brings together industry leaders, chefs, and innovators, fostering knowledge-sharing and collaboration across the global culinary community.
โOur renewed partnership with Worldchefs is an exciting opportunity for ScanBox,โ says Johan Olsson, Global Sales Director at ScanBox. โWe are proud to support professional chefs by providing smart, efficient, and ergonomic food holding solutions. Being part of Worldchefsโ events allows us to engage with the global culinary community and continue developing innovations tailored to their needs.โ
Bringing Your Food with Care
At ScanBox, sustainability is an integrated part of business. ScanBox products and solutions are designed to support more sustainable food logistics by creating efficient and optimized workflows that reduce food waste and energy consumption.
In the global commercial kitchen industry, where working conditions are often demanding and stressful, ScanBox food logistics solutions contribute to improved working conditions. By creating more balanced and efficient workflows, they hope to support both social and economic sustainability in the industry.
The continued partnership between ScanBox and Worldchefs reaffirms a shared dedication to equipping culinary professionals with the tools they need to excel. As ScanBox continues to set new standards for food holding technology, Worldchefs remains committed to fostering excellence, sustainability, and innovation within the industry.
About ScanBox
ScanBox offers food transport, heating & cooling solutions that are utilized in kitchens worldwide and across a wide range of industries. ScanBox food transportation boxes ensure the food will retain its quality from preparation through transport to final service.
ScanBox offers the market’s widest range of food transport trolleys for cold and hot holding, with the flexibility to easily combine different functions in one box.
Contributing to reduce food waste and optimize energy consumption
At ScanBox, sustainability is a natural and integrated part of the business. Their products and solutions are designed to support sustainable food logistics by creating efficient and optimized workflows that reduce food waste and energy consumption.
30 years experience
ScanBox was established in 1992 and has since grown to a global business with more than 1,300 customers and a presence in over 60 markets.
Focus on growth
ScanBox has experienced steady growth, selling over 100,000 units since its inception and was named a Swedish Gasell company in 2024.
The World Association of Chefsโ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a federation made up of 110 national chef associations. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries years of history since its founding in 1928 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 โ Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the landmark Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculum, and the worldโs first Global Culinary Certification recognizing on-the-job skillsin hospitality;
Networking โ 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 โ 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 โ Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.
In the catering and food service industry, it is required by law and regulations that the kitchen is equipped with cooling machines that can rapidly decrease the temperature of hot food to maintain the quality and safety of food. Thanks to this process, food can be safely stored to be consumed at a later stage. The fast-cooling process is known asโฏblast chilling. But what exactly is blast chilling and what does it entail? Find out more in this article.
And what is a blast chiller?
A blast chiller is a robust cooling machine that blows chilled air on to food, rapidly decreasing its temperature to the core. This process is much faster than traditional cooling methods, and it helpsโฏavoid the spread of bacteriaโฏthat can occur during slower cooling processes. Blast chillers are found in commercial kitchens and areโฏnot a replacement for standard refrigerators. They are used to accelerate the cooling process of cooked dishes and maintain high food quality and health standards.
Food wasteโฏis a growing global problem, with a significantโฏenvironmental and economic impact. Itโsโฏimportant to recognize the role that the food service industry plays in this issue. While delicious food is a cornerstone of our industry, so is minimizing waste. Thankfully, innovative solutions likeโฏblast chillingโฏoffer aโฏpowerful tool to combat food waste and ensure a more sustainableโฏfutureโฏfor food service.โฏย
Why are blast chillers and blast freezers essential in any commercial kitchen?
A blast chiller is essential in any commercial kitchenโฏas it reduces the temperature of cooked or heated food from 70 ยฐC to 3 ยฐC (158 ยฐF to 37.4 ยฐF)โฏ within 90 minutes, which follows health and safety guidelines for the food and catering industry. In fact, bacteria tend to multiply faster in temperatures between +8 ยฐC and +68 ยฐC (46.4 ยฐF to 154.4 ยฐF).
Electrolux Professionalโs Blast Chillers are a top-of-the-line solution for rapidly chilling and preserving food in commercial kitchens. These specialized appliances use advanced technology to quickly bring the temperature of cooked food down to safe levels, which can help prevent bacterial growth and ensure the quality and freshness of food.โฏElectrolux Professionalโฏhas been respectful of the HACCP process since 1998 andโฏhas received the HACCP International Certification, which confirms their commitment to ensuring the highest hygiene standards along the entire food chain.
Blast freezing is another safe way to keep cooked food protected from bacteria growth while preserving its taste and nutritional value. Blast freezers are kept at an air temperature as low as -41 ยฐC, compared to standard freezers that are kept at around -18 ยฐC (-0.4 ยฐF ). Blast freezing accelerates the process and takes only 4 hours to freeze food, compared to the 6-12 hours it takes for a normal freezer. The freezing temperature and quick cooling time help to maintain the high quality of the food, including its nutritional value and appearance. Chefs can prepare menu items and freeze them for long-term storage without compromising their initial quality, which reduces food waste and increases efficiency.
The perfect blast chiller to suit your business needs
Blast chillers are essential appliances in modern commercial kitchens, required by local health and safety regulations to reduce time and food waste. When choosing a blast chiller, it is important toโฏselect one that meets the needs of the business and staff.โฏElectrolux Professional offers cutting-edge technology productsโฏthat are safe to use and ergonomic certified.
From small countertop units to larger models designed for high-volume operations,โฏthe companyโs blast chillers and freezers are built to last, with durable stainless-steel construction and user-friendly controls that make them easy to operate and maintain. Whether you are running a restaurant, bakery, or catering service,โฏElectrolux Professional blast chiller โ freezers can help you improve food safety and efficiencyโฏwhile maintaining the highest standards of quality and achieving your businessโ own sustainability goals.
Conclusion
By rapidly cooling cooked food,โฏblast chillers significantly reduce the timeframe for bacterial growth,โฏextending shelf life and minimizing the risk of spoilage. This translates toโฏless food waste, which benefits both your bottom line and the environment.โฏ
Electrolux Professional Group is committed toโฏdeveloping innovative solutions that empower businesses to operate more sustainably. Together, we can make a positive impact on the future of food service.โฏ
Italy, 18th February 2025 โ After three intense days of competition at the European Grand Prix 2025 / Global Chefs Challenge European Regional Semi-Final, the results are in! The event took place from February 16-18, 2025, during the Beer&Food Attraction in Rimini, Italy, bringing together some of Europeโs most talented culinary professionals.
Throughout the competition, top chefs showcased their expertise across four categories: Global Chefs Challenge, Global Young Chefs Challenge, Global Pastry Chefs Challenge, and Global Vegan Chefs Challenge. Competitors battled for a prestigious opportunity to advance to the Global Chefs Challenge Finals, set to take place at the 2026 Worldchefs Congress & Expo in Wales.
Results are listed below by category: Global Chefs Challenge, Global Young Chefs Challenge, Global Pastry Chefs Challenge and Global Vegan Chefs Challenge.
Worldchefs European Grand Prix: Global Chefs Challenge Results
Winner: Giuseppe De Vincenzo, Italy
2nd Place: Hinrik Orn Larusson, Iceland
3rd Place: Tommy Jespersen, Denmark
Global Chefs Challenge Final Qualifying Teams
Europe Central:
Ruben van Zanten, Netherlands
Andreo Roth, Slovakia
Europe North:
Hinrik Orn Larusson, Iceland
Tommy Jespersen, Denmark
Europe South:
Giuseppe De Vincenzo, Italy
Andrรฉ Serra, Portugal
See the official rankings below:
Worldchefs European Grand Prix: Global Young Chefs Challenge Results
Winner: Trym Karlsen, Norway
2nd Place: Papaioannou Konstantina, Cyprus
3rd Place: Benjamin Hellstrรถm, Sweden
Global Young Chefs Challenge Final Qualifying Teams
Europe Central: Antohi Paul, Romania
Europe North: Trym Karlsen, Norway
Europe South: Papaioannou Konstantina, Cyprus
See the official rankingsbelow:
Worldchefs European Grand Prix: Global Pastry Chefs Challenge Results
Winner: Martine Espeland, Norway
2nd Place: Milan Lukovic, Serbia
3rd Place: Marios Karagiorgis, Cyprus
Global Pastry Chefs Challenge Final Qualifying Teams
Europe Central: Karolรญna Hรกvovรก, Czech Republic
Europe North: Martine Espeland, Norway
Europe South: Milan Lukovic, Serbia
See the official rankingsbelow:
Worldchefs European Grand Prix: Global Vegan Chefs Challenge Results
Winner: Luigi DโAntonio, Italy
2nd Place: Bjarke Jeppesen, Denmark
3rd Place: Valerija Cudova, Latvia
Global Vegan Chefs Challenge Final Qualifying Teams
Europe Central: Alin Vadean, Romania
Europe North: Bjarke Jeppesen, Denmark
Europe South: Luigi DโAntonio, Italy
See the official rankingsbelow:
Congratulations to each participant, and to the qualifying teams that will move on to compete in Wales at the Global Chefs Challenge Finals in 2026.
The Global Chefs Challenge – Pacific Rim Semi-Finals will be held in Nikao, Cook Islands from 21-25 April, 2025.
The Global Chefs Challenge – Africa & Middle East Semi-Finals will be held in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates from 21-23 May, 2025.
The Global Chefs Challenge – Americas Semi-Finals will be held in Las Vegas, USA from 27-31 July, 2025.
The Global Chefs Challenge – Asia Semi-Finals will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 23-26 September, 2025.
If you wish to put your talent to the test, contact your National Chefs Association for opportunities to participate. Visit worldchefs.org/Members for a list of member nations.
Global Chefs Challenge Finals at Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2026
Worldchefs Congress & Expo is a hallmark tradition of Worldchefs, and has been organized in cities around the world throughout its illustrious 96-year history. The forum brings together delegates from across the five continents to network and expand their professional bonds. The unique program delivers presentations and workshops from leading experts in the hospitality industry, impactful educational programs including the Worldchefs Educatorsโ Forum, specialized events designed to uplift the next generation of chefs such as the Bill Gallagher Young Chefs Forum, an international trade exhibition, the Global Chefs Challenge competition, and diverse activities to enhance both personal and professional networks.
The 2026 Worldchefs Congress & Expo and Global Chefs Challenge Finals will be held in Wales, hosted by the Culinary Association of Wales.
The World Association of Chefsโ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a federation made up of 110 national chef associations. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries years of history since its founding in 1928 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:
Humanitarianism & Sustainability โ Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.
Education โ Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the landmark Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculum, and the worldโs first Global Culinary Certification recognizing on-the-job skillsin hospitality;
Networking โ 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 โ Worldchefs sets global standards for competition rules, provides Competition Seminars and assurance of Worldchefs Certified Judges, and operates the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge.
See the Arabic version below / ุงูุธุฑ ุฃุฏูุงู ููุงุทูุงุน ุนูู ุงููุณุฎุฉ ุงูุนุฑุจูุฉ.
Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals, created by Worldchefs’ Feed the Planet initiative, is now available in Arabic on Worldchefs Academy. This course offers a free 8-course curriculum for learners to deepen their knowledge of sustainable culinary methods and key topics in food systems.
With the expansion of this course to its second language on Worldchefs Academy, it becomes more accessible, now able to reach tens of thousands of Arabic-speaking chefs around the world.
Learn more about Feed the Planet programs including Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals at feedtheplanet.worldchefs.org.
Paris, 1 February 2025 – Worldchefs Academy is proud to announce the launch of Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals course now in Arabicโ a significant step in making this valuable education even more inclusive and accessible.
This launch marks a significant milestone for Worldchefs, as the course becomes a resource available for the tens of thousands of Arabic-speaking chefs worldwide.
A Global Initiative with Local Impact
Recognizing the growing demand for sustainability education from Arabic-speaking chefs, Worldchefs took a major step forward in 2023 by launching the Arabic version of the Sustainability Education trainers’ program, made possible by the expert translation of Ms. Shourouk Mohamed and Chef Haitham H. Hassoon.
This year, Chef Majed Al Sabagh, a highly respected culinary educator and Director of the Chef International Center (Chef Training And Consultancy) (CIC) in the UAE, along with his team, volunteered to adapt all of the Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals curriculum into Arabic on Worldchefs Academy, ensuring the program resonated with Arabic-speaking learners. Thanks to the help and support of these key contributors, Worldchefs deepens its commitment to providing accessible learning opportunities for chefs around the world, inspiring positive environmental and social impact in kitchens and communities.
Celebrating Graduates from Arabic-Speaking Countries
The response to the Arabic version of the course has been overwhelmingly positive, empowering 12 newly-approved trainers from Arabic-speaking countries to lead the way in sustainability education. Already, over 3,600 students have graduated from the program including:
Egypt: 2,262 graduates
Saudi Arabia: 361 graduates
Iraq: 662 graduates
Jordan: 314 graduates
Algeria: 60 graduates
“Translating and recording this course into the Arabic version alongside my family and colleagues proved to be real teamwork. It’s not simply a matter of changing the words, but we worked to find new examples to place throughout the curriculum that align with Arabic culture and are meaningful to the Arabs who enroll. I’m looking forward to not only study it, but also implement it in our lifestyle,” said Chef Majed.
To hear more about this important project, click here.
“We now have a remarkable opportunity to more deeply connect with Arab-speaking chefs through education. On behalf of the entire Worldchefs Board of Directors, we’d like to thank everyone whose dedication and expertise made this possible. We are extremely proud of this achievement and we look forward to furthering Worldchefs’ commitment to providing sustainability education in as many languages as possible,” said Worldchefs President, Andy Cuthbert.
Get started today by enrolling in Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals, in Arabic or English at https://worldchefsacademy.com/.
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About Worldchefs
The World Association of Chefsโ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a federation made up of 110 national chef associations. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries years of history since its founding in 1928 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:
Humanitarianism & Sustainability โ Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.
Education โ Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the landmark Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculum, and the worldโs first Global Culinary Certification recognizing on-the-job skillsin hospitality;
Networking โ 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 โ Worldchefs sets global standards for competition rules, provides Competition Seminars and assurance of Worldchefs Certified Judges, and operates the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge.
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