NACC launches Care Chef of the Year 2021 competition

The National Association of Care Catering (NACC) has launched its search for the best chef working in the care sector, with entries for its Care Chef of the Year 2021 competition opening today.

All chefs and cooks working across the care sector can enter the culinary competitio, which recognises and celebrates sector-specific knowledge and skills.

Entrants will be challenged to create a two-course menu of main and dessert appropriate for a care setting. The combined food cost for both courses should be no more than £2.25 per head based on three portions and it must be nutritionally balanced. The menu must also feature a product from Unilever Food Solutions’ sector-relevant portfolio.

In addition, to highlight the importance of cleanliness and hygiene best practice in the care sector and as a key factor for success in the competition, the NACC has reintroduced the Hygiene Award.

The two highest-scoring competitors from each regional heat will secure a place in the national final on 6 October at Stratford-upon-Avon College.

Sue Cawthray, national chair of the NACC, said: “It’s wonderful to be able to announce the launch of the NACC Care Chef of the Year competition for 2021. And what’s even better is that there is also the real hope that this year’s event will unfold in person.

“This fantastic competition is so important to our work that raises awareness of the value of the care catering sector and the profile of the incredibly talented, knowledgeable and dedicated chefs within it. This has never been so important.

"It has been a challenging year for everyone, especially those on the frontline. As well as propelling the importance of the care sector to the forefront of consciousness, the pandemic has put a much-needed spotlight on the vital link between good food and nutrition and good care and wellbeing.

"It is important that we keep the momentum around this conversation and that’s exactly what our competition can do, while also celebrating care chefs and giving them the opportunities to develop both professionally and personally.

For more information on the NACC Care Chef of the Year 2021 competition and to download an entry form click here.

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