The World Food Championships (WFC) is proud to announce an expanded commitment to environmental sustainability at this year’s event in Indianapolis, November 8-12, 2024. As the world’s largest food sport competition, WFC is leveraging its platform to promote sustainable food practices and eco-friendly materials throughout the championship experience.
In alignment with this mission, WFC has partnered with the Chefs’ Manifesto, a global network of chefs advocating for the transformation of food systems to ensure good food for all. Grounded in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Chefs’ Manifesto focuses on driving action to achieve SDG2: protecting biodiversity, encouraging local and seasonal foods, focussing on food safety and healthy diets, as well as ensuring food is accessible and affordable for all. With chefs across more than 95 countries, the initiative advocates for food that is good for people and the planet, helping WFC promote conscious ingredient sourcing during the competition. The Chefs’ Manifesto supports the “Beans is How” campaign – a campaign with the mission to double the global consumption of beans (as well as peas, lentils, and other pulses) by 2028 – and WFC will be requiring competitors to create a dish featuring beans in the Opening Round of the World Vegetarian Championship. Additionally, WFC chefs will incorporate produce, proteins, and ingredients grown with respect for the earth, making sustainability a key element of this year’s event.
“We’re thrilled to collaborate with WFC and witness some critical steps taken to shifting the way we source, create and eat food,” said Paul Newnham, CEO of SDG2 Advocacy Hub. “Competitions like WFC help spotlight the critical role chefs play in creating a food system that nourishes both people and the planet, as well as encourage attendees to think about their own food choices. Everyone has a role to play in ensuring good food for all.”
Additionally, WFC is excited to announce an extension to their strategic partnership with Natural Tableware, a leader in sustainable tableware solutions designed to reduce plastic waste. Natural Tableware produces high-quality, biodegradable products made from renewable resources like sugarcane and palm leaves. Their mission is to eliminate single-use plastics from the culinary industry by providing eco-friendly alternatives that combine elegance with functionality. At this year’s WFC, Natural Tableware’s products will replace traditional plastic disposables in all areas of the event, from making products available for all competitors in the opening rounds to premium events such as the Taste of WFC and Grand Tastings. This partnership reinforces WFC’s goal to elevate the culinary experience while minimizing environmental impact.
“Partnering with WFC gives us a unique opportunity to show how eco-conscious choices can elevate the dining experience without compromising on quality or elegance,” said Angela Castelli, President and CEO of Natural Tableware. “We’re proud to be part of this mission to make food sport more sustainable.”
These partnerships not only enhance the event’s sustainability efforts but also reflect WFC’s dedication to promoting a more responsible and conscious food culture. The 2024 WFC will serve as a platform where culinary excellence and environmental stewardship go hand in hand, inspiring attendees, competitors, and partners to make thoughtful, planet-friendly choices in the kitchen.
“As we showcase the world’s top culinary talent, we also recognize our responsibility to make thoughtful, planet-friendly choices,” added Michael Eaton, CEO of World Food Championships. “Partnering with Chef’s Manifesto and Natural Tableware helps us ensure that our event not only celebrates great food but does so with respect for the planet.”
Since its debut in 2012, WFC has garnered a global following, providing unique culinary experiences at live events and through numerous television appearances. The WFC platform has revolutionized competitive cooking, known as “Food Sport,” by offering a level playing field, a fair judging system, and innovative culinary programming. Over the years, WFC has facilitated the creation of more than 10,000 new dishes and has partnered with local non-profits, charities, and food banks across the U.S. The 2024 World Food Championships will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana, from November 8-12, with qualifying events taking place throughout the year. Ticket information and purchasing options for the 2024 World Food Championships at the Indiana State Fairgrounds can be found here.
Consumers and competitors can stay informed on all the latest announcements and programming for the upcoming championship by following World Food Championships on Facebook and Instagram (@WorldFoodChampionships) and LinkedIn (@WorldFoodChampionshipsHoldings).
About World Food Championships
The World Food Championships (WFC) is the premier food sport competition globally. This multi-day, live culinary event showcases some of the world’s best cooks competing for food, fame, and fortune across twelve categories: Bacon, Barbecue, Burger, Chef, Dessert, Live Fire, Noodle, Rice, Sandwich, Seafood, Soup, and Vegetarian. Each year, thousands of teams vie for a coveted Golden Ticket at official qualifiers to earn their spot at WFC. Since its debut in 2012, the event has attracted participants from nearly 40 countries and every state in the U.S. The 2024 World Food Championships will take place from November 8-12 at the Indiana Farm Bureau Fall Creek Pavilion, located at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center in Indianapolis. For more information, visit WorldFoodChampionships.com.
