Organisers continue to challenge entrants. This year teams will be required to produce a low-carbon, three-course meal within a budget of between £6-£8.
One course has to be completely allergen free, and the starter has to be plant based, while no one is to use any form of nut throughout the competition.
Following paper judging, there will be regional heats throughout July and early August.
Up to eight teams will then go forward to the final in York, competing over five days from October 14-18.
To prepare for this all finalists will be invited to attend a mentoring event in Cannock from September 3-5, with a series of guest speakers and training sessions.
Last year the competition was won by Darby Hayhurst and Dylan Lucas from East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust.
The runners-up were Ryan Corbett and Laila Darlington from Greater Manchester Mental Health Trust and third place went to Les Beare and Josh Banner from Wye Valley NHS Trust.
The competition, which is in its fourth year now, showcases how rewarding a career as an NHS chef can be supporting patients in their recovery whilst working as part of a team.
All forms are available on the Future NHS Hub or you request them by email at: england.greatnhsfood@nhs.net