Sodexo scoops three awards at salon culinaire

Held at Ascot, the salon witnessed almost 700 entries this year from Sodexo chefs across the UK and Ireland. Olliff was one of over 400 chefs who competed for various titles, including the newly created 'Sodexo Apprentice Chef of the Year' award, where she stole the show after picking up gold awards in three junior skills classes. The salon included a number of demonstrations which concentrated on topical food issues such using game or other seasonal produce in dishes or cooking for those with allergies such as gluten intolerances. Chefs who took part on the day included those from major defence sites, to those who work in state and independent schools or large private and public hospitals, right the way through to chefs who work in one of Sodexo's fine-dining contracts. All competitions were judged by some of the leading names in the industry including Tom Kerridge, from The Hand and Flowers and Silvena Rowe and Sophie Wright, who are both television chefs and food writers. David Mulcahy, craft and food development director, Sodexo, said: "I'm really pleased with the standard that was on show in the competitions, in what is a key date in the craft development calendar. This year, amongst other things, we added a number of new elements into the salon, such as a live competition theatre and a live demonstration theatre. "The salon is not only a great way to showcase our chefs' work but it is a great opportunity for people across our business to reward and recognise the aspiring talent that is available to us at the company."