Denmark has steadily risen in the absolute gastronomic premier league over the years, continuously earning coveted accolades. This achievement doesn’t come without dedicated work and the development and retention of culinary talents. The Danish Gastronomic Union Foundation usually cultivates talent through the six national culinary teams.
âThe teams’ results generate interest in the profession and attract young people to the industry. They are important role models contributing to the renewal of taste, quality, professionalism, and experience in Danish gastronomy. And we’re very keen to support that,” says Zanne Burø, managing director at Compass Group, Northern Europe and continues: âAt Compass Group, we draw inspiration for innovation from the trends and new currents that emerge from these talented national culinary teams. Moreover, we deeply rely on continued interest in choosing the culinary profession.â
One of the six culinary national teams is the Junior Culinary National Team, led by team manager Jesper Hedegaard Schmidt:
âWe don’t achieve our good position on the gastronomic map without effort. We need to ensure a strong talent pipeline. With the Junior Culinary National Team, we attract young people to the industry. They find a strong professional community where they are challenged to innovate. Here, they are both part of a team and have the opportunity to find their own culinary expression. This is crucial for maintaining such a strong pool of new culinary talents that can keep us in the gastronomic premier league. We know it’s what it takes for talent development in the long run and for retaining culinary talents in the industry,” emphasizes Jesper Hedegaard Schmidt.
We’re rooting for the team!
Last week, we attended a test dinner with the Junior Culinary National Team, which is currently training intensively for the Olympics in Stuttgart in February â we’re cheering for the team and express our gratitude for the sublime food!