Belgium, Italy, Spain, Brazil, India, Japan, South Korea, Mali… Fifteen teams of bakers from all continents competed for three days in the ninth edition of the prestigious World of breadorganized as part of the food trade fair Serbotel In Nantes. The international jury delivered its verdict this Wednesday afternoon. And, surprise, it is China which wins for the first time.
Competitors were evaluated on several technical tests requiring them to demonstrate their talent in making bread, but also pastries, snacks and brioches. They were also asked to produce an artistic piece. All while respecting the two main criteria: taste and nutrition. The trio of Chinese bakers, in particular, made the difference through their “aesthetic sense” and their “taste quality”, reports the jury.
“It tickles us a little, it’s true”
“It is a great pride to win this World Cup in France, it is a very important prize for our profession,” rejoices Robert Luo, coach of the Chinese team. Bread is not the main food consumed in China. But this price shows that our economy is developing, that our gastronomic culture is approaching international standards. »
Alexandre Boyer, co-organizer of the World Cup with the association Bread Ambassadors, looks admiringly at the winners. “The level was very high this year. The Chinese team was extremely well prepared, there were more than a hundred pre-selections in the country. The Chinese are fond of our breads, our croissants, our artisanal products. There are more and more bakeries there. They want to break into this field and give themselves the means to do so by being extremely well trained. »
Already beaten by Japan in 2021 and 2019, as well as by Taiwan in 2017, does France still deserve its reputation as the undisputed master of baking? “It tickles us a little, it’s true, it also feels good to question ourselves,” admits Alexandre Boyer. Many other countries have started to adopt French-style bread, they come to train with our professionals, they also bring their own knowledge, and are progressing quickly. This World Cup is proof of that. But we must put things into perspective. In France, we remain an essential country for baking. A country also of excellence for our gastronomy and our agriculture. »