“Cuisines Ouvertes” 2024: A Culinary Masterclass and Competition in EHPADs

In 2024, ONCA France is launching an exciting new initiative called “Cuisines Ouvertes”, designed to spotlight the importance of nutrition in residential care homes (EHPADs) while fostering creativity and engagement in meal preparation. This unique operation will feature a two-part event: a masterclass for apprentices and a culinary competition for catering teams in EHPADs, bringing together the worlds of nutrition and gastronomy to enrich the lives of elderly residents.

Culinary Masterclass: Training the Next Generation

One of the central elements of the “Cuisines Ouvertes” operation is a masterclass aimed at apprentices. This session will introduce aspiring chefs and culinary professionals to the specific challenges and opportunities involved in preparing meals for EHPAD residents.

Participants will gain hands-on experience, learning how to craft meals that meet the unique nutritional needs of elderly individuals, while also focusing on taste, presentation, and the emotional importance of food in residents’ daily lives. The masterclass offers an invaluable opportunity for young professionals to expand their skills and understanding in a critical area of public health.

Culinary Competition: Creativity in the Kitchen

The second component of “Cuisines Ouvertes” is a competition open to catering teams working in EHPADs. Teams will be invited to select one of two recipe categories and showcase their culinary skills, focusing on creating dishes that are not only nutritious but also appealing and enjoyable for residents.

To participate, teams will share their dish, along with the story behind their approach, on social media. This allows them to explain their inspiration, preparation techniques, and how they have tailored the dish to the preferences and needs of their residents. The engagement doesn’t stop in the kitchen—the dish that garners the most resident involvement and impresses a panel of judges will take home the top prize!

Fostering Community Through Food

Food plays a powerful role in community-building and well-being, particularly in care settings where shared meals are a cornerstone of daily life. The “Cuisines Ouvertes” competition is designed to engage not only the chefs and kitchen staff but also the residents, turning meal preparation into a participatory and joyful experience. By involving residents in the process and encouraging interaction through social media, the initiative creates a deeper connection between food, creativity, and care.

Why “Cuisines Ouvertes” Matters

“Cuisines Ouvertes” is about more than just competition; it’s about highlighting the importance of high-quality, enjoyable meals in EHPADs. Good nutrition is essential for the health and well-being of elderly residents, but so too is the joy that comes from eating a delicious meal in a communal setting. This operation celebrates the role of food in enhancing the quality of life for residents while promoting innovative and nutritious approaches to meal preparation.

By involving apprentices, catering teams, and residents, “Cuisines Ouvertes” fosters a shared commitment to improving nutritional care in EHPADs while showcasing the creativity and dedication of culinary teams working in these settings.

How to Participate

EHPAD catering teams and apprentices can find more information about registration for the masterclass and competition on ONCA France’s website and social media channels. Stay tuned for updates and get ready to be part of an inspiring culinary journey that connects nutrition, care, and community!