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Budding young chefs and food innovators across schools in Scotland are being called to take part in the Global Burger Challenge for 2025, an initiative designed to educate pupils on the journey food takes from farm to fork.

Organised by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) in partnership with Food and Drink Federation (FDF) Scotland, this year’s competition will challenge pupils aged 11 to 15 to create a burger inspired by global cuisine, while considering health, sustainability, cost, and marketing.

The winning pupil and their class will have the opportunity to attend the Royal Highland Show in June, where they will take part in an awards ceremony hosted at the QMS stand.

Using QMS’s Farming Foodsteps resources, pupils will gain valuable insights into the high standards of Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork. They will then use this knowledge to develop a burger that embodies the flavours of a chosen country or continent, while also considering the nutritional value, environmental impact, and commercial viability of their creation.

Entrants will be judged on their ability to incorporate authentic global flavours, demonstrate awareness of sustainability and nutrition, manage costings, and develop engaging packaging and marketing strategies. The challenge offers a comprehensive learning experience that bridges the gap between food production and consumer choices.

Teachers can access the official Teacher’s Pack, which includes all necessary resources to guide pupils through the competition.

Open to S1, S2, and S3 pupils across Scottish secondary schools with one entry per class, the deadline for entries is 14 March 2025.

For more information and to take part, please email Tracy Martin, QMS Health & Education Coordinator at tmartin@qmscotland.co.uk, or Moira Stalker, FDF Scotland’s Skills Manager at moira.stalker@fdfscotland.org.uk.