Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the winner of the sixth annual Florida Future Chef student cooking competition, concluding the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ statewide search that celebrated nutrition, innovation and Florida agriculture. Logan Whisenhunt of Pinellas County won first place with his dish, Cast Iron Panhandle Chicken with First Coast Corn Crostinis and Sunshine Matcha Mangos, a unique take on an elevated school meal that aligned with National School Lunch Program standards while showcasing Florida-grown lettuce and oranges.
The recipe earned top marks from the competition’s esteemed panel of judges for its innovative use of local foods, flavor, presentation, and overall execution, and Logan was awarded $5,000 in a Florida Investment 529 Plan in recognition of his achievement.
“Florida Future Chef is all about giving students a fun, hands-on opportunity to connect with the foods they eat at school while learning about nutrition and culinary skills,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “At the same time, Florida Future Chef helps to build a stronger understanding and connection between the next generation and where our food comes from and the farmers who work every day to feed our communities.”
Following a competitive statewide search, three talented chefs earned spots in the live finale event at the Epicurean Hotel in Tampa. There, they prepared original school meal-inspired dishes before a panel of three guest judges, and each finalist received college funds through a Florida Investment 529 Plan.
This year’s panel of esteemed judges included Heather Trice, Director of Food and Nutrition for Columbia County School District; Rosezine Killins, School Nutrition Specialist for Hillsborough County School District and 2026 Florida School Lunch Hero; and Jacob Rios, Culinary Director for Next Level Brands in Tampa.
Source : fdacs.gov