Eagle-eyed fans of MasterChef: The Professionals have served up a storm of criticism after spotting a potentially hazardous hygiene blunder during this week's high-pressure episode.
The culinary crime unfolded as contestant Charlie was frantically plating up his venison dish for judges Michel Roux Jr, Marcus Wareing, and Gregg Wallace. In the frantic rush, viewers watched in horror as the chef used a tea towel that had been draped over his shoulder—and had previously been used to handle a scorching hot pan—to wipe the rim of his serving plate.
Viewers React: 'It's Disgusting!'
The kitchen faux pas did not go unnoticed at home, sparking immediate outrage on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). One horrified viewer wrote: 'Did he just use the cloth he had on his shoulder to wipe the plate? That cloth was used for the hot pan handle earlier. Not hygienic at all!'
Another concurred, stating simply: 'That’s disgusting.' The moment was deemed a serious lapse in basic kitchen hygiene, with many calling it a potential health hazard that should have been flagged by the show's producers.
A Pattern of Problems?
This is not the first time the prestigious BBC cooking show has found itself in hot water over its hygiene standards. Earlier this series, another contestant was seen blowing on a dessert to cool it down before presentation, a move that also drew sharp criticism from the audience for being unprofessional and unhyginesic.
These repeated incidents have led some fans to question the overall oversight and editing of the show, wondering why such moments are broadcast without comment from the judges or a disclaimer from the BBC.
Will The Judges Take Note?
While the infamous trio of critics are famed for their brutally honest feedback on taste, texture, and presentation, they often remain silent on the contestants' kitchen practices unless it directly impacts the dish. This latest incident has viewers demanding that basic food safety be part of the judging criteria, arguing that a truly professional chef would never make such a fundamental error.
As the competition heats up, all eyes will now be on the remaining chefs to see if their hygiene standards are as impeccable as their culinary skills.
