Meanwhile the front-of-house contestants will have to create a non-alcoholic mixed drink based on a high quality Jasmine Green Tea, all while giving careful consideration to the nutritional content of their drinks and keeping sugar levels to a minimum.

In both cases, the competitors will have to develop a video and other digital content to help bring their dishes and drinks to life before taking part in a virtual cooking and drinks challenge on 15 April.

Their creations will then be packaged and distributed for judging before the finalists are announced at the end of April ahead of the climax of the competition later in the summer.

Mathew Shropshall, University College Birmingham chef lecturer and back of house Nestlé team mentor, said it was an honour to put the students forward for this year's contest.

"Over the years we've seen University College Birmingham students develop and learn from this wonderful catering and hospitality competition," he said. "Following a difficult 12 months, it's a pleasure to mentor and train them in their research for success.

"They all remain a credit to the University and their families. We've completed the first part, now the semi-finals await them!"

Professional Chef FdA year manager Richard Taylor said: "It is a fantastic achievement to get into the semi-finals of the Toque d'Or. It means our students are performing at the very highest level, even with the challenges faced over the past year.

"It takes unflagging commitment and professionalism to enter a competition which showcases their all-round skills to the world. We wish them every success in this competition and hope the learning experience will be rewarding."

Food and Beverage lecturer Christine Alberto said: "I am very honoured to be part of this prestigious competition and be able to mentor my former Level 3 Food and Beverage service student Georgia Wheatley.

"This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase skills and determination to shine after a very difficult year."

Hopes will be high that the quartet can continue the trend of success for University College Birmingham students at the Toque d'Or, with teams from the University having carried off the title five times since 2010, most recently at the 2019 competition.

University College Birmingham provides a wealth of opportunities for students on our renowned food and hospitality courses to gain experience and put their skills to the test in industry competitions.

Find out more about the range of courses available within our Birmingham College of Food and our Department of Hospitality and Tourism.