Masterchefs new COVID-19 rules to hit screens tonight
There’ll be no emotional elimination hugs or shared tasting plates when a new-look MasterChef airs tonight with COVID-19 rules hitting the kitchen.
Fiona Byrne
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Channel 10’s top rating cooking series MasterChef is about to look very different for viewers as social distancing rules come into play.
Starting with the episode airing tonight, viewers will notice a change in the way the show is filmed, how the contestants interact and the judging and tasting of dishes.
There will also be no emotional farewell group hugs or team high-fives.
These social distancing protocols were put in place when the episodes were filmed in March as the COVID-19 crisis escalated.
MasterChef is still filming at the Melbourne Showgrounds and the protocols remain in place.
“On the set, changes have been made to the spacing of contestant cooking benches and gloves provided for team challenges where equipment may be shared, as well as when handling food in the pantry,” an Endemol Shine Australia spokesman said.
“Additional sinks have been added as dedicated hand washing stations.
“Judges step up to taste individually portioned meals and no cutlery or plates are shared.”
MasterChef, hosted by Jock Zonfrillo, Melissa Leong and Andy Allen, is having its most successful season in five years.