Do you have a compelling food story to tell?
IGCAT (International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism) invites filmmakers from around the world to submit their short films for the Food Film Menu 2026, an international competition celebrating the rich diversity of food cultures, traditions, and regional gastronomic heritage.
Each year, the Food Film Menu showcases up to 14 outstanding winning short films that capture the deep connections between food, heritage, and local identity. These films serve as a powerful medium to highlight the importance of preserving food traditions, promoting sustainability, and fostering a greater appreciation of regional gastronomy.
Submissions are open to all filmmakers, from professionals to enthusiasts, who can creatively convey the stories of food producers, culinary traditions, sustainable practices, and the cultural significance of food. The selected films will receive international recognition and will be promoted across IGCAT’s website, social media channels, and global partner networks, as well as featured in international film festivals.
Why Participate?
By taking part in the Food Film Menu 2026, filmmakers contribute to the global movement of raising awareness about the value of food heritage and sustainability. Winning films will not only be showcased internationally but will also enter a social media vote, where audiences worldwide will select the Public’s Favourite Film.
Themes and Categories
The competition is open to a wide range of food-related themes, including but not limited to:
Regenerative Pathways – Encouraging sustainable and locally rooted tourism practices.
Category partner: Regenerative Vanua
Feeding the Planet – Exploring food origins, biodiversity, and food security.
Category partner: Slow Food
Educating for Our Future – Highlighting the importance of food education and sustainable consumption.
Category partner: Future Food Institute
Culinary Journeys – Showcasing local cuisines and traditions through immersive storytelling.
Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship – Celebrating new and inspiring food-related businesses and initiatives.
Food Heritage and Traditions – Capturing the historical and cultural significance of regional gastronomy.
Young Director Award – Recognizing emerging filmmakers aged 18-35 who bring fresh perspectives to food storytelling.
How to Submit Your Film Deadline: 29 June 2026
• Films should be no longer than 5 minutes in duration.
• All languages are accepted, but films must include English subtitles.
• Short films should be submitted via email. Download the registration form, also available on IGCAT’s website.
Fill in the form and send it to partnerships@igcat.org together with a link to your film.
Read the Open Call here.