An insider from MasterChef Australia has disclosed how the judging process is conducted on the show. Contrary to popular belief, the judges taste the contestants' food while it is still being prepared, rather than solely during the final tastings. This approach ensures the judges experience the dishes at their optimum state. The insider mentioned that it is impractical to sample all dishes piping hot as they reach the panel, necessitating this method.
The final judgment occurs after the food has cooled due to the filming schedule. Judges are instructed not to discuss their initial impressions until contestants are present, to maintain spontaneity during critiques. Each contestant receives approximately 20 minutes for the judges to deliver their evaluations.
The current season of MasterChef Australia features Andy Allen returning to the judging panel alongside new faces: French celebrity chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, Melbourne-based food critic Sofia Levin, and runner-up from MasterChef's first season, Poh Ling Yeow. They replaced Melissa Leong and Jock Zonfrillo, with Jock having passed away last year. Viewers have expressed mixed reactions to the new panel on social media platforms like X.