San Eight Trading Hosts the Third BABBI Gran Premio Contest for Professionals

San Eight Trading Presents the Third BABBI Gran Premio Contest

San Eight Trading Co., Ltd., an importer specializing in high-quality confectionery ingredients, has officially launched the entry application process for the third edition of the BABBI Gran Premio, starting from May 11. This exciting professional competition aims to showcase creativity and skill in the confectionery arts, emphasizing the beloved pistachio flavor.

What is BABBI?

Founded in the late 1940s by Attilio Babbi in Cesena, Italy, BABBI began producing premium gelato ingredients that quickly became a staple in the gelato industry. The company's commitment to using authentic ingredients and fresh materials set it apart from competitors, allowing it to flourish. As the gelato business slowed during the winter months, Babbi sought to diversify his offerings, eventually leading to the creation of wafers—now known globally as BABBI's signature specialties, VIENNESI and WAFERINI.

In 1952, he founded the company dedicated to crafting ingredients, cones, and wafers specifically for gelato makers. Since then, BABBI has upheld its philosophy of utilizing traditional methods and high-quality materials, launching a myriad of premium products over 74 years. Today, the brand stands as a global icon known for its exquisite chocolate confections, wafers, gelato, and baking ingredients. The legacy continues under the leadership of Carlo, Attilio's grandson, now serving as CEO, ensuring BABBI remains a family-run enterprise. Additionally, BABBI is dedicated to contributing positively to its community and the environment through various initiatives in education, sports, and social responsibility.

In Japan, BABBI wafers and chocolate confections are imported and sold by Regarino Co., while San Eight Trading handles the distribution of BABBI's baking ingredients.

The Third BABBI Gran Premio

This iteration of the BABBI Gran Premio revisits its roots. Previous competitions spotlighted pistachios and hazelnuts, showcasing numerous masterpieces underscored by skill and creativity. This year, competitors are invited to return to the iconic pistachio flavor—a hallmark of BABBI's success.

This specialized contest focuses on professional chefs and confectioners, tasking them with creating an entremets (a type of dessert) featuring BABBI's Pistachio Paste Deluxe or the uncolored SC version. The competition seeks to amplify the essence of pistachios in dessert-making, allowing professionals to flaunt their culinary talents.

Winners will receive an invitation for an insightful trip to Italy, enhancing their appreciation and knowledge of authentic Italian culinary traditions.

Competition Details

The third BABBI Gran Premio is organized by San Eight Trading Co., Ltd. and supported by BABBI SRL. The judging criteria center on:

- Expression of pistachio flavor
- Creativity in recipe and design

Eligibility

Applicants must reside in Japan and work professionally in the confectionery field—this includes chefs, chocolatiers, and confectionery technologists. The competition asks for participants to prepare one entremet primarily flavored with pistachio using either BABBI's Pistachio Paste Deluxe or the uncolored SC version.

Participation Fee

There is no fee to enter. For more details, visit the official San Eight Trading website: https://www.sun-eight.com/brand-babbi-2026/.

About San Eight Trading Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1979, San Eight Trading is a premier distributor of high-end confectionery materials, supplying products to various confectionery and baking shops across Japan, including patisseries and hotels. The company specializes in providing a curated selection of ingredients sourced globally, including BABBI nut pastes, chocolates, and fruit products, while also developing original brands like Sun Eight Plus, designed to inspire creativity among chefs with practical semi-finished and finished products built for ease of use.