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Shengzhou steamed buns. [Photo/Tide News]

The county-level city of Shengzhou held its first National Steamed Buns Competition on Oct 18, drawing skilled chefs from across China to showcase their craft.

Twenty teams, including Shengzhou's own, competed to create the most distinctive steamed buns, each preparing two signature baskets for the judges.

Chefs displayed precise techniques as they rolled, filled, and steamed the steamed buns, with judges assessing each entry on flavor, presentation, aroma, and innovation, awarding prizes across several categories.

Known for its rich culinary tradition, Shengzhou has developed its snack industry — anchored by Shengzhou steamed buns — into an economic driver. The city has implemented recipe standardization, trademarking, and infrastructure investment, including a "Snack Industry Park", to further expand its brand and influence in the food sector.

Today, more than 30,000 Shengzhou-branded snack shops operate nationwide, employing over 80,000 people and generating approximately 14 billion yuan ($1.94 billion) annually.