Chefs make wheaten foods at the World Wheaten Foods Conference. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The World Wheaten Foods Conference concluded in the Ancient City of Pingyao, Shanxi province on July 10.

Following fierce competition, 10 dishes stood out among 36 competitors to be awarded the title of Best Wheaten Food. The top 10 come from either world famous brands, such as Beijing Daoxiangcun and Qingfeng Baozi, or new emerging businesses like Sunji Baizi.

The program, sponsored by China Hospitality Association, Shanxi Department of Commerce and Jinzhong municipal government, has been broadcast on Shanxi Satellite TV each Tuesday evening since April.

The 12 episodes have provided viewers with a visual feast as well as demonstrated traditional techniques of making wheaten foods.

"Shanxi has aimed to create a platform of communication for wheaten food businesses from around the world," said Wang Yixin, vice-governor of Shanxi.

The program is also expected to promote Shanxi's economic and cultural exchange with the outside world, according to Zhao Jiaji, an expert specializing in Shanxi brands.

Flour-made food boasts a long history in Shanxi. But it is less popular than the famous Lanzhou hand-pulled noodles and Chongqing small noodles from other parts of China.

Sun Yuejin, director of Shanxi Department of Commerce, attributed the underdeveloped pasta industry to the province's former focus on its coal industry.

"We have realized the problem and are determined to change the situation and that is why we held the event," said Sun.