BBB Maastricht receives Guinness World Record for world's largest flan

70th anniversary edition of hospitality trade show kicks off at MECC Maastricht

The 70th edition of BBB Maastricht kicked off today in and had a record-breaking opening: with an apricot flan weighing 1,057 kilograms, the organisers broke the official Guinness World Record. The presentation of the Dutch MICHELIN Stars 2025 took place at the same time. In addition, the organisation confirmed that the visitor record of the opening day had been amply exceeded. BBB Maastricht can still be visited until Wednesday 8 October at MECC Maastricht.

World record flan officially recognised

An apricot flan was presented at the opening ceremony, weighing in at 1,057 kilograms, officially confirmed by representative Seyda Subasi-Gemici of the Guinness World Records. The record attempt was an initiative of the fair organiser and baker Sébastien Trudelle (Patisserie Smores). 70 years ago, the exchange was established as bread and pastry fair. Therefore, for this anniversary, the Limburg Flan was initiated as a crowd puller.

The ingredients used for the preparation included 350 kg of flour, 600 eggs, 300 kg of sugar and 530 kg of apricots.

"We are all extremely proud to have succeeded. It was a challenge where precision was crucial." says Trudelle. 

After the official recognition, the flan was cut and shared with visitors to the fair.

MICHELIN award ceremony during opening day

The MICHELIN awards 2025 also took place during the opening day of BBB Maastricht. The ceremony brought together chefs, restaurateurs and other gastronomy representatives from the Netherlands and Belgium. MICHELIN's presence underlines BBB Maastricht's role as an important platform for culinary professionals in the Netherlands.

Record turnout at start of anniversary edition

The first day of the fair attracted a remarkably large number of visitors. Visitors from the Netherlands and Belgium attended tastings, demonstrations and networking sessions.

"It is extraordinary to see how many professionals have found their way to Maastricht," says Silvie Slachter, exhibition manager of BBB Maastricht. "The high turnout adds to the festive atmosphere befitting this anniversary edition."

Various activities will take place during the fair, including cooking demonstrations, master classes, innovation sessions and networking events.