Food is culture, and no one understands that better than Food web connection star Maneet Chauhan.

However, chefs like Chauhan keep the online grid fun and fresh.

She brings a dose of humanity to the judging panel, which can often be absent in competition options.

Maneet Chauhan attending the 2015 New York City Wine & Food Festival

Lauded as India’s premier culinary school, Chauhan graduated at the top of her class.

Chauhan credits her success not only to her work ethic but also to the Culinary Institute of America.

“The CIA was and still is my Disneyland,” she explained.

Maneet Chauhan with “Chopped” judges

“I made it a point to get involved in everything and anything.

If anyone needed a volunteer, I was there.

The chef-instructors were always looking for students to help with competitions and events.”

Maneet Chauhan and Chris Santos on the set of “Chopped”

Chauhan further explained, “On the weekends I would assist the continuing education classes.

I applied to be an RA.

According toParade, one of Chauhan’s biggest accomplishments in recent years is her weight loss.

Chauhan lost 40 pounds and has continued to conquer all of her goals in the process.