An interesting take on this difficult challenge. I must agree with the other comments left on this image - just nothing exciting going on. Perhaps if you had shadows of the knife and spoon included also, in an interesting composition it would have done better. Advanced editing really gives you the opportunity to play and make an otherwise dull image shine - don't be afraid to try some unusual stuff.
this as it is is boring. since this was advanced editing, you may have found some post processing to give it life, like really boost the contrast, the hue/sat. even toss a border around it. as is, there's nothing to really keep me here.
just not my taste I guess.. I wish I could say more to help you out but i'm not sure why i dont like it.. good luck in this challenge (i wont rate you bad just b/c of it not being my taste)