Food and drink news for the discerning consumer
Wednesday, 4 March 2026
That's Health: Avocados Are Good For Women's Health
That's Health: Avocados Are Good For Women's Health: Yor D. Andonova Ahead of International Women’s Day, the World Avocado Organisation (WAO) is spotlighting the importance of nutrition in sup...
That's Health: Two in three patients hide weight loss treatment f...
That's Health: Two in three patients hide weight loss treatment f...: Simple Online Pharmacy publishes the UK’s largest study into GLP-1 stigma, revealing secrecy, judgement and a stark generational divide. Two...
2026 UK BBQ innovations from two leading global outdoor grill brands
CHAR-BROIL NEW FOR 2026
The first hybrid electric2coal BBQ: Powerful, Versatile, Compact, ideal for smaller outdoor spaces
Hybrid BBQ grill leader Char-Broil launches the UK’s first hybrid electric/coal BBQ: Patio Bistro E2Coal. This compact and space saving grill helps urban dwellers get the most from smaller outdoor spaces.
Designed for modern city living where smaller gardens, courtyards and balconies are common, the versatile barbecue may be small in stature, but delivers outstanding, flavoursome results thanks to the Char-Broil’s renowned TRU-Infrared™ technology which evenly distributes heat whilst you cook, ensuring food stays up to 50% lip-smackingly juicier as a result.
Its innovative Hybrid Power Technology also lets you switch effortlessly between electric or traditional charcoal-fired cooking for maximum flavour flexibility.
Fast convenient E-power for maximum performance
Simply plug in and switch on the electric grill. Reaching 315°C within 20 minutes and a maximum temperature of 370°C, the compact electric grill heats up fast and delivers that authentic seared flavour every time. The electric power is perfect for fast, intense grilling sessions, so no long waiting times, just great ‘instant’ barbecue moments.
Electric to charcoal in just a few, simple steps
With the Patio Bistro E2Coal you can opt for quick electric grilling or choose a slower traditional charcoal cook, giving you the best of both worlds. Whichever you choose, it’s easy to transform your electric BBQ to a charcoal grill in just a few simple steps, and no tools are required.
Simply place charcoal on the dedicated grate, reinsert the cooking grate at mark ‘C’, and you’re ready to light the charcoal easily using the electric heating element.
Barbecue juicier than ever with TRU-Infrared™ Technology
Char-Broil’s TRU-Infrared™ Technology is the key to achieving succulent barbecue foods. A specially designed stainless-steel grate distributes the heat evenly across the entire cooking surface minimising food residues dripping onto the heating elements that can create unwanted flare-ups that can burn, taint and dry out your barbecue food. The result of this efficient technology is barbecued food that's up to 50% juicier. Even better, this technology also helps reduce energy consumption.
You can also transform your Patio Bistro E2Coal BBQ into an electric griddle in seconds by purchasing the optional griddle plate (sold separately).
A removable warming rack keeps your food hot, toasts bread or provides an indirect cooking zone for more delicate dishes. Barbecue cooking is best done with the lid down to retain heat, reduce cooking times, and it also helps keep food hot on the warming rack away whilst you complete your meal.
That’s why Char-Broil has integrated an easy-to-read analogue temperature gauge into the lid to help you monitor the perfect temperature at all times, ensuring tender, juicy results, every time you cook.
With a helpful three-metre power cord, you have the freedom to reach indoor and outdoor sockets, and the two sturdy wheels and side handles make it easy to manoeuvre the BBQ to exactly where you need it.
Everything within reach
Like Dr Who’s Tardis, the Patio Bistro E2Coal has unbelievable storage capacity to keep everything organised in its built in storage space. The middle shelf includes a dedicated griddle storage rail, whilst a lower shelf offers space to store charcoal tools. Two integrated tool hooks keep everything you need always within reach.
Where to buy
Available from John Lewis, Argos, Next, B&Q and Amazon, the Char-Broil Patio Bistro E2Coal (RRP: £349.00) is the perfect electric and charcoal hybrid BBQ for city living. Powerful, durable and easy to use. Accessories include a durable cover (RRP: £39.95) and griddle (RRP: £39.95).
ALSO AVAILABLE for the smallest of homes and outdoor spaces
Patio Bistro E2Coal has a lightweight and portable electricity powered brother, the new Char-Broil Patio Bistro Cube E. Perfect for cooking for 2-3 people, the Cube E has a smaller 38.4cm stainless steel grate and has the same patented TRU-Infrared™ Technology to ensure smaller doesn’t mean less tasty. The evenly distributed heat across the entire grate, minimises unwanted flare-up and ensures that your barbecued food is up to 50% juicier. The efficient technology also helps reduce energy consumption.
Despite its compact size, the Patio Bistro Cube E is robust and impressively powerful. Switch on, keep the lid down, and watch the integrated analogue temperature gauge start to rise. You’re ready to cook in under 20 minutes at 280°C, reaching a maximum of 320°C to deliver that authentic seared flavour every time.
The Cube E design and three metre power cord mean it can stand squarely on the floor of your balcony, patio, or tabletop on your garden or outdoor dining table. Thanks to its compact design, it’s easy to store when not in use.
Where to buy
Available from John Lewis, Argos, Next, B&Q and Amazon, the Char-Broil Patio Bistro Cube E (RRP: £229.00) is the perfect electric BBQ for city living and balconies. Powerful, durable and easy to use, a durable cover (RRP: £24.95) is available to purchase separately.
PIT BOSS NEW FOR 2026, the Onyx Edition
A striking collection of advanced pellet smokers, grills and griddles.
Pit Boss®, a global leader in bold outdoor cooking innovation, is launching the Onyx range in the UK, a striking new collection of pellet smokers, grills and griddles designed to elevate outdoor cooking with powerful performance, modern styling, and unmatched versatility and value.
Featuring a sleek matte black finish, cutting-edge technology, and Pit Boss’ signature Bigger. Hotter. Heavier.® construction, the Onyx range delivers premium outdoor cooking without compromise. From industry-leading wood pellet grills with the patented flame broiler to charcoal barbecues and the highly innovative portable griddle, each Onyx Edition product is engineered to perform across a wide range of cooking styles and occasions.
Every model is fuelled by quality materials, backed by Pit Boss’ best-in-class 5-year warranty, and built to be the centrepiece of any outdoor setup.
The Onyx range includes four standout products featuring bold design and reliable Pit Boss performance, and all available from UK BBQ specialists nationwide:
Pit Boss® Classic Onyx Edition - RRP £649: This wood pellet grill combines proven Pit Boss performance with advanced digital technology and a distinctive look - a versatile and dependable choice for everyday grilling.
Offering 4,769 cm² of cooking space and an 8.5 kg hopper (pellet) capacity, the Classic can handle everything from weeknight meals to weekend party entertaining. The advanced digital control board allows precise temperature control from 82 to 260 °C in 5-degree increments, while the Flame Broiler™ Lever enables direct flame searing at temperatures up to 535 °C. An inbuilt meat probe ensures results are just how you like them. Designed for true versatility, the Classic delivers Pit Boss’ 8-in-1 cooking capability, allowing users to smoke, bake, sear, grill, barbecue, braise, char-grill, and roast, all in one machine.
Pit Boss® Austin XL Onyx Edition wood pellet grill with precision controls – RRP £749 - takes everything fans love about this best-selling grill and elevates it with enhanced technology and bold new styling. With more than 6,503 cm² of cooking space, the Austin XL is built for cooks who love to host, effortlessly handling large gatherings or family feasts.
Equipped with an leading-edge electronic temperature setting controller, the Austin XL offers settings at low temperatures for ultimate control, allowing users to adapt to their environment or increase smoke density. Temperature control ranges from 82 to 260 °C in precise 5-degree increments, while the Flame Broiler™ Lever allows for direct flame searing up to 535 °C. Two meat probes ensure precise and delicious results, while the 8-in-1 cooking capability offers ultimate flexibility. All this power is housed in a sleek matte black design and backed by Pit Boss’ industry-leading 5-year warranty.
The Pit Boss® Lexington Charcoal Onyx Edition – RRP £299 – is an iconic barrel design charcoal grill with a sleek matte black finish accented with striking copper details.
With 3,503 cm² of cooking space, the Lexington Charcoal is built for classic, flavour-forward barbecue with modern convenience. The side-access charcoal tray makes refuelling easy, while thoughtful storage options keep tools and accessories close at hand.
The Lexington delivers reliable performances every time and timeless charcoal flavour.
Pit Boss® Sierra Onyx Edition Griddle, RRP 649. Innovation meets versatility with this powerful, full-size gas griddle that can be turned into a portable griddle for cooking anywhere, anytime. The full size griddle can either be used on its stand as a full size BBQ grill or, thanks to the “Lift-Off” functionality, it easily converts into a tapletop plancha for camping or small urban set ups.
Featuring a proprietary non-stick ceramic-coated cooking surface, the Sierra delivers an unmatched, user-friendly griddle experience. This 3,458 cm² ceramic cooking surface is ready to use straight out of the box and requires minimal clean-up, needing only a gentle wipe after use.
The ceramic coating also protects against scratches and rust, helping the griddle look better for longer. With three stainless steel burners and a range of smart accessories, it’s the most versatile griddle in the Pit Boss lineup.
You can buy them at the following link: https://amzn.to/4aYPN0g
Tuesday, 3 March 2026
How Long Can A Bottle Of Wine Be Left Open Before It Goes Bad? Experts Reveal The Exact Number Of Days
Key Points:
Wine experts reveal how many days each wine type stays good after opening, from sparkling to fortified wines
Sparkling wine lasts just 1–3 days while fortified wines can stay fresh for up to four weeks
Expert shares preservation techniques and warning signs that indicate your wine has turned
We've all been there: you open a bottle of wine for dinner, enjoy a glass or two, then wonder, “How long will the rest stay drinkable?”
According to experts, the answer isn't as simple as you might think, and keeping wine past its prime can ruin what was once a beautiful bottle.
The team at Genuwine Cellars, a global leader in luxury wine cellar design and installation with over 10,000 bespoke projects completed worldwide, understands wine preservation better than most.
With nearly three decades of experience helping collectors protect their investments, they know exactly how long each wine type remains at its best after opening.
“One of the most common questions we hear from wine enthusiasts is about opened bottles,” Robb Denomme, Founder and CEO of Genuwine Cellars told That's Food and Drink.
“The truth is, different wines have very different lifespans once exposed to air. Knowing these timelines can save you from wasting good wine or serving wine that's past its prime.”
Below, Denomme breaks down exactly how long you can keep each type of wine after opening, along with expert tips to extend their shelf life.
How Long Each Wine Type Lasts After Opening
The lifespan of an open bottle varies significantly depending on the wine's structure, alcohol content, and tannin levels. Denomme explains what you need to know about each type:
1. Sparkling Wine: 1–3 Days
Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava are the most delicate wines once opened. The moment you pop the cork, those signature bubbles begin escaping, and the wine starts losing its effervescence and flavor profile.
“Sparkling wines are under pressure, and once that seal is broken, carbon dioxide begins dissipating immediately,” explains Denomme.
“Even with a proper sparkling wine stopper (far more effective than a regular cork), you're looking at a maximum of three days before the wine goes flat and loses its character.”
For best results, invest in a sparkling wine stopper designed to maintain pressure, and keep the bottle refrigerated between pours.
2. Light White Wine & Rosé: 3–5 Days
Crisp, unoaked whites like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and most rosés fall into this category. These wines are designed to be fresh and bright, qualities that fade quickly once they are exposed to oxygen.
The key to preserving these wines is immediate refrigeration and a tight seal. Store them upright in the refrigerator, and ensure the cork or screw cap is secured properly after each pour.
Within this timeframe, you'll still enjoy the wine's intended flavors, though some of the vibrant fruitiness may soften by day four or five.
3. Full-Bodied White Wine: 3–5 Days
Chardonnay and other full-bodied whites, particularly those aged in oak, often hold up slightly better than their lighter counterparts. The richer texture and oak influence provide some protection against oxidation.
“Oaked whites have more complexity and structure, which gives them a bit more staying power,” notes Denomme.
“You might even find that some oaked Chardonnays taste better on day two or three as they open up, but beyond five days, you're pushing your luck.”
4. Light Red Wine: 3–5 Days
Light reds like Pinot Noir, Gamay, and some Grenache blends are fruit-forward and relatively low in tannins, which means they oxidize faster than their bolder relatives.
While it’s common for people to assume red wine can sit out at room temperature, refrigeration actually slows the oxidation process significantly.
Cork the bottle immediately after pouring and store it in a cool place, or even in the refrigerator. Yes, you'll want to let it warm up slightly before serving, but the cooler temperature will preserve the wine's integrity much better than leaving it on the counter.
5. Full-Bodied Red Wine: 4–6 Days
Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec, and other full-bodied reds are the champions of longevity among table wines. Their higher tannin content acts as a natural preservative, slowing down oxidation and keeping the wine drinkable for up to six days.
“Tannins are essentially a barrier against oxygen,” Denomme explains. “That's why a big, bold Cabernet can sit for nearly a week and still taste good, while a delicate Pinot Noir might start declining after three days.”
Even with these heartier wines, proper storage matters. Re-cork immediately and store upright in a cool, dark place.
6. Fortified Wines: 2–4 Weeks
Port, Sherry, Madeira, and other fortified wines are the exception to every rule. Thanks to their higher alcohol content (typically 17-20% ABV compared to 12-15% for table wines), they're remarkably resilient once opened.
“The extra alcohol acts as a preservative, which is why fortified wines were originally created for long sea voyages,” says Denomme. “
You can enjoy these wines over several weeks without worrying about significant degradation, though lighter styles like Fino Sherry should be consumed within a week or two.”
Store fortified wines in a cool place with the cap tightly sealed, and they'll reward your patience.
Robb Denomme, finished by saying: “The best way to extend any wine's lifespan is to minimise oxygen exposure. Cooler temperatures slow oxidation dramatically, which is why refrigerating all wines, even reds, makes such a difference. You can always bring a red back to room temperature before serving.
“As for knowing when wine has turned, trust your nose. If it smells like vinegar, wet cardboard, or nail polish remover, it's time to pour it out. Wine should smell inviting, not sharp or unpleasant. When in doubt, a small taste will confirm whether it's still enjoyable.”
To learn more about wines, wine cellars and the services that Genuwine Cellars offers please visit them at https://www.genuwinecellars.com.
Award-Winning British Hummus Brand Launches Innovative, Functional Collection
ChicP’s launch of their exciting new range of ‘functional’ hummus puts the brand in the lead as the only functional premium hummus brand in the UK, delivering on quality and taste.
ChicP saw a gap in the market for a functional hummus that improves gut-health, provides high levels of fibre and enhances flavour.
The range uses Aquafaba (the by-product of chickpea water) rather than water to prevent waste and increase fibre and protein content.
The use of Extra Virgin Olive Oil instead of rapeseed oil, the high plant and fibre content, all contribute to a new high quality product that greatly enhances gut-health.
Available at leading stores including Ocado, Wholefoods, Planet Organic, Midcounties Co-op, Booths, Abel & Cole, Selfridges, and Independents/Farmshops across the country, ChicP is leading the expansion of the hummus category.
Hannah McCollum, Founder of ChicP, told That's Food and Drink: "We created this functional range to enable consumers to choose healthier eating habits without compromising on flavour or convenience.
"Our hummus is a great addition to salads, roasted vegetables, meat and pasta dishes, as well as a much-loved dip. We've pushed the boundaries, offering targeted benefits for gut health support and increased plant diversity, redefining how hummus fits into a truly balanced and delicious lifestyle.”
ChicP is launching five distinct new flavours:
• Velvet Good Gut Hummus, a smooth, nourishing hummus that includes Aquamin, a natural, seaweed-derived source of calcium. Calcium contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes, helping the breakdown of food molecules for efficient mineral absorption. This can have a prebiotic-like effect on gut bacteria to enhance beneficial microorganisms, boosting immunity, energy and metabolism. It also offers 4 Plant Points. A delicious, pure health bomb!
• Velvet Green Queen Hummus, a vibrant, antioxidant rich, Green Goddess-style hummus, packed with green peas, spinach, parsley, and basil. Delivering 6 plant points per pot, high in fibre and helping boost gut-friendly bacteria. An overall delicious herby hit.
• Velvet Beetroot & Horseradish Hummus, ChicP’s bold, vibrant hummus, offering 6 Plant Points, a source of protein and high in fibre. It’s a unique earthy-sweet flavour with a warming horseradish kick.
• Velvet Hummus: High in Fibre, a Great Taste Award winner, renowned for its outstanding flavour and creamy consistency. Best-tasting velvety smooth hummus on the market.
• Indulgent Velvet Truffle Hummus, created in collaboration with The Truffle Hunter, delivers deep savoury notes and 4 Plant Points. A sensational hummus with a wide range of admirers, this flavour is sublime.
ChicP is an award-winning British hummus brand with clean, transparent ingredients at its core. The company is B Corp Certified, and a founding member of Buy Women Built. It is an advanced product, pioneering gut and health functionality within the dip category, and acting as a true retail partner in category growth. Bringing superb taste and the hugely beneficial health benefits of aquafaba and plant proteins, ChicP is expanding how and when hummus is eaten.
The range will retail at £2.50 RRP per 150g chilled hummus pot. Truffle at £2.75.
Award-Winning Hackstons Celebrates International Women’s Day with a Curated Collection Honouring Female Pioneers in Wine and Whisky
Renowned for transforming premium drinks retail and tangible asset ownership, Hackstons continues to champion excellence, craftsmanship, and leadership across the industry.
This International Women’s Day on Sunday March 8, the Knightsbridge flagship turns the spotlight toward five remarkable female winemakers and master blenders whose expertise, innovation, and dedication define some of the world’s most revered bottles.
Hackstons’ latest curation celebrates both heritage and progress, showcasing wines and whiskies crafted by women at the very pinnacle of their fields.
Each bottle has been carefully selected not only for its exceptional quality and collectability, but for the story of talent, determination, and artistry behind it.
From England’s most decorated sparkling winemaker to the first woman to ever hold the title of Maître de Caves at Krug, the collection spans iconic Champagne houses, historic Scotch distilleries, and one of Australia’s most celebrated wineries.
The result? A a line-up that reflects the global influence and growing leadership of women across the drinks industry.
At the heart of the selection is the 2017 Nyetimber Blanc de Blancs (£42.40), crafted under the guidance of Cherie Spriggs, who has led winemaking at Nyetimber since 2007.
Produced using estate-grown Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier and made in the traditional method, the wine displays a pale gold hue with a fine mousse, layered with lemon curd, greengage, clotted cream and flinty minerality, finishing long and complex with a touch of salinity. Spriggs made history as the first non-Champagne winemaker to win Sparkling Winemaker of the Year at the International Wine Challenge, later securing the title for a second time.
Joining the line-up is Krug Grande Cuvée 172ème Edition (£240), overseen by Julie Cavil, who in 2020 became the first woman at Krug to hold the title of Maître de Caves. Delicate yet intense, the Champagne reveals white fruits and citrus with characteristic lemony freshness, white flowers and violet, finishing with subtle eucalyptus and menthol nuances.
From the Scottish Highlands, Royal Brackla 21 Year Old (£225) showcases the work of Stephanie Macleod, who in 2019 became the first woman to win the International Whisky Competition’s Master Blender of the Year award, an accolade she went on to win five more consecutive times. Finished in Oloroso, Palo Cortado and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, this refined single malt offers syrupy toffee, summer berries warmed by cinnamon and muscovado sugar, embodying both richness and elegance.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label (£225), crafted under the direction of Dr Emma Walker, reflects a new chapter for the iconic Scotch house. Leading a team of 12 expert whisky makers, Walker hand-selects rare casks from across Scotland, including stocks from ghost distilleries, to create a layered blend of hazelnut, citrus, vanilla and honey that unfolds into a long, smoky finish maintaining the brand’s renowned character while heralding an innovative era.
Completing the collection is the 2019 Penfolds Grange (£499), shaped in part by senior winemaker Stephanie Dutton, whose career at Penfolds has spanned continents since joining in 20wine07. Deep, rich Shiraz fruit meets mineral nuance, fine tannins and balancing acidity, delivering a wine of intensity and precision.
This International Women’s Day curation reflects the same philosophy that earned Hackstons its industry acclaim of uncompromising quality, expert guidance, and an experience that goes far beyond the bottle.
Hackstons founder Alphie Valentine told That's Food and Drink: “Our International Women’s Day selection celebrates the extraordinary women redefining the world of fine wine and whisky. Each bottle tells a story of expertise, resilience and innovation and we’re proud to showcase their achievements at our Knightsbridge flagship.”
The Newcomer of the Year award was presented at a gala ceremony on 3 February 2026 at The Dorchester, attended by leading figures from across the drinks, luxury, and retail industries.
For more information about Hackstons, its Knightsbridge flagship store, or to explore the International Women’s Day selection, visit www.hackstons.com.
Founded in 2021, Hackstons is redefining the luxury tangible goods market through curated collections of rare whiskies, fine wines, and exclusive spirits.
With a pioneering focus on cask whisky ownership, Hackstons enables clients to explore premium drinks as both an exceptional experience and a long-term asset. Its end-to-end services span acquisition, storage, bottling, and resale.
In August 2024, Hackstons opened its flagship retail experience in Knightsbridge, London, delivering expert guidance, private tastings, and tailored service. In 2026, Hackstons was crowned Newcomer of the Year at the Drinks Retailing Awards marking a major milestone in its rapid ascent and setting a new benchmark for luxury drinks retail.
Tracklements New Special Edition Vegan and Gluten Free Sweet Carrot and Pink Peppercorn Relish
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Tracklements NEW Special Edition Sweet Carrot & Pink Peppercorn Relish is a clever twist on a traditional Bengal pickle. Made with naturally sweet, earthy carrots, Bramley apples , garlic, ginger, coriander seeds, pink peppercorns and a whisper of chilli , it delivers a sumptuous sweetness, mildly peppery warmth and satisfying crunch in every mouthful.
Vegan and gluten -free, this vibrant condiment brings sweet, tangy and subtly spiced flavour to rice, poppadoms, dal and curries, from an aromatic lamb Rogan Josh to a spicy, tomato -based veggie Madras.
It’s also a revelation beyond Indian dishes . Try it in a freshly made Wensleydale baguette, alongside grilled meats or burgers, as a standout addition to a cheeseboard or a pork pie - just a spoonful wakes up any meal.
Tracklements NEW Special Edition Sweet Carrot & Pink Peppercorn Relish, RRP £ 3.95 for 200 g, is available from fine food delis and farm shops
nationwide and online at www.tracklements.co.uk
@tracklements
That's Green: The Name's Changed But the Aim is the Same. Open C...
That's Green: The Name's Changed But the Aim is the Same. Open C...: The UK animal charity Open Cages has rebranded to Anima , reflecting its global identity as Anima International . The change comes as Anima ...
Monday, 2 March 2026
Great British Food Awards 2026 Opening Soon
What are the Great British Food Awards?
The Great British Food Awards celebrate the finest food and drink products across the entire UK. These awards are designed to honour producers, growers and artisans who excel in crafting exceptional products, showcasing the best of British cuisine.
Once a product is entered, it is evaluated based on criteria specific to its category, including ingredients and overall look and taste. Shortlisted entries are then reviewed by our panel of expert judges who select the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners.
Some of the key features of the awards include:
Their esteemed judging panel: Products are judged by a panel of top chefs, food critics and experts, ensuring a high standard of evaluation.
Their huge range of categories: These cover a wide range of food and drink categories, including baked goods, meats, cheeses, beverages and more.
The unrivalled coverage winners receive: Winners receive significant exposure, boosting their reputation and helping them stand out in the competitive market. This includes print, digital and social coverage.
Unlimited use of award badges: Winning entrants will receive an awards badge and logo which can be included on product packaging, marketing materials and social media free of charge and for an unlimited amount of time.
The Great British Food Awards are a prestigious platform for showcasing talent and quality in the UK's thriving food and drink industry, making them a benchmark for excellence and our awards logo has become a recognised seal of approval among consumers.
Put Your Products in the Spotlight
These awards are ideal for brands seeking to gain industry recognition and showcase their dedication to the food and drink industry, and there are many benefits to be had from being involved.
Statistics show that buyers trust accolades and awards, and winning entrants will receive an awards badge and logo which can be included on product packaging, marketing materials and social media free of charge. (As a consumer I love to see Great British Food Awards logos on food and drink products.)
Shortlisted entrants also have the opportunity to have their products tried and tasted by some of the biggest names in the industry (including the likes of renowned chefs such as Raymond Blanc and Michel Roux Jr) and Gold winners receive detailed feedback from the judges.
On top of this, Gold winners will gain national coverage in Great British Food magazine and across our social platforms, and all winners will be featured online.
Categories
Baking & Puddings
Cheese
Cheese & Dairy
Dairy
Drinks (Alcohol)
Confectionery
Drinks (Soft & Brewed)
Health & Wellbeing
Vinegars, Oils & Dressings
Christmas Party
Low or Zero Alcohol Spirits/Beers/Wines
Kitchen Staples
Meat & Fish
Regional Winners
Snacks & Confectionery
Speciality
2026 key dates coming soon, so keep an eye open for them here at That's Food and Drink!
For more info head to https://greatbritishfoodawards.com
Tom Parker Creamery's Guide to Unhomogenised Whole Milk: The Least Processed Milk on Supermarket Shelves
If you're looking to get back to basics with your food choices, Tom Parker Creamery is leading the way with its Unhomogenised Whole Milk. Richly textured, creamy and minimally processed, it's milk very close to its natural state, just one step away from raw milk and much nearer to how it comes from the cow.
Produced using milk from free-range West Country farms within 40 miles of the Somerset creamery and bottled in traditional glass, it's a great option for anyone who wants something more natural and less processed than typical supermarket milk. Available in Tesco and Ocado, it's quietly growing in popularity, as more people look to dial back processing in their diets.
But what does unhomogenised mean and is it worth the switch? With so many options lining the supermarket dairy aisle, choosing the right milk can feel surprisingly complicated, especially for busy shoppers short on time.
We asked independent Clinical Nutritionist Eva Humphries MSc, DipION, mBANT, CNHC for the scoop on unhomogenised milk:
What is homogenisation?
“Homogenisation is a mechanical process where milk is forced through tiny nozzles at high pressure to break fat globules into very small, uniform particles. This stops the cream from rising and gives supermarket milk that consistent, smooth texture.”
What is unhomogenised whole milk?
“Unhomogenised milk has not been mechanically altered. The fat globules remain their natural size, so the cream rises to the top, a sign the milk is closer to its original state.”
Why do many people prefer unhomogenised whole milk? What are the benefits?
“The taste and texture of unhomogenised milk can be a real advantage. Despite having the same nutritional value as homogenised milk, the larger fat droplets in unhomogenised milk create a luxurious texture. There isn't any more fat present, we just perceive it to be creamier. Then there is that wonderful, sweet layer of cream that rises to the top. Pure nostalgia.
“Lastly, based on the available evidence, unhomogenised milk can be perceived to be more filling. The larger fat droplets may slow the rate of digestion, which in turn can support satiety.
“This is a real positive, especially since feeling full and satisfied from food is linked with a healthier body weight.”
How does unhomogenised whole milk compare to other milk on the supermarket shelf?
“There are four broad categories of dairy milk available to consumers: raw, unhomogenised, homogenised and lower fat options.
“Raw milk is fully unprocessed; however, under existing regulations, it can only be sold at farm gates. This leaves unhomogenised whole milk as the least processed milk found in supermarkets.
“Here is an overview of the different types of milk available from supermarket shelves:
Unhomogenised whole milk – heat-treated (pasteurised) to kill pathogens. Unhomogenised to leave the natural fat in its natural state.
Homogenised whole milk – pasteurised to kill pathogens and homogenised to break down and disperse the fat globules.
Semi-skimmed milk – pasteurised, homogenised and some of the fat has been removed
Skimmed milk - pasteurised, homogenised and most of the fat has been removed”
What are the advantages of whole milk?
“Succinctly, whole milk contains the most nutrients from the full milk range. The fat within whole milk holds on to fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin A, D, E and K and contains other nutrients such as choline.
“These essential nutrients are usually greatly reduced when the fat is removed during the skimming process.
“Furthermore, whole milk is better at supporting satiety than reduced-fat versions. The extra fat may be helpful to keep blood sugar balanced, keeping us fuller for longer and reducing overeating.”
Growth in consumer demand for natural whole milk
According to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), in an environment increasingly wary of UPFs, whole milk is holding its own. The category experienced a 2.9% rise in volume over the past year, now accounting for 31% of cow's milk sales.
Mintel also reports that cow's milk is often seen as minimally processed, with 63% of consumers prioritising its naturalness over its nutritional content, making it a preferred choice amid the spotlight on UPFs (Mintel, Dairy and Dairy Alternative Drinks, Milk and cream, 2024).
FACTFILE:
Tom Parker began farming in 1921 with 14 cows, delivering milk locally by horse and cart. Known for his dedication to hard work and quality, his legacy lives on through Tom Parker Creamery today; to deliver high-quality, natural dairy products to many.
Today, based in Wincanton in Somerset, Tom Parker Creamery uses free-range British milk from mixed breed grass-fed herds within 40 miles of the dairy and the finest natural ingredients, partnering with small British family farms to ensure the best possible conditions for their cows. Glass bottles and paper labels reflect a commitment to sustainability and evoke the tradition of Tom Parker's original milk deliveries.
Find out more at https://www.tomparkercreamery.com.
Eva Humphries MSc, DipION, mBANT, CNHC is a clinical nutritionist, cookery demonstrator and speaker known for blending nutrition science with a refreshingly relaxed approach to food.
Eva has spent a decade helping individuals feel good via clever nutrition by providing evidence-based insights, practical takeaways and a reassuring reminder that eating well should be enjoyable.
Follow Eva on Instagram @wholefoodwarrior.
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