Food and drink news for the discerning consumer
Friday, 13 March 2026
That's Green: Don’t Be a Sinner, Be a Binner!
That's Green: Don’t Be a Sinner, Be a Binner!: A campaign from That’s Green Litter is one of the simplest environmental problems to solve, yet it continues to spoil our streets, parks, a...
That's Health: Symprove: A Vegan-Friendly Way to Support Your Gut...
That's Health: Symprove: A Vegan-Friendly Way to Support Your Gut...: A look at Symprove, the vegan-friendly probiotic supplement designed to support gut health and help maintain a balanced microbiome. In recen...
Wetherspoon Spring Real Ale Festival 2026: New Beers to Try Across the UK
Every spring, pubs across the UK host one of the most anticipated events in the beer calendar: the J D Wetherspoon Spring Real Ale Festival.
For fans of traditional cask ale, it’s a fantastic opportunity to explore new flavours, discover breweries from around the world, and enjoy a good pint at an affordable price.
Running across hundreds of Wetherspoon pubs nationwide, the Spring Real Ale Festival 2026 brings together around 30 specially selected real ales, many brewed exclusively for the event.
For readers of That’s Food and Drink, this festival is a great reminder that the UK’s pub culture continues to celebrate craft, variety, and experimentation in brewing.
A Festival of Discovery
One of the most exciting things about the festival is the variety of beers available. Rather than every pub offering the same selection at the same time, Wetherspoon rotates the ales across its pubs during the festival.
That means each visit can bring something new.
In fact, most of the beers featured this year are completely new to Wetherspoon pubs, giving regular drinkers and ale enthusiasts the chance to try something they may never have encountered before.
The selection includes a broad spectrum of beer styles, including:
Classic British bitters
Golden ales
Pale ales
Hop-forward IPAs
International collaboration brews
For real-ale lovers, this diversity is part of what makes the festival such a highlight of the pub calendar.
International Brewing Talent
Although real ale is deeply rooted in British brewing tradition, the festival also showcases beers created in partnership with international brewers.
This year’s event includes breweries from countries such as:
Brazil
Italy
Spain
The United States
Mexico
In fact, the 2026 festival marks the first time a Mexican real ale has been featured in the event’s history.
These global influences bring fresh styles and ingredients into the mix, creating beers that combine traditional British cask techniques with international brewing ideas.
Why Real Ale Still Matters
Real ale remains an important part of British pub heritage. Unlike many modern beers, it is naturally conditioned in the cask and served without additional carbonation. This gives it a distinctive character, softer mouthfeel, and complex flavour profile.
Festivals like this help keep that tradition alive while also encouraging experimentation and creativity from brewers.
For pub-goers, it’s also a chance to slow down and enjoy beer as it was originally intended, hand-pulled, properly conditioned, and served fresh from the cask.
A Perfect Pub Excuse
The Wetherspoon Spring Real Ale Festival is about more than just beer. It’s also about bringing people together in pubs, sharing recommendations, comparing tasting notes, and enjoying the social atmosphere that British pubs are famous for.
Whether you’re a seasoned real-ale enthusiast or simply curious to try something new, the festival offers a relaxed way to explore the ever-growing world of craft and cask brewing.
So next time you pass a Wetherspoon pub during the festival, take a look at the pumps, you might just find a new favourite pint waiting for you.
And don't forget, during the beer festival you can order a third of a pint of three festival ales for the price of one pint.
https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/wetherspoon-spring-beer-festival-2026
Wednesday, 11 March 2026
Tea for two… and one for the dog! Charity hosts dog-friendly afternoon tea to support life-changing assistance dogs
Canine Partners, the UK charity that trains assistance dogs for adults with physical disabilities, is hosting a Dog Friendly Afternoon Tea at its National Training Centre near Loughborough on Sunday 22 March, from 3pm to 5pm.
Guests will enjoy a traditional afternoon tea of sandwiches, scones and cakes, while their four-legged friends can tuck into their own specially prepared dog-friendly treats. For pups who prefer to stay at home, dog treat takeaway boxes will also be available, the ultimate doggy bag.
Founded in 1990, Canine Partners trains highly skilled assistance dogs that help adults living with physical disabilities live more independently. These remarkable dogs can support with everyday tasks such as opening doors, picking up dropped items, loading washing machines and helping with dressing.
It costs around £50,000 to train each assistance dog, and the charity receives no government funding, relying entirely on donations and fundraising to continue its vital work. With over 90 people currently waiting for an assistance dog, support from events like this is more vital than ever.
Andy has lived with a spinal cord injury for over 30 years following a car accident and was partnered with Laila, a black Labrador cross Golden Retriever, in 2024. Since then, his life has been transformed.
“I used to be stuck at home and miserable, but Laila has given me my life back,” said Andy. “She makes everyday life easier and gives me the confidence to leave the house and see people. I feel like a completely new person and cannot imagine life without her – she is my best friend.”
Rebecca Middleton, Community Fundraising Officer at Canine Partners, said: “Our Dog Friendly Afternoon Tea is a fun and unique way to support our work. It’s not every day dogs get to enjoy their own afternoon tea! Every ticket sold helps us train more incredible assistance dogs and create more incredible partnerships like Andy and Laila’s.”
Adults - £15
Children - £7
Dog - £5
Spaces are limited, so advance booking is essential. Visit caninepartners.org.uk/events to secure your place.
Why No One Should Feel Ashamed to Use a Foodbank During the Cost-of-Living Crisis
Everyday essentials such as bread, milk, fresh vegetables and cooking oil now cost far more than they did only a short time ago.
In this climate, foodbanks have become a lifeline for millions of people. Yet despite their vital role, many who need help still hesitate to reach out because of shame or embarrassment.
The truth is, needing help with food is not a personal failure. It is often the result of circumstances far beyond anyone’s control.
Inflation has outpaced wages in many sectors, while rising energy bills, rent increases and higher transport costs have left households with less disposable income.
A sudden change in circumstances, such as illness, redundancy, relationship breakdown, or unexpected expenses, can quickly push even financially careful families into difficulty. Many people who find themselves turning to foodbanks have previously been stable and secure.
Foodbanks exist precisely because communities recognise that hardship can affect anyone.
Across towns and cities, volunteers work tirelessly to collect donations, sort supplies and distribute parcels with dignity and compassion. Churches, charities, community groups and local businesses contribute food, money and time because they understand that supporting neighbours in need strengthens society as a whole.
Importantly, foodbanks are not only about food. Many also provide advice services, signposting to debt support, benefits guidance, employment assistance, cooking lessons, coffee shops and mental health resources.
For some people, a visit to a foodbank can be the first step towards regaining stability after a difficult period.
Shame often stops people from seeking help early. Instead, individuals may skip meals, go without heating, or struggle silently while stress builds. This can harm both physical health and emotional wellbeing. Reaching out sooner allows people to access support before problems become overwhelming.
It is also worth remembering many of those who volunteer or donate to foodbanks have themselves needed help in the past. Communities thrive when support flows both ways, sometimes we give, sometimes we receive.
Foodbanks are a reflection of compassion, not failure.
If you or someone you know is struggling to afford groceries, seeking help is an act of strength, not weakness. Everyone deserves access to nourishing food, dignity and support during difficult times.
In a period of high food price inflation and economic uncertainty, reaching out to a foodbank should be seen for what it truly is: a practical step towards getting through a tough moment with the help of a caring community.
To find your nearest foodbanks please visit these resources:-
https://www.trussell.org.uk/emergency-food/find-a-foodbank
https://foodcycle.org.uk/food-banks
Monday, 9 March 2026
Healthy eating still out of reach for many Britons as industry says cost remains biggest barrier
Over half of food and drink leaders say value for money will drive consumer choices over the next three years.
Affordability remains the single biggest barrier preventing UK consumers from making consistently healthier food choices, according to a new survey of senior figures across the food and drink industry.
Over 150 senior decision-makers across food & drink retail, wholesale, hospitality and more took part in the poll conducted by trade show IFE, exploring the theme of ‘Feeding the Future’.
Nearly half (48%) said cost and affordability are the main obstacles stopping people from eating more healthily. More than half (56%) said clear value for money will be the most influential factor shaping what shoppers buy over the next three years.
The findings suggest, despite growing public debate around ultra-processed foods, weight-loss medications and protein trends, household budgets continue to dominate decision-making.
Value for money outweighs health and sustainability claims
When asked which attribute will most influence purchasing in a cost-conscious market, value for money (56%) ranked far ahead of functional benefits such as gut health or added protein (20%), strong health credentials (14%), premium quality and experience (9%), and sustainability and environmental impact (2%).
GLP-1 medications expected to drive gradual, not dramatic, change
The survey also explored how some of the most talked-about food trends are expected to evolve. While a third (34%) of respondents believe GLP-1 weight-loss medications will have a noticeable but limited impact on the market, only 17% think they will fundamentally reshape food and drink. Nearly a quarter (23%) expect significant reformulation across certain categories, suggesting gradual adjustment rather than dramatic disruption.
Ultra-processed foods debate set to influence branding and reformulation
Concern around ultra-processed foods is also expected to persist. More than a third (37%) believe the issue will increasingly influence how brands communicate with consumers, while 29% expect it to significantly reshape product development. Nearly one in five (18%) anticipate growing regulatory pressure.
Wholefood plant protein predicted to lead growth
When it comes to protein, respondents predicted growth will come primarily from wholefood plant sources such as beans, pulses and grains (38%), ahead of traditional animal protein innovation (25%). Processed plant-based alternatives were selected by 14% of respondents.
Olivia Andrews, Co-Founder of Dip & Dollop told That's Food and Drink: “Consumers are becoming more value conscious, more sceptical of ultra-processed foods, and more focused on real satiety and nutrient density. Brands that deliver simple ingredients, wholefood functionality and clear value for money will outperform those relying on hype.”
Amy Wilkinson, Founder of Fearless Foodies added: “Consumers want healthier, more transparent food choices, but without paying more. Responding to those conflicting pressures needs people with the right skill sets to drive change across the industry. Feeding the Future isn’t just about what we make – it’s about having the right people, with the right skills in place to make that change happen.”
Panos Katsitaris, Managing Director of MediTaste said: "Over the next three years, the UK market won't will be disrupted by a single mega-trend, but reshaped by the interaction of affordability, functional health, and protein evolution.
"GLP-1 adoption will accelerate reformulation rather than reduce consumption, while ultra-processed food debates will influence positioning more than regulation. The real growth opportunity lies in hybrid protein models and credible value propositions that balance health, sustainability and price discipline.”
Rupert Ashby, CEO of the British Food Federation added: “While of course it’s true that shoppers on a lower budget have less choice when it comes to buying food, it’s important that we keep pushing the message that nutritious doesn’t have to mean expensive.
“For example, buying frozen fruit and vegetables can be a very affordable way of putting healthy meals on the table. Our research shows that a family of four looking to eat five portions of fruit and vegetables per day could save more than £1100 per year by choosing frozen products, and the choice has grown rapidly in recent years.
“Freezing locks in nutrients without the need for preservatives, extends shelf life and significantly reduces food waste, all of which help households manage tight budgets.
“Convenience also matters. People are time poor, and the reality is that easy access often drives choice. This is where retailers and manufacturers have a role to play. By making healthier options more visible, more accessible and easier to navigate in store – especially for younger shoppers and busy families, we can support better decisions without asking consumers to compromise on cost, taste or practicality.”
Federico Dellafiore, Event Director at IFE, said: “There is huge innovation happening across food and drink, but affordability remains central to consumer behaviour. Brands are responding to a market where shoppers are more value conscious, more questioning of ingredients and more focused on getting genuine nutritional benefit from what they buy. The challenge for the industry is balancing health, transparency and sustainability with price sensitivity.”
The research was conducted ahead of trade event IFE 2026, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week from 30 March to 01 April at Excel London, where food and drink brands, retailers and manufacturers will come together to explore the trends shaping what could appear on supermarket shelves in the years ahead.
The Gift That Keeps On Growing
The Hampshire vineyard, known for its regeneratively grown English sparkling wines, has joined forces with Stem & Green, the natural flower farm, to offer something truly special for mothers.
Customers purchasing either Candover Brook Brut or Rosé at participating stockists or online will receive a packet of locally grown, hand-picked Sweet Rocket seeds (Hesperis Matronalis), a flower whose very name means “Evening of the Mother.” Named for the beautiful scent it releases at dusk, Sweet Rocket is a fitting symbol for the enduring warmth of the mothers in our lives.
Amanda Sinclair, Head of Sales & Marketing at Candover Brook, told That's Food and Drink: “Working with Stem & Green has been a real joy. We share the same values, a love of the land, a commitment to regenerative growing, and a belief that the best gifts are ones that keep on giving.
"After the wonderful response to our recent Valentine's collaboration, it felt completely natural to build on that and create something equally meaningful for Mothering Sunday.”
The Sweet Rocket seeds, grown by Stem & Green at their Hampshire farm, will bloom year after year, creating a lasting reminder of a special celebration, long after the last glass has been poured.
The collaboration reflects a growing movement among Hampshire producers to work together, champion local craftsmanship, and offer consumers something rooted in place and purpose. Both businesses are committed to regenerative practices that care for the soil, the seasons, and the communities around them.
You can pick up this unique pairing at the following shops and venues, whilst stocks last: Auriol Wines - Hartley Wintney, Candover Valley Stores - Preston Candover, Caviste - Hook, Caviste - Overton, Kingsgate Provisions - Winchester, The Naked Grape - Alresford, The Wine Yard - Farnham and Wellington Farm Shop – Hook.
You can also purchase online for direct delivery at www.candoverbrook.co.uk.
Saturday, 7 March 2026
Why the UK Should Embrace Japanese White Day on 14 March
But in Japan, the story doesn’t end there. Exactly one month later, on 14 March, people celebrate White Day, a charming tradition that could easily find a place in British culture as well.
White Day began in Japan in the late 1970s as a response to Valentine’s Day traditions there. In Japan, it is customary for women to give chocolates to men on 14 February.
These gifts can range from honmei choco (romantic chocolates for a partner or crush) to giri choco (friendly or obligation chocolates for colleagues and friends).
Then, on White Day, the men return the favour by giving gifts back to the women who gave them chocolates.
The gifts traditionally include white chocolate, marshmallows, biscuits, jewellery, or other thoughtful presents. Importantly, the idea is that the return gift should show appreciation and effort, often considered to be worth more than the original gift.
It’s a sweet, thoughtful tradition that balances the Valentine’s exchange and adds another moment of kindness to the calendar. So why not bring White Day to the UK?
For British retailers, cafés, and independent shops, White Day presents a wonderful opportunity. March can be a relatively quiet period after Valentine’s Day and before Easter. Introducing White Day promotions—whether themed desserts, chocolate gift boxes, or small token presents, could provide a welcome mid-March boost for businesses.
From a cultural perspective, White Day also encourages gratitude and reciprocity. Valentine’s Day often focuses on grand romantic gestures, but White Day can feel a little more playful and inclusive. It can be about saying thank you to someone who showed kindness, affection, or friendship a month earlier.
The UK has a long tradition of adopting and adapting international celebrations. Think about how Halloween, originally rooted in Celtic traditions but popularised through American culture, became a major annual event here? Similarly, celebrations such as Black Friday have quickly found their place in the British retail calendar.
White Day could follow a similar path, starting as a niche celebration among fans of Japanese culture, anime, and international traditions, before gradually gaining wider popularity.
With the UK’s growing appreciation of Japanese food, culture, and seasonal traditions, now may be the perfect time to introduce White Day to a broader audience.
So this 14 March, why not try celebrating White Day yourself? If someone gave you a Valentine’s treat last month, return the kindness with a thoughtful gift, a handwritten note, or a box of chocolates.
Sometimes the nicest traditions are the ones that simply encourage us to say “thank you.”
Celebrate National Meatball Day with Comfort, Creativity, and Classic Flavour
Whether served in a rich tomato sauce, tucked into a crusty sub roll, or paired with creamy mashed potatoes, meatballs have a way of bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table.
Despite their simplicity, meatballs are a culinary favourite across the globe.
From Italian kitchens to Swedish cafés and Middle Eastern grills, nearly every food culture has its own take on the dish.
That makes National Meatball Day the perfect excuse to explore different flavours while enjoying a classic comfort food.
A Dish with Global Roots
The idea of rolling minced meat into small balls and cooking it is surprisingly ancient. Variations can be found throughout history and across continents. In Italy, meatballs (polpette) are often served in tomato sauce with pasta. Sweden famously pairs them with creamy gravy, lingonberry jam, and potatoes. Meanwhile, Middle Eastern cuisine features spiced meatballs such as kofta, often grilled or served with flatbread.
What these dishes share is their simplicity: minced meat, herbs, seasoning, and a cooking method that transforms basic ingredients into something rich and satisfying.
Why Meatballs Are So Popular
One reason meatballs remain a favourite is their flexibility. They can be made from beef, pork, lamb, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives. Breadcrumbs, herbs, garlic, onion, and spices can all be adjusted to suit different tastes and traditions.
They also work in a variety of dishes:
Classic spaghetti and meatballs
Meatball subs with melted cheese
Swedish-style meatballs with gravy
Mediterranean meatballs with herbs and yoghurt
Party meatballs served as appetisers
Because they freeze well, meatballs are also a practical option for batch cooking. Make a large tray, freeze portions, and enjoy quick meals later in the week.
A Simple Homemade Meatball Recipe
If you’d like to celebrate National Meatball Day at home, try this easy recipe.
Ingredients
500g minced beef or pork
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
50g breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying
Method
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until evenly blended.
Roll the mixture into golf-ball-sized portions.
Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Brown the meatballs on all sides until cooked through.
Serve with pasta and tomato sauce, or your favourite sides.
Making the Most of the Day
National Meatball Day is a fun opportunity to experiment in the kitchen. Try mixing different meats, adding spices from around the world, or even making vegetarian meatballs using lentils or mushrooms.
It’s also a great excuse for a family-style meal. A big bowl of pasta, a rich sauce, and a plate of freshly cooked meatballs can turn an ordinary evening into something special.
So whether you prefer them Italian-style, Swedish-inspired, or in a hearty sandwich, National Meatball Day is the perfect moment to celebrate one of the world’s most comforting dishes.
After all, few foods are as simple, or as satisfying, as a perfectly cooked meatball.
Friday, 6 March 2026
Scratch Cooking and the Joy of the “Smidgen Roast”
And yet, somehow, this is often when the best meals happen.
Across the UK, this improvisational style of cooking is affectionately known by many names, but one of the most charming is the “smidgen roast.”
It describes the art of making a satisfying meal from a smidgen of this and a smidgen of that, a handful of leftovers, half-used vegetables, a tin lurking at the back of the cupboard, or the final portion of something hiding in the freezer.
What Is Scratch Cooking?
Scratch cooking in this context doesn’t mean elaborate culinary techniques or spending hours in the kitchen. Instead, it’s about cooking creatively with what you already have, rather than following a strict recipe.
You might find:
A couple of potatoes
Half an onion
A stray carrot
A leftover chicken breast
A tin of beans
Some frozen peas
On their own they don’t look like much. But combined with a little oil, seasoning, and imagination, they can become a hearty traybake, a soup, a stir-fry, or even an improvised pie filling.
The Magic of the Smidgen Roast
The “smidgen roast” is less a formal dish and more a state of mind in the kitchen.
The principle is simple:
Raid the fridge, freezer and pantry.
Gather anything that needs using up.
Cook it together in a way that makes sense.
Often it ends up roasted in a tray, simmered into a stew, or tossed into a pan with herbs and seasoning. Root vegetables become crispy and caramelised.
Odd bits of meat or sausage bulk things out. Tins of tomatoes or beans provide a comforting base.
Some of the most memorable family meals are born this way.
Why It’s So Popular in the UK
There are several reasons this approach to cooking resonates so strongly in British kitchens.
1. Reducing food waste
With food prices rising, people are more conscious about using everything they buy. Scratch cooking ensures those lonely vegetables or leftovers don’t end up in the bin.
2. Budget-friendly meals
A smidgen roast is essentially a “use what you have” meal, making it perfect for stretching the weekly food shop.
3. Comfort food at its best
British cooking traditions have always celebrated hearty, practical meals, stews, casseroles, traybakes and soups. Scratch cooking fits perfectly within that tradition.
4. The joy of surprise
There’s a particular satisfaction when a meal thrown together from odds and ends turns out unexpectedly delicious.
Easy Smidgen Roast Ideas
If you want to embrace the spirit of scratch cooking, here are a few starting points:
The Everything Tray Roast
Chop potatoes, carrots, onions and any other vegetables you find. Add leftover sausages, chicken pieces, or even chickpeas. Toss with oil, salt, pepper and herbs, then roast until golden.
Pantry Pasta
Cook pasta and mix with sautéed garlic, tinned tomatoes, olives, frozen peas, and whatever protein is available — tuna, bacon, or leftover chicken.
Freezer Surprise Soup
Simmer frozen vegetables, stock, herbs and any leftover meat together. Blend if desired for a hearty soup.
Fridge Clear-Out Stir Fry
Thinly slice vegetables and fry quickly with soy sauce, garlic and ginger. Add noodles or rice.
The Kitchen Creativity We Should Celebrate
In an age of recipe apps, meal kits and social media cooking trends, scratch cooking reminds us of something important: good food doesn’t always start with a plan.
Sometimes it starts with a nearly empty fridge, a rummage through the cupboard, and the decision to simply make something work.
And when that spontaneous meal turns out brilliantly, you’ve created the perfect smidgen roast, proof that a little creativity in the kitchen can turn odds and ends into a proper feast.
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