Writer, Blogger, and Entrepreneur Stanislav Kondrashov Shares Top Expert Tips on How To Cook On A Wallet-Friendly Budget

Eating well on a budget just became a little easier with the latest article from acclaimed writer, blogger, and entrepreneur, Stanislav Kondrashov. In his insightful piece, "How To Cook On A Wallet-Friendly Budget," Kondrashov reveals practical tips, interesting meal ideas, and creative strategies to help individuals create delicious and nutritious meals without breaking the bank.

With rising food costs, many of us are struggling to balance their desire for tasty, healthy meals within the limitations of their budget. 

But Kondrashov's article offers a wealth of expert advice to help readers overcome these challenges and savour their culinary experiences without compromising their financial well-being at the same time.

Kondrashov starts by emphasising the importance of embracing plant-based protein sources to save money. By incorporating affordable and nutrient-packed ingredients like beans, lentils, chickpeas, and tofu, individuals can create satisfying dishes like bean chili, lentil soup, and tofu stir-fry that are  budget-friendly and also delicious.

Another key aspect highlighted in the article is the value of meal planning and smart shopping. Kondrashov recommends creating a weekly meal plan and shopping list, prioritising inexpensive ingredients and versatile staples. 

By comparing prices, bulk buying, and taking advantage of sales and discounts, readers can maximise their savings. Also, shopping seasonally for fruits and vegetables ensures affordability and enhanced flavours.

The article also emphasises the importance of reducing food waste and stretching the budget through repurposing leftovers. Kondrashov suggests transforming roasted vegetables into a hearty frittata, turning cooked grains into flavorful fried rice, or blending leftover soup into a creamy pasta sauce. These creative solutions not only reduce waste but also provide a chanceo to enjoy cost-effective meals.

For those with limited time, Kondrashov advises cooking in bulk and freezing extras. By preparing large quantities of budget-friendly meals like soup, stew, or casserole, you can save time and money. Freezing individual portions ensures a convenient solution for busy days when cooking from scratch isn't always possible.

But what's more, Kondrashov highlights the importance of having a well-stocked pantry. Investing in versatile and affordable staples such as rice, pasta, canned tomatoes, and dried spices allow for endless meal possibilities and ideas. These essential ingredients form the foundation of delicious and budget-friendly meals and dishes.

He encourages his readers to get creative with inexpensive ingredients and experiment with different cooking techniques and seasoning combinations. Kondrashov suggests that roasted root vegetables become caramelised and flavourful when cooked at high temperatures, and a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate a simple dish with a burst of acidity. Cooking on a budget should never mean sacrificing flavour or variety.

Also, Kondrashov advocates for homemade cooking, as they're often more cost-effective than buying pre-made or processed foods. Readers are inspired to learn how to make their own salad dressings, marinades, and sauces, which not only saves money but also provides healthier and customizable options. Taking on fun and budget-friendly cooking projects such as homemade bread, pizza dough, or pasta is also encouraged.

By implementing Kondrashov's expert tips and advice, individuals can embark on a culinary journey that balances taste, nutrition, and affordability. "How To Cook On A Wallet-Friendly Budget" offers readers practical insights, ensuring they can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals without emptying their wallets.

To learn more about Stanislav Kondrashov, visit his website: www.stanislavkondrashov.co.

Aldi can help you source your 4th of July Feasting

Aldi's new American snack range starts from just 99p.The range also includes cheeseburger crisps and New York cookie kits.

Aldi is celebrating all things American with the release of a special US-themed snack range ahead of 4th July. American snacks are a hit online, with #americansnacks amassing 147 million views on TikTok, and Aldi is making sure Brits don’t miss out on the action.

The new range includes a selection of savoury must haves and confectionary goods including a returning favourite Durkee Marshmallow Fluff (213g), available in original or strawberry flavour for just £1.99!

Shoppers can launch their day with the brand-new Birthday Cake Cereal (£1.99, 350g), available for £7 less than Tim Hortons Timbits Birthday Cake Cereal, or even S’mores Cereal (£1.99, 375g), with a crunchy, chocolate coated graham cracker exterior covering the soft marshmallow underneath, reminiscent of the favourite American treat.

Or customers can opt for a classic US-style breakfast with the new American Pancakes (£1.49, 6 pack) – top with crispy bacon and Specially Selected Maple Syrup (£3.99, 250ml) for an extra sweet finish.

For lovers of sweet treats, Aldi has launched a range of new cereal bars in three delicious popular US flavours – Caramelised Biscuit, Peanut Butter and Rocky Rainbow (£1.49, 120g). The New York Style Cookie Kit (£1.69, 300g) is the ultimate dessert, whether shoppers like them extra crunchy or gooey in the middle, these bake-at-home cookies can be eaten at whatever the desired texture.

From sweet to savoury, the new Specially Selected Hand Cooked Cheeseburger Crisps (£1.09, 150g) and Specially Selected Buffalo Wings Crisps (£1.09, 150g) are sure to go down a treat! Aldi’s new American range is available in stores and via Click & Collect from 29th June, while stocks last.

Co-op offers exclusive Members deal on wine range

Co-op is offering a discount across its wine range exclusively for members until 25 July inclusive. And there’s up to 300 bottles to choose from.

Co-op Members buying three bottles of wine will save a very helpful and handy £5 when swiping their membership card at the checkout. The deal is valid on a selection wines priced over £6 in England, and over £7 in Wales, and bottles can be mixed and matched as part of the offer.

The deal is available on promotional lines too, so there’s even bigger savings for Co-op Members to be found.

Co-op wine Members deal.

For example, Co-op Irresistible Explorers Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, which is currently on promotion to £9 in store until 25 July (RRP £10), can be picked up for the equivalent of £7.34^ a bottle as part of the “buy three save £5” deal.

Alternatively for a brilliant red that'll be perfect for season of BBQs, savvy members will be able to pick up three bottles of Trapiche Pure Malbec for the equivalent of just £5.84^ a bottle in store. The Argentinean Malbec is currently £7.50 for all customers until 25 July inclusive (RRP £8.50).

Sparkling wines are also included, and Corte Molino Prosecco will cost the equivalent of £6.34^ a bottle when purchasing as part of the exclusive membership deal. This Italian fizz has been reduced to £8 for all customers until 25 July inclusive (RRP £9).

And of course, all of Co-op’s premium own brand “Irresistible” wines are included in the offer too, including the retailer’s new Irresistible Courbe (RRP £10) from Switzerland. Recently added to the range, this light-bodied red is a great alternative for lovers of Pinot Noir and is best served slightly chilled. Great with cheese or red meat. Alternatively, for a great fizz, Co-op’s popular Irresistible Prosecco Rose (RRP £9) has notes of fresh strawberries, raspberries and cherries making it a great choice for those summery nights in.

Whilst the multi-buy offer isn’t available in Scotland stores, Scottish customers can enjoy exclusive discounts across a wide range of wines when swiping their Co-op Membership card. The discounts include:

La Vieille Ferme Rose 75cl – normally £9, down to £6.50 for members, and £7.50 for non-members (Scotland only)

Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc 75cl/Cabernet Sauvignon 75cl. Normally £7.75, down to £5.75 for members, and £6.75 for non-members (Scotland only)

Muriel Tempranillo Rioja 75cl – normally £7.75, down to £5.75 for members, and £6.75 for non-members (Scotland only)

Trapiche Pure Malbec 75cl – normally £8.50, down to £6.50 for members, and £7.50 for non-members (Scotland only)

The Ned Sauvignon Blanc 75cl – normally £10, down to £8 for members, and £9 for non-members (Scotland only)

Co-op Irresistible Explorers Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 75cl –– normally £10, down to £8 for members, and £9 for non-members (Scotland only)

Co-op Irresistible Casablanca Valley Pinot Noir 75cl – normally £8, down to £7 for members (Scotland only)

Co-op Irresistible Prosecco 75cl – normally £9, down to £8 for members (Scotland only)

To find out more information about how to become a member or details of the offer, customers can visit this site https://www.coop.co.uk/membership. Staff at your local branch can also help you.

T&C apply.

Asda launches new half price café meals for adults and extends kids eat for £1 offer to support hard-pressed families

From today, Friday 30th June, all Asda café adult main meals will be half price, beginning at £3.12 from 3pm onwards.

So a family of four can eat in Asda cafés from just £8.50.

To help customers tackle the cost-of-living crisis, Asda has announced that its hugely popular ‘Kids Eat for £1’ café meal deal will be extended until the end of the year and also Asda will launch half price adult main meals in its café’s from 3pm onwards.

Asda recently refreshed its Kids for £1 menu adding a more nutritionally balanced offering, including new vegan and healthy meal options. The extension will come as a welcomed boost to the many cash strapped families as the long summer school holidays approach. 

Last summer, over 80,000 meals a week were served across the summer holidays – peaking to over three times the normal levels on an average week.

Asda’s latest Income Tracker shows a decrease in disposable income has been particularly stark for many low-earning families, with 40% of UK households falling into negative income territory in May – meaning their take home pay doesn't cover spending on bills and essentials. The average shortfall for these households was a shocking £42.50 per week in May.

To help relieve some of the financial pressures for families, Asda are introducing half price adult main mains from 3pm until close from Friday 30th June - with the Kids £1 meals remaining in place until the end of the year.

A family of four can eat out as little as £8.50 with the adult menu including some popular favourites like Steak and Ale Pie, served with mash and peas (£3.25), Fish and Chips (£3.25) Chicken Tikka Masala (£3.25), Mac & Cheese (£3.12), Lasagne with Garlic Bread and Salad (£3.25), Scampi, Chips and Peas (£3.25) and Sweet Potato and Spinach curry (VE) (£3.12).

Asda cafés which have an express diner format will also offer a whole 16” pizza for just £4 from 3pm onwards from this Friday until the 4th September.

The supermarket launched the offer for kids under 16 to enjoy a hot meal in any of their 205 cafés in June 2022 and has now served a staggering 1,700,000 million meals to kids from its cafés all over the country. 

As an alternative to a hot meal, Asda cafés also offer a £1 kids cold pick and mix selection that includes a sandwich, drink and some fruit. The refreshed menu now includes new treats like a jelly pot with whole fruit pieces or a jelly squeeze pouch as an alternative to a pack of crisps.

Kris Comerford, Asda’s Chief Commercial Officer said; “We know when families are preparing for the school holidays it can often mean an additional strain on household budgets. Our kids £1 café meal deals continue to provide a lifeline to families as we’ve served over 1,700,000 million meals since its  launch. Now with the introduction of half price adult main mains in cafés from 3pm onwards, it means we can extend our support to the whole family in the coming weeks and across the summer holidays.”

During the summer holidays Asda will be working with leading and trusted educational resource experts Twinkl, to provide café activity packs that are jam packed with holiday fun, educational resources to help you keep children entertained over the summer break. These resources will be available in all Asda Cafés or from the stores Community Champion, whilst stocks last.

www.asda.com.

Sainsbury’s invests £15m on household staple price

Sainsbury’s is investing £15m to cut the price of cupboard staples like rice and pasta to assist customers with managing their budgets. 

It will also become the only supermarket to offer Freefrom pasta at the same price as standard pasta as part of these latest price cuts. 

This latest round of reductions is part of Sainsbury’s commitment to keep prices low on the high-volume products that make the most difference to its customers. Sainsbury’s will continue to make price cuts on popular essential products throughout the rest of the summer.

Sainsbury’s is also announcing that all by Sainsbury’s ‘happier and healthier’ whole chicken breast fillets will now be included in its Aldi Price Match for the first time ever. This follows the commitment in March 2023 that all by Sainsbury’s chickens will have 20% more space than the industry standard, meaning customers can be certain they'll be getting the best of both worlds. Keen prices on chicken, but with no compromising on chicken welfare.

Rhian Bartlett, Food Commercial Director at Sainsbury’s, said: “As the cost-of-living challenges continue, we remain dedicated to lowering prices on the essential products that make the biggest difference to our customers.”

“In the last two years we’ve invested £560 million in keeping prices low and more recently we’ve reduced the price of high-volume essentials including bread and butter, milk, tuna and toilet rolls, too."

He went on to say: "These latest price cuts will help reassure customers we'll continue to pass on savings as soon as we see the wholesale price of food fall. Customers will find great deals when they shop with us and they don't need to go elsewhere to get the best prices on their everyday food essentials.”

However, Sainsbury's are emphasising that the price reductions for customers doesn't mean they'll pay farmers any less.  

A spokesman said: "We work closely with farmers to help them navigate cost pressures while continuing to invest in keeping prices as low and competitive for our customers as we can."

https://www.sainsburys.co.uk.

Bloc Hotels and Michelin-starred chef, Aktar Islam, join forces to offer a truly unique gastronomic getaway

Bloc Hotel, which is famous for its stylish accommodation and Opheem, the Michelin-starred restaurant known for its wonderful and innovative cuisine, are excited to announce a unique collaboration, creating an unforgettable gastronomic getaway.

Running throughout next month, July, and August, this very limited package will offer a special 10-course tasting menu which is crafted by Opheem’s Michelin-starred celebrity chef, Aktar Islam, paired with an indulgent overnight stay at Birmingham's Bloc Hotel.

The package costs a modest £249 per couple and includes the 10-course tasting menu (which is usually £125 per person) plus an overnight stay at Bloc Hotel which is in Birmingham’s iconic city centre Jewellery Quarter.

The exquisite 10-course tasting menu showcases Opheem’s progressive Indian cuisine, and commitment to locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that harmonise flavours. 

Each course is a true work of culinary art, meticulously prepared and thoughtfully presented, reflecting Opheem’s distinctive culinary style.

“The partnership between Bloc and Opheem is a perfect blend of exceptional hospitality and culinary excellence,” said Rob Morgan, who is the MD of Bloc Hotels. “We're reall thrilled to collaborate with Opheem, a culinary gem in the city of Birmingham, to offer our guests an extraordinary experience that combines luxurious accommodation with a genuinely memorable gastronomic journey.”

Besides a sumptuous dinner, guests will enjoy an overnight stay at Bloc Hotel in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. Renowned for its contemporary design, innovative features, and attention to detail, Bloc provides everything needed to sleep, shower, and step out fresh, right into the heart of the city.

“We’re really excited to partner with Bloc to create a unique experience that combines the best of our respective offerings,” said Aktar Islam, Chef Patron at Opheem. “Our aim is to delight guests with a symphony of flavours and textures, pushing the boundaries of traditional cuisine. We look forward to welcoming guests and showcasing our culinary artistry.”

Guests can book this super-limited package at blochotels.com/opheem

Bloc Hotel Birmingham offers affordable luxury located in the very heart of the city’s historic Jewellery Quarter. 

With its commitment to contemporary design, innovative technology, and exceptional service, Bloc offers a unique and stylish experience for discerning travellers. The hotel’s prime location provides convenient access to popular attractions, shopping destinations, and transport hubs.

QUIET & SMART : Revolutionise Your Home with Quiet Mark Certified Smart Home Technology Solutions

As the Smart Home Technology trend continues to sweep through our the nation, more and more people and families are looking for ways to make their homes not only more efficient but also more comfortable to live in. 

With the increase in hybrid working, including working from home, the need for a functional and quiet environment has never been more imperative and important. 

In fact, the Quiet Mark National Noise Report found over four fifths (82%) of Brits would like to make their home quieter with a further 52% saying they would factor noise into their employment decision.

Quiet Mark, the independent international approval award programme associated with the UK Noise Abatement Society Charitable foundation, has been at the forefront of this trend, identifying and awarding the quietest products in various categories.

With the increase in demand for quieter appliances, also comes the expectation of smart connectivity, too. Manufacturers recognise that this is no longer seen as luxury or reserved for only high-end homes. And, thanks to voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa, most households are familiar with some aspects of AI functionality, whether it's used to control the lights in your home, check if your fridge is stocked or simply to ask what the weather will be like tomorrow. 

Quiet Mark certified brand Miele for example, has created the Miele@home app, which works with all intelligent Miele domestic appliances and can be networked conveniently and securely via a home WiFi router and the Miele Cloud. 

Here are six top Smart Home products to help revolutionise your home, but quietly! 

Duux Whisper Flex Ultimate Fan

Whisper Flex Ultimate has a reach of over 17 metres and, with an incredible 30 speed settings, the double-bladed fan can be set to your ideal temperature. Building on the same great features of the Whisper and Whisper Flex, including 100-degree vertical and 90-degree horizontal oscillation, smart connectivity (via Duux app) and super silent rotations, Whisper Ultimate also comes with a battery pack for a cordless option.

Melitta Barista T Smart Coffee Machine

The Melitta® Barista T Smart® can really do a great deal. With the Melitta® Connect app you can steer the preparation of coffee and manage many other features really simply with your smart phone.

Coway Airmega 300S Air Purifier

The Coway Airmega 300S smart air purifier is compatible with Google Home, Amazon Alexa and Coway IoCare app to remotely activate the air purifier and check filter life cycle and more. 

LG InstaView ThinQ GSXV91MCAE American Fridge Freezer

Control your fridge from your smartphone with LG ThinQ™ technology. You can adjust temperature settings or freeze items when you're on the go, in a meeting or just don't want to leave the sofa.

Siemens WD4HU541GB iQ700 10kg/6kg Freestanding Washer Dryer

iQ700 Washer dryer, 10/6 kg 1400 rpm. Wash & dry in one go with the wifi-enabled washer-dryer in only 60 minutes.

Miele G7660 SCVi AutoDos Integrated Dishwasher

Fully integrated dishwasher with automatic dispensing thanks to AutoDos with integrated PowerDisk.  Exploit the full potential of your Miele appliance and make your everyday life even smarter with the Miele@home system.  

View a selection of Quiet Mark certified products on QuietMark.com.

I am Döner wins prestigious national restaurant award

Yorkshire's very own Leeds-headquartered, I am Döner, has been rightfully recognised at a national level as it has won an Editor’s Choice Award at the annual QSR Media Awards, held in London yesterday.

This award is a special award decided upon by the editorial bench of QSR media, in recognition of outstanding achievements over the course of the year.

Over the past year I am Döner has continued its growth both nationally and internationally through their growing franchise operations. 

The brand has five operating stores throughout the UK and also in Dubai, with additional stores scheduled to open in Windsor, Liverpool and London by the year's end. And an important, major international franchise partnership soon to be announced. The brand is also in talks with various partners about future sites in airports and universities.

The brand is digitally led, focusing on delivering fantastic food items with homemade bread, sauces, pickled cabbage and fresh salad which is always prepared daily. 

They take pride in being a plastic free company constantly looking at new packaging that is biodegradable and kind to the environment.

Chef Paul Baron who is the founder of I am Döner collected the award on behalf of his team.  Baron says “We're obviously very honoured to be have been selected for this prestigious award within our industry. It has been a busy year for us so far with more exciting news to share very soon. We are thrilled to be working with some of the best franchise partners to help our brand scale so successfully.”

Indulge in Wimbledon-Inspired Delights With Trewithen Dairy's Limited Edition Pimms Cornish Cream Tea Hamper for Two and Two New Recipes

Cornish dairy Trewithen Dairy has presented a quintessential English cream tea experience.

Indulge in Wimbledon-Inspired delights with their limited edition Pimms Cornish Cream Tea Hamper for two.

Trewithen Dairy Pimm’s Cornish Cream Tea Hamper for two -  at a RRP £24.49 - www.trewithendairy.co.uk 

Why not immerse yourself in the true essence of Wimbledon, whether you're captivated by the on-court action or enjoying the tournament from the comfort of your own sofa or recliner, with the perfect serving of strawberries and cream. 

Trewithen Dairy is offering customers a delicious and exclusive limited edition summer hamper, designed to delight all aficionados of a quintessentially English cream tea. With the rich heritage of Cornwall woven into each and every product, this is a true celebration of wonderful English culinary traditions.

Inside the carefully curated hamper, you’ll discover a selection of premium products which will include Trewithen Dairy’s delicious and award-winning golden crusted clotted cream, four fluffy scones (plain, fruit or gluten-free), a pot of Cornish strawberry jam, The Cornish Tea Company’s tea bags or Cornish Ground Coffee and two cans of Pimms for an extraordinarily delicious  cream tea experience. Extra Pimms cans and a special Wimbledon Guest Towel can also be purchased as optional extras.

Adding an extra taste of summer, Trewithen Dairy has collaborated with the Cornish summer cup company, Pocketful of Stones, to create two new and exclusive recipes. You'll be captivated by the burst of summer flavours in their summer cup scones and no-churn summer cup clotted cream ice cream, perfectly complementing the cream tea ensemble. (That's Food and Drink has already published that recipe!)

Indulge in the spirit of Wimbledon, savour the delights of Trewithen Dairy's limited edition summer hamper, and experience the pinnacle of a English cream tea affair while enjoying Wimbledon.

Summer cup scones

Light and refreshing, the scones are a delicious talking-point to serve at parties for a summery twist on the classic cream tea. Pen Sans Summer Cup is bursting with ripe summer fruits and red berries - perfect with our luxurious Cornish clotted cream. Feel free to use shop-bought scones and take them to the next level if you haven’t time to bake your own.

Ingredients

For the scones

350g Self-raising flour, sieved

Pinch of salt

100g Trewithen Dairy unsalted butter

110ml Trewithen Dairy whole milk

1 Egg, beaten

For the topping

150g Frozen strawberries

2tbsp Caster sugar

50ml Pen Sans Summer Cup

Garnish 

Fresh strawberries

Mint leaves

Cucumber, sliced

Trewithen Dairy Cornish clotted cream

Method

BeginS with the scones. Preheat the oven to 190c. Grease and line two baking trays.

Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour to create fine breadcrumbs. Stream the milk in slowly, using a cold knife to gently mix until it just forms a dough. Wrap in cling film and chill for 20 minutes while you make the strawberry topping.

Place the frozen strawberries and a splash of water in a saucepan over a medium heat, allowing them to break down. At this point, add a measure of summer cup and caster sugar. Continue to stir for a couple of minutes until it has reduced down slightly. Remove from the heat and chill.

Back to the scones. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to a thickness of 2cm and cut into rounds with a cutter. Don’t twist them out of the cutter, otherwise they will warp in the oven. 

Place on the baking trays, before brushing the tops with the beaten egg. Bake for 12 minutes until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.

To serve, smother with strawberry sauce, a generous spoonful of Cornish clotted cream and garnish with strawberries, cucumber and mint. Enjoy with a large jug of summer cup filled with summery botanicals. Heaven!

No-churn summer cup clotted cream ice-cream

The epitome of summer flavours, Pen Sans Summer Cup is bursting with red berry aromas and pairs perfectly with our rich Cornish clotted cream. Make this easy no-churn ice-cream in advance so you have it ready to pull out of the freezer for hot days and al fresco dessert.

Ingredients

2 Large eggs

125g Caster sugar

250ml Double cream

200g Trewithen Dairy Cornish clotted cream

250ml Trewithen Dairy whole milk

200g Strawberries - frozen (defrosted) or fresh

1 tbsp Icing sugar

50ml Pen Sans Summer Cup

Garnish

Mint leaves

Strawberries

Orange slices

Method

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until light and fluffy. While still whisking, add the caster sugar, one spoonful at a time and continue mixing for a few minutes. Add both creams and pour in the milk, while continuing to whisk.

Pour into a freezer-proof container (a loaf or baking tin works well) and freeze for two hours. Remove from the freezer, whisk thoroughly and return to the freezer. 

In the meantime, place the strawberries and a splash of water in a small saucepan over a medium heat and cook until the strawberries break down into a sauce. Add the icing sugar and Pen Sans Summer Cup. Allow to simmer for a few minutes until the mixture reduces slightly. Set aside too cool. 

Stir the strawberry sauce through the semi-frozen ice cream and, using a cocktail stick, pull it gently through to create a beautiful marbling effect. Add the remaining strawberries on top and return to the freezer until frozen - approximately one hour later. When you’re ready to serve, remove from the freezer and add fresh strawberries, mint and orange slices to garnish. Enjoy in cones or bowls.

https://www.trewithendairy.co.uk.

Trewithen Dairy's No-churn summer cup clotted cream ice-cream

The epitome of summery flavours, Pen Sans Summer Cup is truly bursting with red berry aromas and pairs perfectly with Trewithen Dairy's delicious rich Cornish clotted cream. 

Why not create this easy no-churn ice-cream in advance so you have it ready to pull out of the freezer for hot days and al fresco dessert?

Here is the recipe:-

Ingredients

2 Large eggs

125g Caster sugar

250ml Double cream

200g Trewithen Dairy Cornish clotted cream

250ml Trewithen Dairy whole milk

200g Strawberries - frozen (defrosted) or fresh

1 tbsp Icing sugar

50ml Pen Sans Summer Cup

Garnish

Mint leaves

Strawberries

Orange slices

Method

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until they are light and fluffy. While you are still whisking, add the caster sugar, one spoonful at a time and continue mixing for a few minutes. Add both the types of creams and pour in the milk, while continuing to whisk.

Pour into a freezer-proof container (a loaf or baking tin is ideal) and freeze for two hours. Remove from the freezer, whisk the mixture thoroughly and return it to the freezer. 

In the meantime, place the strawberries and a splash of water in a small saucepan over a medium heat and cook until the strawberries break down into a sauce. Add the icing sugar and Pen Sans Summer Cup. Allow to simmer for a few minutes until the mixture reduces slightly. Set aside to allow it to cool. 

Stir the strawberry sauce through the semi-frozen ice cream and, using a cocktail stick, pull it gently through to create a beautiful marbling effect. Add the remaining strawberries on top and return to the freezer until frozen. This should be something like an hour later. When you're ready to serve, remove from the freezer and add fresh strawberries, mint and orange slices to garnish. Enjoy in cones or bowls.

https://www.trewithendairy.co.uk.

Summer Cup Scones - Perfect for Wimbledon

Light, refreshing and utterly delicious, these scones are a delightfully scrummy talking-point to serve at parties for a summertime twist on the classic cream tea. 

Pens Sans Summer Cup is bursting with ripe summer fruits and red berries - perfect with Trewithen Dairy's  luxurious Cornish clotted cream. 

You can even use shop-bought scones and titivate them if you haven't time to bake your own.

Ingredients

For the scones

350g Self-raising flour, sieved

Pinch of salt

100g Trewithen Dairy unsalted butter

110ml Trewithen Dairy whole milk

1 Egg, beaten

For the topping

150g Frozen strawberries

2tbsp Caster sugar

50ml Pens Sans Summer Cup

Garnish 

Fresh strawberries

Mint leaves

Cucumber, sliced

Trewithen Dairy Cornish clotted cream

Method

Start with the scones. Preheat the oven to 190c. Grease and line two baking trays.

Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour to create fine breadcrumbs. Stream the milk in slowly, using a cold knife to gently mix until it just forms a dough. Wrap in cling film and chill for 20 minutes while you make the strawberry topping.

Place the frozen strawberries and a splash of water in a saucepan over a medium heat, allowing them to break down. At this point, add a measure of summer cup and caster sugar. Continue to stir for a couple of minutes until it has reduced down slightly. Remove from the heat and chill.

Back to the scones. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to a thickness of 2cm and cut into rounds with a cutter. Don't twist them out of the cutter, otherwise they will warp in the oven. 

Place on the baking trays, before brushing the tops with the beaten egg. Bake for 12 minutes until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.

To serve, smother with strawberry sauce, a generous spoonful of Cornish clotted cream and garnish with strawberries, cucumber and mint. Enjoy with a large jug of Pen Sans summer cup filled with appropriately delicious and refreshing summery botanicals. Divine!

https://www.trewithendairy.co.uk

Wise Bartender hosts Wise Fest 2023 – the Fun and Free Family Event That Showcases the Best of Alcohol-Free Drinks

On Saturday 15 July Wise Fest 2023 is being held at Wayside Farm, Evercreech, Somerset, BA4 6QW from 12noon-10pm. 

With a wide and eclectic range of alcohol-free drinks to choose from, visitors can also enjoy fantastic live music, tasty BBQ food and tutored drinks tasting sessions with kids face painting and glitter tattoos available for younger guests.

Says Wise Bartender Founder and organiser of Wise Fest 2023, Tom Ward: “Wise Bartender has specialised in alcohol-free drinks since our launch back in 2017. We offer people a choice about what they want to drink. 

"We stock over 600 products to meet the growing demand for alcohol-free beer, cider, wine, spirits, cocktails and kombuchas and know from research that over a quarter (29%) of UK drinkers now 'semi-regularly' consume low and no alcohol products. The quality has increased and improved dramatically over the last several years and there's now an incredible range of full-flavoured alcohol-free drinks that are perfect to enjoy on a sunny summer's day. We feel that Wise Fest is the perfect way of exploring and discovering some new gems alongside enjoying some old favourites in a relaxed and enjoyable setting with the whole family.”

One of the highlights of Wise Fest 2023 will be tutored tasting sessions, all hosted by drinks experts. “For those who want to know a little more about the range of alcohol-free drinks and finding some new alcohol-free must-have drinks, we're genuinely thrilled to welcome some of the most knowledgeable experts in the category who'll be leading tasting sessions” Tom went on to say.

“Leading wine expert and founder of the world alcohol-free awards, Chrissie Parkinson, social media personality Emma Newman (@Emma_Sobersonic) and Club Soda beer expert Teddy Hardman will all be taking guests through sampling sessions at free tastings throughout the day. 

"Among the alcohol-free drinks available to try will be beers from Big Drop Brewing, Butcombe and Clean Break Brewing; spirit alternatives from Caleño, Myth Spirits, Ish Spirits and Mahala Spirit; wine from McGuigan's and Not Guilty and Maiden Mill, which is the world's only dedicated alcohol-free cider producer.”

Everyone is welcome at Wise Fest 2023, as are dogs on leads, with a wide range of alcohol-free drinks available plus BBQ and ice creams. Live music will be provided by local artists Eddie Dean, 34 South Duo and John Lime Acoustic and you may even catch a glimpse of the Caleño Brazilian dancers!

There is plentiful parking and admission to Wise Fest 2023 is free on the gate, but advance tickets can be ordered for £5 which will include a free drink at the event and a free glass to take home with you.

Wise Fest 2023 is on Saturday 15th July 2023

Wayside Farm, Evercreech, Somerset, BA4 6QW from 12noon-10pm

Wise Fest 2023 Tickets, Sat 15 Jul 2023 at 12:00 | Eventbrite

Sweden's Flävar Strawberry & Lime Schnapps will be a Summer hit

Many people are glued to the tennis at the moment. So, why not take the traditional Wimbledon treat of strawberries and cream and give it a nifty, modern twist by serving a chilled shot with squirty cream on the top for a bit of Flävar flair? 

Flävar Strawberry & Lime is also delicious served with prosecco (the 'Flävecco'), or topped up with ice and lemonade. Inspired by Founder Rolf's Scandinavian heritage, plus the Swedish concept of 'Fika' (a short break from a busy day to enjoy a sweet treat with friends), Flävar's retro refresh of the schnapps category is well-timed to coincide with celebratory occasions like Wimbledon, receptions, garden parties, BBQs and more.

Says founder Rolf Munding: “Anyone brought up in Scandinavia or Germany will know Schnapps as a huge part of our culture. It always makes me think of the good times with friends and family, as I'm certain it does for many other people too. Flävar is inspired by this retro-drinking experience and we've created a range that appeals to the UK's desire for exploring new, delicious flavours.”

Time for the perfect serve? You'll discover your Flävar at https://flavarspirit.com or Amazon. 

RRP is £19.99 for 70cl, 25% ABV.

Salford's SEVEN BRO7HERS BREWERY launched Crowdfund Campaign to build 'Forever Home" and boost production

Salford's SEVEN BRO7HERS BREWING CO is aiming to raise half a million Pounds via a crowd funding campaign in an exciting bid to build a new 'forever home' as it expands to meet rapidly growing production demands.

The much-loved Salford-based brewery is looking to invest in “near-term” production, as well as launching the process to build a larger brewery and distillery site in city.

The crowd funding callout promises a big investment in the north – aiming to provide more jobs for the region, as well as revenue.

The initial wave of funding would support the implementation of an upgraded canning line, as well as new tanks. This upgrade will caterer to the brand's growing production demands from major retailers, like ASDA and ALDI, as well as supporting its capacity to fulfil new craft beer arena tenders and contracts.  

As part of the expansion plans, SEVEN BRO7HERS is looking to secure brand-new location to build their 'forever home' by 2026. The new site will be the base for a brewhouse, a custom-made distillery, packaging, and operations, plus an onsite taproom and restaurant.

CEO Keith McAvoy, said: “We don't expect this funding round to be able to finance all our ambitious plans, but this round will lay the groundwork. It will allow us to staff and resource the right team to make this dream into a reality. ​

“It's our ambition to have a new venue operational by 2026, and this new premises would support group revenue to exceed £30m before 2030.”

The latest crowd fund is targeted to raise £500,000 at a valuation of £12m – this is up 50% from when SEVEN BRO7HERS crowdfunded in 2020.

Keith McAvoy, went on to say: “We've operated from the same brewery since 2017, we're  now nearing operational capacity.​ We have two investment scenarios available to us; one is an overhaul and increase of capacity within our current premises, the second is to invest in a new destination brewery in Manchester, suitable for growth over the next two decades.​

“We have several retail opportunities available to us, not only in Manchester but cities across the north including Sheffield, Leeds, Nottingham and York and further south into Birmingham and London. ​Which, of course, we can only explore with more operational space.”

He added: “Initially we're raising to support the current production site; increasing volume and speed of packaging, then looking to invest significantly in a future home for the business this year and in 2024.”

The brewery was founded in 2014 by McAvoy brothers, Guy, Keith, Luke, Daniel, Nathan, Kit, and Greg, inspired by their dad's home-brewing efforts in their cellar at home.

Since crowd funding in 2020, the brewery has utilised every penny invested to maximise the return on investment and promote growth within the business. The total investment, including founder funding is £1.3m from which the company has generated cumulative revenues of more than £14m.

SEVEN BRO7HERS have four successful beer houses and a taproom across Salford, Manchester, and Liverpool. Most recently the brothers opened a summer pop-up in Manchester City Centre within the 'Kampus' residential complex, there are currently discussions in place to make this a permanent fixture in the portfolio.

In July 2020 they opened their partnership bar at Manchester Airports new T2 Departure Lounge, operated by HMS Host International.

This Summer SEVEN BRO7HERS and SIS4ERS DISTILLERY will be collaborating on the launch of a new brand “ELEVEN CENTRAL” this will include a range of spirits.

SEVEN BRO7HERS will be offering 'investor rewards' to those who support the crowd fund. A £25 investment will get you a free pint at one of the SEVEN BRO7HERS beer houses, with £100 securing you dinner as a thank you.

Larger investments mean greater perks, £250 a 5% off investors card for the webshop and bars, £1,000 will get you 10% off. For those investing over £10k you will receive a monthly case of beers for 12 months plus discounts.

To invest in the crowd fund, head to https://www.crowdcube.com/early-access/seven-bro7hers.

(That's Food and Drink: I'll be working in Liverpool city centre this week. I'll pop in for a drink if I can.)

‘Beer Gate’ and ‘Party Gate’ venues shortlisted in Asian Restaurant Awards

Two curry houses thought to have provided the takeaways for controversial political party meetings, have both been shortlisted for this year’s Asian Restaurant Awards, being held in Manchester on 27th June, which is today.

The Spice Lounge in Durham, which is believed to have provided the food for Labour leader Keir Starmer and other party members during the evening of the so called ‘Beer Gate’ meeting, has been nominated for Best Indian in the North East.

Dishoom, whose takeaway box is evident in a photo of Boris Johnson at a leaving event inside 10 Downing Street, is shortlisted in the Best Restaurant Group category. The Irani-café style restaurants have branches in Manchester, Edinburgh and London.

The shortlist was determined by over 100,000 votes from members of the public.  A panel of judges for the Asian Catering Federation (ACF), which hosts the awards, are currently touring the country to determine the eventual victors.  Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony, sponsored by Just East and Booker Wholesale, being held at the Manchester Hilton on Monday 27th June.

The prestigious Fine Dining Category will be contested by Benares, Cinnamon Club, Grand Trunk Road, Heritage Dulwich, Indian Essence in Orpington, and Quilon in London, Ambrette in Canterbury, Indian Essence in Orpington, Mint Room in Bath Navadhanya in Cambridge and Prithvi in Cheltenham.

The full list is online at www.asianrestaurantawards.org

Winner at the year’s event will be included in the ACF’s new ‘One Hundred Top Curry Restaurants’ guide, which is being published currently, region–by–region, at www.Top100curryRestaurants.co.uk, with a printed version being available next year.

Later this year the ACF will also be hosting the 6th Asian Restaurant Awards (Scotland) in Edinburgh at the Sheraton Grand on 19th September and the 12th Asian Curry Awards at the Grosvenor House in London, on 20th November 2022. 

Incidentally, these are the UK’s only restaurant awards open to all Asian cuisines, including: Bangladeshi, Burmese, Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Malaysian, Middle Eastern, Pakistani, Singaporean, Sri Lankan, Thai, Turkish and Vietnamese.

ACF’s chairman Yawar Khan says that many curry restaurants are facing an existential crisis: “Soaring food, energy and salary costs, combined with rising National Insurance and VAT rates, plus severe staff shortages, compounded by customers having less money to spend on restaurant visits and takeaways, is seeing record numbers closures,” he said.

Khan urged customers to support their favourite restaurants by nominating them for this year’s awards via www.asianrestaurantawards.org/scotland-nomination-form and www.asiancurryawards.com

The Asian Catering Federation (ACF), which represents the nation’s 30,000 Asian and Oriental restaurants organises the only awards open to all Asian cuisines: Bangladeshi, Burmese, Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Malaysian, Middle Eastern, Pakistani, Singaporean, Sri Lankan, Thai, Turkish and Vietnamese.

The Awards’ main sponsor is Just Eat, the market-leading online food ordering and delivery platform.  The awards are also supported by Booker Wholesale.

The ACF strives to deliver real returns for its members within the Asian catering industry, helping them to find financial success, achieve excellence, and build customer loyalty. It aims to unite Asian caterers on one platform; campaign for greater recognition; achieve members’ common goals through partnerships with government and other organisations; provide help with training and create rewarding careers in Asian catering.

The sector employs over 100,000 people and contributes more than £5 billion to the UK economy.

 (Illustration courtesy of  Pete Linforth and Pixabay)

Quorn, pioneer of meat substitutes, joins Plant-based Food Alliance UK

Quorn, which is the pioneer of plant-based meat substitutes, has joined the UK Plant-based Food Alliance (PBFA) as a full member. It's believed this will strengthen the Alliance’s clout in Westminster. 

“It’s fantastic to have such a strong player in the market such as Quorn join us in our push for policies that promote plant-based eating in the UK,” Marisa Heath, PBFA CEO, said. 

“There's so much the Government can do to encourage climate-friendly diets, in the form of trade, public procurement, research, marketing, plus regulation. And it's vital for us to have the big plant-based companies by our side as we negotiate our way there,” Heath added.

Quorn joins the Alliance, which includes industry heavyweights such as Alpro, Oatly and Upfield, at a time when the labelling of plant-based foods is under threat of restrictions. New guidance, aimed at trading standards officials but, as yet, unpublished, looks to restrict dairy descriptor terms used by plant-based products, such as “m*lk” or “alternative to X” or “yoghurt-style”. 

“We've been fighting the proposed guidance to restrict plant-based labelling for over a year now and we will continue to do this because we believe the Government should be doing all it can to promote the sector rather than hindering it,” she pointed out.

She went on to explain: “The sector very much represents the future of food, producing far less greenhouse gas emissions than the meat and dairy sector, and maturing to provide a huge range of alternatives to conventional meat and dairy products." 

Plant-based diets are also a key to global food security: researchers have found growing food exclusively for direct human consumption, rather than as animal feed and for biofuel production, could potentially increase available food calories by up to 70%, which could feed an additional 4 billion people, worldwide. 

Food security was the reason Quorn came into existence when Lord Rank recognised in the 1960s that conventional farming wouldn't be able to keep up with food shortages and a rapidly growing population and that a new, sustainable protein source was needed. Quorn was born out of research to find a solution to that problem.

“Quorn is such an excellent example of a company using the power of science to come up with sustainable solutions to global crises. We know policy makers will take notice of what Quorn has to say as a member of the Alliance going forward,” Heath added. 

Tess Kelly, Head of External Engagement, at Quorn Foods, said: “Quorn Foods shares the conviction that making positive change happen on our plates is a vital step to regenerating human and planetary health. We look forward to contributing to the work of the PbFA, and are proud to stand alongside fellow pioneering organisations that are at the forefront of providing the solutions needed to speed the transition to a food future that is healthy, sustainable, equitable, and absolutely delicious.”

Goodrays Reports Growth of 1,491% as Waitrose Expands CBD Range

Waitrose supermarkets are taking four new products this month (June) which Goodrays predicts will contribute to the brand tripling its revenue over this next financial year.

A four flavour mixed pack will be sold exclusively through Waitrose as a permanent SKU, RRP £7.50. It contains 250ml cans of Elderflower & Yuzu, Blood Orange & Grapefruit, Raspberry & Guava and Passionfruit & Pomelo. It is completely plastic-free, vegan and low calorie, and each can contains a market-leading 30mg of CBD.

Waitrose has also taken CBD Zen Drops and CBD Night Drops Oil and 'anytime' CBD Gummies. CBD Oils, as recent research by Goodrays shows, are currently the most popular way for the UK to consume CBD. 

Goodways Head of Marketing Henry Colyer said: “For Waitrose to have taken on our whole range is game-changing for us - it supports our brand mission to educate on the benefits of CBD and provide daily calm and clarity to people all over the UK. We are excited to have launched the mixed four pack of our delicious flavours - just in time for the festival and summer party season in the UK. Our fully recyclable pack allows you to enjoy relaxation without the toxification. 

"Goodrays is the perfect alternative to a four pack of beer or cider when you want to take a break and achieve a bit of balance. Waitrose now offers an option for multiple moments of the customer's daily routine, thanks to our oils designed for day and night, and tasty gummies that can be enjoyed when needed.”

Goodrays recent research of 2000 CBD users showed that the most popular way to consume CBD is:

Oils and Tinctures (54% reported this was their preferred way to consume CBD)

Drinks (40%)

Gummies (32%)

Coffee (26%)

Balm (24%)

Other (6%)

Goodrays now has a team of ten and is based in Shoreditch, London.

Awareness around mental wellbeing has been a huge driving force for Goodrays' founder Eoin Keenan. Keenan has been a vocal advocate of the power of the hemp plant for over a decade.  He launched Goodrays in 2021 to focus on high quality CBD products at an accessible price point, such as oils and RTD canned drinks. Goodrays is now available at Waitrose and Tesco and other major retailers such as WH Smith.

Marks and Spencer latest retailer to lock down prices

M&S Food is investing in the price of over 200 products as part of its promise to deliver trusted value to its 30 million customers.

The investment will see the store reduce the prices of over 70 family staples and extend its price lock on 150 customer favourites, whilst still upholding its market leading quality and welfare standards.

M&S Food is cutting the price on some of its more popular cupboard staples to support its customers, including products like M&S Select Farms DNA traceable Beef Mince, Avocados, Greek style yoghurt and Ciabatta rolls. These are some of M&S’ most popular lines, with in excess of 400,000 Avocado packs and 140,000 Greek Style Yogurt pots sold by M&S in the last four weeks alone.

Also M&S Food is extending its price lock on 150 products which will be in place right through to the autumn, and features a number of essential food items that customers can rely on at M&S for great value right through the summer months.

This includes M&S Select Farms RSPCA Assured outdoor-bred British Pork Sausages (pack of eight - £2.00), Super Sweet Corn on the Cob (pack of two - £1.40), Traditional Coleslaw (225g - £1.25) the price lock bestseller, British Mature Cheddar (10 Slices 250g - £2.80) and Select Farms Season's Gold Potatoes (1kg - £1.65).

This initiative is in tandem with the retailer’s Remarksable Value range of everyday staples, first launched back in 2019, which are continuously benchmarked against key competitors to guarantee the best value for its customers. The range continues to grow in appeal among M&S shoppers, with Remarksable sales up 40%, and in over 20% of customer baskets over the past year.

Alex Freudmann, who is the MD at M&S Food: opined: “We know value is everything to our customers especially at the moment and while they’re looking forward to a great summer, they’re also looking for certainty on spending. Our latest price investment across 200 products upholds our trusted value promise and delivers on that certainty.

“Trusted value means offering the best possible quality at the best possible price. I’m proud we're the number one retailer for farm animal welfare, selling the biggest range of RSPCA Assured products, including our Scottish Smoked Salmon fillets and British Pork Sausages, alongside our DNA traceable Beef mince, able to be traced back to the individual farm and animal."

He went on to say: "We’re determined to keep up the pace for our customers. Our value perception is at its highest point in six years because we relentlessly focus on price with no compromise to the magic of M&S Food, our market leading product quality, innovation and sourcing standards.”

In February this year, M&S topped consumer group Which?’s annual supermarket satisfaction survey, achieving the highest overall customer score of 77% and receiving five star ratings for store appearance, customer service and quality of own label and fresh products.

marksandspencer.com

I'm officially joyful! Aldi launched Ballycastle that tastes exactly like Reese's Peanut Butter Cups!

Fans of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups (like me!) will be thrilled with the news Aldi is launching a totally new Ballycastle flavour, the Milk Chocolate & Peanut Butter Cream Liqueur (£7.49, 70cl) which will  be in stores from Thursday 29th June.

It's a luxurious blend of Irish whisky, rich chocolate and salty-sweet peanut butter notes, fans will be certain to notice flavour similarities to Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, but with a nifty alcoholic twist.

Serve it neat, with ice or why not create your deliciously boozy milkshake?

Ingredients:

100ml Ballycastle Chocolate & Peanut Butter Cream Liqueur

100ml Cowbelle Chocolate Fudge Milk

500ml water

60g The Pantry Cocoa Powder

Moser Roth Milk Chocolate, shaved

Peanuts to garnish

Method:

In a small saucepan, boil 250ml of water then remove from heat and add The Pantry Cocoa Powder 

Stir to dissolve and then add the remaining 250ml cup of water 

Once it's cool, add the Ballycastle Chocolate & Peanut Butter Cream Liqueur to the mixture and leave to infuse

Once successfully infused (this will take ten minutes) shake all the ingredients up in a cocktail shaker with ice. 

Pour into your preferred glasses and top up with whipped cream, grated Moser Roth Milk Chocolate and the peanuts!

The latest addition follows the success of Aldi’s Ballycastle Hazelnut Chocolate Cream Liqueur (£7.49, 70cl), which was noted as a delicious alcoholic twist on the much-loved spread, Nutella.

The supermarket’s Ballycastle range has scooped a series of awards. The Specially Selected Irish Cream (£7.99, 70cl) landed a ‘Great Value’ accolade in the 2022 prestigious Which? ‘Irish Cream Liqueur’ taste test, whilst the Ballycastle White Chocolate Cream (£7.49, 70cl) and the Ballycastle Chocolate, Caramel and Hazelnut Cream (£7.49, 70cl) BOTH won medals at this year’s International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC).

Aldi’s Ballycastle Milk Chocolate & Peanut Butter Cream Liqueur is available in-stores and via Click & Collect nationwide from Thursday 29th June.

Actually, when I make this milkshake, I'm seriously thinking of adding some Reese's Peanut Butter Cups into the mix! 

A shopping trip to our nearest Aldi is certainly on the cards for next Thursday!

Free Armed Forces breakfasts at Tesco

Members of the UK Armed Forces will be able to get a free hot breakfast at Tesco cafes across Great Britain to mark the Armed Forces Day celebrations.

As a thank you for their service, on Sunday June 25, all serving Armed Forces personnel, that's around 159,000 regulars and 32,000 reservists, can present their MOD90 identification card at any Tesco café and get a free full cooked breakfast, vegan cooked breakfast, sausage bap or a bacon bap.

All 295 Tesco cafes across England, Scotland and Wales will be offering the promotion, which is limited to one free breakfast per cardholder.

The initiative is part of Tesco's sponsorship of Armed Forces Day for the second year running. The event took place in Falmouth today, Saturday June 24, to recognise the incredible contribution that members of the Armed Forces community make to our lives.

Ashwin Prasad, Chief Product Officer at Tesco and Exec Sponsor of the Armed Forces Network, said: “Once again, we’re proud to be the headline sponsor of Armed Forces Day. Everyone loves a free breakfast and it’s a great way of showing how much we value members of the Armed Forces.”

Rhys Little, Chair of the Tesco Armed Forces Network, said: “We take great pride in our connection with the Armed Forces and we're the number one employer in the UK for veterans when they leave the armed forces."

He went on to say: "We've received the Gold award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme twice now (in 2016 and 2020), and we were also the first retailer to sign the Armed Forces Covenant in 2014.”

Over the weekend of June 24 and 25, Local events are taking place in towns, cities, and villages up and down the country, with Falmouth at the heart of the celebrations. It promises to be a spectacular event, with parades through the town, displays by the Red Arrows, the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team, and a series of thrilling flypasts.

As well as sponsoring the event, Tesco stores will be holding a nationwide collection for Help for Heroes the weekend prior on June 17 and 18 including a round-up at till option so customers can easily donate while shop with us.

For more information on Armed Forces Day please visit https://www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Charity urges supporters to send Eid eCard to raise funds for clean water

Clean water advocacy charity, Hope Spring, has urged its supporters, Muslim and non-Muslims alike, to send Eid Adha electronic greetings cards, to wish people celebrating the Islamic festival a happy Eid. 

The lunar calendar based annual festivity, is expected to be on the 29th or 30th of June 2023. It is the second most important festival in the islamic calendar, after the Eid Kabir, celebrated at the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Hope Spring eCards raises a significant part of the donations Hope Spring Water is used to fund their clean water, sanitation and hygiene advocacy projects. Such donations have helped the charity to build five boreholes, they have also run a number of menstrual hygiene workshops. Communities in West Africa with strong clean water and sanitation challenges tend to be Hope Spring beneficiaries.

The charity hopes the Eid Adha fundraising campaign will raise enough money to build a borehole or a well for one of the communities they hope to help with clean water later this year. Significant religion linked celebrations such as Eid Adha and Christmas tend to be the most successful fundraisers for Hope Spring. A significant portion of the funds used to complete their projects this year came from funds raised by their corporate charity ecard campaign last year.

According to Hope Spring eCards platform manager, Seun Olonade her organisation had a great Eid Fitr fundraising campaign, they are looking to top it off with an equally successful Eid Adha campaign. She urged their supporters and visitors to their website to send Eid Adha eCard and make a donation. She added that people may also send an Eid Adha card without making a donation via their free ecards page.

You can find more information about Hope Spring Eid Adha, their projects and other information about the charity on their website and social media page.

hello@hopespring.org.uk

http://www.hopespring.org.uk

Living off the grid? Jackery could help you

Some readers of That's Food and Drink live off the grid, meaning that they aren't connected to power systems or, sometimes, even water or sewerage systems.

This can cause problems because a lack of electrical power can mean that they are limited in storage of food because refrigeration and freezing isn't readily available. 

However, there are options that are available to provide off grid homes with mains quality electricity supplies so that using fridges, freezers and even cooking with electricity is possible.

Jackery, which is a truly global leader in innovative portable power and green outdoor energy solutions, is genuinely pleased and thrilled to announce their Solar Generator 2000 Plus has been awarded the esteemed SEAL Sustainable Product Award for 2023. 

This prestigious accolade brings great emphasis that Jackery's dedication to offering sustainable energy solutions that empower individuals and contribute to a greener future is well-deserved.

The SEAL Sustainable Products Award is a globally recognised honour that celebrates products and services with outstanding sustainability attributes. Annually, the SEAL Awards organisation conducts a rigorous evaluation process to identify and honour companies and products which prioritise sustainability, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility.

The SG 2000 Plus is a revolutionary solar generator that employs the sun's energy to provide clean and renewable power for a variety of applications. Equipped with high-efficiency IBC solar panels and a durable LiFePO4 battery for storage of electrical energy, this advanced generator offers a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional petrol generators.

"We're truly honoured and pleased to receive the SEAL Sustainable Products Award 2023 for our SG 2000 Plus," said Lara Luo, Head of Branding at Jackery. 

"Here at Jackery, we believe in the power of innovation to drive positive change. This recognition underscores our commitment to developing sustainable, portable power solutions that enable individuals to embrace renewable energy sources and reduce their carbon footprint."

The SG 2000 Plus is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts, home backup, emergency preparedness, and off-grid adventures. Its versatile AC, DC, and USB ports provide ample connectivity options for a wide variety of electronic devices and equipment, making it an all-in-one power solution for any situation. 

It's carefully designed for user convenience and the transportation-friendly generator is easy to use and offers reliable performance in challenging environments.

For more information about Jackery's Solar Generator 2000 Plus and other innovative portable power solutions, please visit uk.jackery.com.

Incidentally, I first became aware of the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus by chance when a YouTuber I follow, Nate Petroski of @Narrowayhomestead, described setting up and using one of these devices.

Food producers. Please DO NOT use pea protein in your products if you can avoid it

Why are we at That's Food and Drink asking food producers to avoid using pea protein in your products?

Firstly, yes we recognise that pea protein is a very important source of protein and is very good for people who are on vegetarian or vegan diets and for ecological reasons, too.

However! This evening I was having a drink of potato-based milk. It was OK, it sort of looked like cow's milk, had a reasonably good mouthfeel but there was something that I was not enjoying. Why? The taste! Because it had an under taste of weak, wishy-washy pea soup.

I took the carton out of the 'fridge and yes, listed right there was pea protein.

But that, dear readers, is the problem with anything that has pea protein in. It always tastes of pea soup, sometimes stronger, sometimes weaker.

I like milk on my breakfast cereals. Cow's milk, ewe's milk, oat milk are all tasting reasonably fine on my breakfast cereal. But if I wouldn't put weak pea soup on my breakfast cereal I'm certainly not going to pour pea protein milk on them!

Pea protein belongs in savoury items including pea soup. But please not in milk and not in flour. 

There are alternatives that you could get your development kitchen chefs and food scientists to use, instead, including: Hemp protein, Pumpkin Seed Protein, Brown Rice Protein, Soy Protein, Sunflower Seed Protein, Sacha Inchi Protein, Chia Protein and others, too.

(Image courtesy of StockSnap and Pixabay)

Asda earns 86 product awards in Free From Awards

Asda was awarded a very impressive 86 product awards at this year’s Free From Food Awards including 4 Golds, 27 Silvers, 36 Bronze, 19 Commended as well as the top accolade of the night, Free From Retailer of the Year.

The awards mark a celebration of Asda’s own brand Free From products, which strive to offer great quality and value for all customers. 

Judges were reportedly wowed by Asda’s impressive range, stating: “Between their vegan and their free from ranges Asda now offer a really impressive selection of foods for the allergic community - and at really competitive prices while still maintaining the quality of their products. A massive step towards including those on free from diets in the general community.”

Asda Free From, Chow Mein Stir-Fry Sauce

Free From: Gluten Free, Soya Free

Retail: £0.50

Asda’s Free From, Chow Mein Stir-Fry Sauce, with a hint of garlic and warming ginger is bound to spice up a mid-week dinner. Awarded Gold, this product was described by the judging panel as: “Lovely colour, aroma, consistency & flavour profile. A great balance of flavours with the perfect spice heat at the end. Very impressive to be gluten free, sesame free and soya free. And the price point is equally impressive”.

Asda Free From, Salad Cream

Free From: Egg Free

Retail: £1.10

The perfect condiment to accompany a summer salad in this hot weather, Asda Free From Salad Cream was awarded Gold by the expert panel, described as:

“This tastes just like the real thing. Impressive that this delivers the same flavour and consistency whilst being gluten free, milk free and egg free! Great price. A credible & accessible alternative”.

Asda Free From Extra Special, 8 Sicilian Orange & Belgian Dark Chocolate Cookies

Free From: Gluten

Retail: £2.00

Looking to brighten up your coffee break? made using an all-butter recipe and studded with Belgian chocolate this gold awarded product really is an extra special treat!

Asda Extra Special, 12 Classic Pork Chipolata Sausages

Free From: Gluten Free

Retail: £3.25

The perfect banger on your BBQ, full breakfast or roll to go, Asda’s Extra Special Classic Pork Chipolata sausages are gold awarded by Free From Food Awards panel. As well as great quality, customers can also pick up a bargain, two packs for only £5

Asda Free From, Vanilla Flavoured Ice Cream

Free From: Gluten, Milk and Soya

Retail: £2.20

Everyone can cool down this summer and enjoy Asda Free From Vanilla Flavour Ice Cream.

 OMV! Deliciously Vegan By Asda,  Burger Mayo

Free From: Egg

Retail: £1.50

The perfect accompaniment to BBQ season, this 100% vegan burger mayo with flavours of gherkin, American style mustard and tomato impressed judges and won Silver at the Free From Food Awards. It’s sure to be a winner with all guests at summer gatherings.

OMV! Deliciously Vegan By Asda Saag Masala Cooking Sauce

Retail: £2.00

Everyone can enjoy curry night with OMV! Deliciously Vegan Saag Masala Cooking Sauce. A tomato, spinach and creamed coconut sauce with a blend of spices, guests will be left wanting more!

Asda Free From 4 White Rolls

Free From: Gluten, Milk and Egg

Retail: £1.75

BBQ, picnics or mid-week lunch, enjoy all the flavour without missing out with Silver awarded Free From White Rolls.

Shop in store and online at asda.com.

(That's Food and Drink says: "It's good to know that major retailers are working so hard to provide good quality Free From Foods. My wife needs to avoid gluten and soya, so we are aware of the Free From struggle. Well done, Asda!)

That sounds sweet! Sainsbury’s Nectar Prices now available on fresh fruit and vegetables

Following the launch of Nectar Prices earlier this year, Sainsbury’s is now expanding its loyalty programme by introducing offers on fresh produce for the first time ever.

Nectar’s 18 million users can now access a wide range of fresh fruit and vegetables at a lower price, helping them make big savings when shopping in Sainsbury’s supermarkets or online.

As of now, customers can get great Nectar Prices on a variety of popular fresh fruit and veg items including by Sainsbury’s Strawberries (usually £2.25, Nectar Price £1.75), by Sainsbury's Easy Peelers (usually £1.35, Nectar Price £1), Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Vittoria Cherry Vine Tomatoes (usually £2.25, Nectar Price £1.75) and by Sainsbury’s Medium Ripe & Ready Avocados (usually £1.60, Nectar Price £1.20).

Customers will also be able to enjoy up to half price on selected products like household staples such as by Sainsbury’s Best of British apples (usually £1.70, Nectar Price 85p) and Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Jersey Royal Potatoes (usually £3, Nectar Price £1.50).

For the first time ever, Nectar Prices will also be available on a selection of branded ready meals like Wasabi Chicken Katsu Curry with Rice (usually £4.25, Nectar Price £3.75) and Charlie Bigham's Lasagne (usually £9.50, Nectar Price £7). 

Sainsbury’s own-brand ready meals including Taste the Difference and by Sainsbury’s products will also be included with great offers on family favourites like Taste the Difference Fish Pie (usually £4.25, Nectar Price £3.75), by Sainsbury’s Chicken Tikka Masala (usually £4.25, Nectar Price £3.75) and by Sainsbury’s Stonebaked Margherita Pizza (usually £3.50, Nectar Price £1.75).

As a result of the expansion into two new categories Sainsbury’s now has over 2,800 products included in Nectar Prices, helping millions of customers to save money whenever they shop with the retailer. Since the launch of Nectar Prices in April, shoppers have saved over £83 million, with customers saving an average of £3.20 each and every time they shop.

Sam Burston, Director of Nectar & Loyalty at Sainsbury’s, said: “We’re always looking for new ways to provide great value to our customers all-year round, helping customers make their money go further. With new offers now available on fresh produce and ready meals, shoppers can now access lower prices on a wider range of essential everyday items. We’re delighted that Nectar Prices has proven popular with our customers so far, and we’ll continue to expand it further in the future.”

Already a Nectar customer? All existing Nectar customers need to do to benefit from Nectar Prices is scan their app or swipe their card at checkout to save. Customers shopping online will have their discounts applied automatically if their Nectar and Sainsbury’s accounts are linked.

Want to become a Nectar customer? Shoppers can sign up to Nectar Prices by joining on the Nectar app, online at www.nectar.com, or by picking up a Nectar card in store.

Tesco backs healthy eating

Tesco has announced its voluntary commitment to not sell HFSS products through volume-led promotions, as part of its ongoing plans to help customers eat a more healthy diet.

Following the Government announcement that restrictions on multibuy deals on foods high in fat, salt or sugar (HFSS) are to be delayed further until 2025, Tesco confirmed it will continue to keep volume-led promotions on HFSS products off its shelves. This will support its commitment to make Tesco the easiest place for customers to shop for affordable, healthy, sustainable food.​

While Tesco will continue to offer value on products across the entire store, this move means customers will not have to purchase more HFSS products than they need to access great value. 

A spokesman said: "With household budgets stretched, it’s more important than ever that Tesco invests in competitive prices. In response, Tesco has further increased Aldi Price Match to around 700 products, price-locked over 1,000 products at Low Everyday Prices and extended Clubcard Prices to over 8,000 lines.

"Also, we’ve made it even easier for customers to access healthy and affordable food through our Better Baskets campaign, which helps remove price as a barrier to making healthier, more sustainable choices. The majority of products highlighted as part of the Better Basket’s promotion will be at Clubcard Prices, Low Everyday Prices or in Aldi Price Match items".

Today’s announcement is part of its broader commitment to support customers to lead healthier and more sustainable lives and achieve the goal to boost sales of healthy products to 65% as a proportion of total sales by 2025. 

It's consistent with the work Tesco has been doing for many years, including Reformulation of its Own Brand ranges which has contributed to the removal of 71 billion calories so far, putting it well on track to delivering its 100 billion calorie reduction ambition by 2025. 

Tesco Group Chief Product Officer Ashwin Prasad said: “ Tesco will continue to offer great value on products across the entire store, so customers won’t have to purchase more food than they need to access great value. Our mission is to make Tesco the easiest place to shop for a healthy, more sustainable basket – while keeping the cost of the weekly shop in check. We know that customers want to eat a more healthy, sustainable diet, but without having to stretch the weekly shopping budget and we are really proud to be leading the way in maintaining our commitment”

www.tesco.com

Price cuts in Morrisons

In line with a number of other supermarket chains, Morrisons has announced cuts in the prices of nearly 50 food items, with an average price cut by over 25% 

As part of what it's dubbing "a rolling wave of price cuts to help with the cost of living", Morrisons has announced a new round of reductions, the sixth so far this year, which will apply to products in all its supermarkets and includes summer favourites, cupboard fillers and fresh essentials.

47 high-volume products have been cut in price by an average of over 25%, with the new prices being held for a minimum of eight weeks to help customers get more for their money.  Morrisons has invested £26 million in today's cuts to deliver market leading prices on key products and reinforce its commitment to saving customers money wherever possible. 

The price cuts include fresh items such as mince, tomatoes and butter, cupboard staples such as squash and cereal and picnic classics like pitta breads and scotch eggs.

Last month, Morrisons reduced or held the price of a further 1,000 products which will remain locked low until mid July. Offers have also been applied to fuel in recent weeks with customers being able to get 5p off every litre after spending £35 in store or online. 

As well as cutting the prices on products, Morrisons recently relaunched its More Card loyalty programme to allow customers to collect points on fuel and selected products in store which can be converted into ‘Morrisons Fivers’ and spent in store or online.  Morrisons programme of market-leading exclusive offers, which launched last October for loyalty card members, also remains a key feature of the new scheme.  

Rachel Eyre, who is the Chief Customer and Marketing Officer at Morrisons, said: “Providing great quality products at affordable prices for our customers is a key priority at Morrisons. Our steady flow of deep and broad price cutting programmes, together with our new More Card loyalty scheme, are helping customers save money on their weekly shop. Today’s price cuts include picnic items to help our customers make the most of the warm weather and we’ve not forgotten the fridge and cupboard essentials either.”

www.morrisons.com