The Popping Past: The Fascinating Discovery of Popcorn

Popcorn may seem like the ultimate modern snack, the go-to treat for movie nights, cosy evenings, and quick, crunchy cravings. 

But did you know that popcorn has been enjoyed by humans for thousands of years? 

Far from being a recent culinary invention, popcorn has a rich and ancient history rooted in early agricultural societies.

Popcorn’s Ancient Origins

Popcorn is a specific variety of maize (Zea mays everta, for those eager to know), with kernels containing a tiny drop of moisture inside a dense starchy shell. 

When heated, that moisture turns into steam, building pressure until the kernel bursts open, “popping” into the fluffy snack we all know and love.

The oldest popcorn ever discovered dates back around 5,600 years. Archaeologists found these ancient kernels in a cave in New Mexico known as the Bat Cave,  and remarkably, some of them could still pop! 

These early discoveries proved that ancient peoples in the Americas were cultivating and consuming popcorn long before the advent of modern farming techniques.

A Snack with Spiritual Roots

In Aztec society, popcorn wasn’t just food, it had ceremonial significance. It was used in rituals and offerings to gods such as Tlaloc (the god of rain and fertility), and even adorned statues as garlands. The Aztecs also wore popcorn in their hair during celebrations.

Similarly, evidence from Peru, Mexico, and Central America shows that popcorn was both a staple snack and part of early religious and cultural customs. Popping corn was likely seen as magical, after all, it dramatically transforms from a hard, inedible seed into a soft, edible delight.

Popcorn Meets the Modern World

Popcorn’s introduction to European settlers came through interactions with Indigenous peoples in the Americas. Early colonial writings from the 1600s mention Native Americans popping corn and offering it to the colonists. 

During the 19th century, popcorn became increasingly popular at fairs and carnivals across North America.

The real popcorn boom, however, came with the invention of the steam-powered popcorn machine by Charles Cretors in 1885. 

This innovation made it possible to sell freshly popped corn on city streets, at circuses, and in theatres. By the time the Great Depression hit, popcorn’s affordability made it one of the few luxuries people could enjoy.

Ironically, popcorn was not always welcome in cinemas. Early theatre owners feared that crunchy snacks would distract from the highbrow atmosphere they hoped to create.  But that attitude didn’t last long, as film evolved into mass entertainment, popcorn quickly became synonymous with the silver screen.

Popcorn Today

From butter-drenched tubs to gourmet flavours like truffle, caramel, chilli-lime, and sea salt, popcorn has come a long way since its ancient roots. It’s now a global snack, enjoyed everywhere from home kitchens to high-end restaurants, and even as a health-conscious alternative to crisps — depending, of course, on how it’s prepared!

So next time you hear that familiar pop-pop-pop from the microwave or cookertop, remember: you’re not just making a snack, you’re taking part in a tradition thousands of years old. From ancient rituals to modern movie nights, popcorn has truly stood the test of time.

Bento Box Ideas for Summer Adventures – The Ultimate Portable Feast?

If you’ve ever browsed social media and seen perfectly portioned, colourful lunchboxes packed with tasty bites and delicate presentation, chances are you’ve encountered a bento box. 

Originating in Japan, a bento is more than just a packed lunch: It's a portable, thoughtfully curated meal designed for both balance and beauty. And during the summer months, bento boxes become the perfect companion for picnics, beach outings, road trips, or park lunches. Or even work lunches, too.

What Exactly Is a Bento Box?

A bento box is a single-portion meal traditionally packed in a compact, compartmentalised container. It typically contains a mix of protein (such as fish, meat, or tofu), rice or noodles, and a variety of vegetables and fruits. The key is balance, not only in taste and nutrition but also in texture and colour.

Bento boxes are hugely popular in Japan, not just for their practicality but for the care and creativity put into their assembly. They've since become a still growing global trend, with people customising them to suit all sorts of diets, preferences, and occasions.

Why Take a Bento Box on Your Summer Adventures?

Portability: Bento boxes are designed to travel well.

No muss, no fuss: No need for multiple containers or cutlery – everything’s in one tidy package.

Healthy and balanced: The compartments naturally encourage variety and portion control.

Instagrammable appeal: Let’s be honest, they’re lovely to look at!

Summer-Inspired Bento Box Ideas

Here are some refreshing and fun ideas for packing your own summer-themed bento:

1. Mediterranean Breeze Bento

Main: Couscous salad with roasted peppers, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and feta

Protein: Lemon and herb grilled chicken skewers or falafel

Veg: Hummus with carrot and celery sticks

Treat: A few pieces of baklava or seedless grapes

2. Vegan Summer Picnic Bento

Main: Chilled soba noodles with sesame dressing and edamame

Protein: Teriyaki tofu slices

Veg: Pickled radish, shredded carrot and cucumber ribbons

Treat: Fresh mango chunks or a matcha mochi

3. British Garden Party Bento

Main: Mini crustless cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches

Protein: Slices of boiled egg with a dash of black pepper

Veg: Pea and mint salad

Treat: A mini scone with jam and a dollop of clotted cream

4. Kids’ Summer Fun Bento

Main: Cheese and tomato pinwheels (puff pastry or wraps)

Protein: Mini turkey meatballs or veggie nuggets

Veg: Sweetcorn and cherry tomatoes

Treat: Watermelon stars or mini jelly pots

5. Sushi-Inspired Bento

Main: Avocado and cucumber sushi rolls

Protein: Tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelette)

Veg: Seaweed salad or pickled ginger

Treat: Lychee or a few Pocky sticks

Tips for Packing a Great Summer Bento

Keep it cool: Use an insulated bag and ice packs if your bento contains perishables such as clotted cream, above.

Balance is key: Aim for a variety of textures and flavours.

Use colour playfully: Employ Play vibrant, bright ingredients to make your box appealing and appetising.

Prep ahead: Many components can be made the night before and stored in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're heading to a music festival, hiking in the hills, or simply planning a family day out in the park, a bento box is your perfect summer mealtime solution. Not only will you have a delicious, balanced meal at your fingertips, but you’ll also be able to avoid soggy sandwiches and overpriced snacks.

So why not channel your inner Japanese homemaker this summer and start curating your own edible artwork on-the-go?

More delicious news as SHORE wraps up a successful summer with Two Wins at the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards

We have featured SHORE on previous occasions and we are thrilled to an announce that  SHORE was rightfully honoured with the titles of Snack & Accompaniments Product of the Year and Healthier Choice Product of the Year for their Seaweed Chips.

After a recent run of major supermarket listings in Scotland, SHORE, The Scottish Seaweed Company (SHORE), has followed the success with two major awards at the 23rd Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards, which recognise outstanding food and drink businesses across the country.

SHORE was honoured with the titles of Snack & Accompaniments Product of the Year and Healthier Choice Product of the Year for their Seaweed Chips, delicious snacks that are not only better for you but also better for the planet. too.

These accolades reinforce SHORE’s ongoing commitment to transforming sustainable, locally sourced Scottish seaweed into nutritious products that taste absolutely delicious.

With recent launches in both Tesco and Morrisons, along with a new Salt & Balsamic flavour being launched in Sainsbury’s and introduced early last month, the last several months have been a remarkable journey for the brand.

“We're obviously thrilled to receive this prestigious Scottish award” said Keith Paterson, head of SHORE. “It’s a strong endorsement of our Seaweed Chips, a product proudly made here in Scotland from a uniquely sustainable Scottish food source. 

"This summer, it’s been a privilege not only to be gaining traction with major retailers but also to resonate with food and drink professionals within the Scotland F&D industry itself.”

SHORE’s Seaweed Chips are now available in select Tesco, Morrisons, Co-op, and Sainsbury’s branches across Scotland. The new Salt & Balsamic flavour has recently been added to their Sainsbury’s range. All flavours can also be found in hundreds of independent stores across the country, as well as in Holland & Barrett and Booths locations nationwide.

That's Food and Drink believes that these SHORE Seaweed Chips will make a tasty and healthy addition to the snack tables at many Christmas parties this December!

https://www.shoreseaweed.com

The Art and Science of Healthy and Tasty Snacking

Snacking often gets a bad rap, associated with unhealthy choices and guilty pleasures. However, snacking doesn't have to be detrimental to your health. 

With a little creativity and mindfulness, you can enjoy snacks that are both nutritious and delicious. 

Let's explore some strategies and ideas for healthy and tasty snacking that will keep you energised and satisfied throughout the day.

The Importance of Healthy Snacking

Healthy snacking plays a crucial role in maintaining balanced energy levels, preventing overeating at main meals, and providing essential nutrients. It can support weight management, improve concentration, and enhance overall well-being. The key is to choose snacks that combine flavour with nutritional benefits, ensuring that every bite contributes positively to your diet.

Smart Snacking Strategies

Balance is Key: Aim for a combination of macronutrients – proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. This balance helps stabilise blood sugar levels and keeps you feeling full for longer.

Portion Control: Pay attention to portion sizes to avoid consuming too many calories. Pre-portioning snacks can prevent mindless eating and help you stay on track.

Choose Whole Foods: Opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible. Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are excellent choices that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre.

Hydration Matters: Sometimes, thirst can be mistaken for hunger. Ensure you're drinking enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support your overall health.

Tasty and Nutritious Snack Ideas

Greek Yoghurt with Berries: Greek yoghurt is rich in protein and probiotics, while berries add a burst of antioxidants and natural sweetness. Top with a sprinkle of chia seeds for added omega-3s and fibre.

Hummus and Veggie Sticks: Hummus, made from chickpeas, is a great source of plant-based protein and fibre. Pair it with crunchy vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a satisfying and colourful snack.

Apple Slices with Nut Butter: Apples are high in fibre and vitamins, while nut butters like almond or peanut butter provide healthy fats and protein. This combination is both tasty and filling.

Mixed Nuts and Dried Fruit: A small handful of mixed nuts and dried fruit makes for a convenient, nutrient-dense snack. Choose unsweetened and unsalted varieties to keep it healthy.

Avocado Toast: Whole grain toast topped with mashed avocado is a delicious way to get your healthy fats and fibre. Add a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon for extra flavour.

Cottage Cheese and Pineapple: Cottage cheese is high in protein and calcium. Pair it with fresh pineapple for a sweet and tangy treat that’s also refreshing.

Dark Chocolate and Almonds: Sometimes, a bit of indulgence is in order. Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) combined with almonds provides a perfect blend of antioxidants and healthy fats.

Roasted Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, savoury snack that’s rich in protein and fibre. Season with your favourite spices for a flavourful twist.

Making Snacking a Joyful Experience

Healthy snacking doesn’t have to be boring or bland. Experiment with different flavours, textures, and ingredients to keep your snacks interesting and enjoyable. Preparing your snacks in advance can also make healthy choices more convenient, reducing the temptation to reach for less nutritious options.

Remember, snacking is an opportunity to nourish your body and delight your taste buds. By making mindful choices and embracing the variety of wholesome foods available, you can turn snacking into a positive and satisfying part of your daily routine. Enjoy your journey towards healthier, tastier snacking!

Fuelling Your On-the-Go Lifestyle: Healthy Snack Ideas

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to sit down and enjoy a full meal can be challenging.

Whether you're rushing between work meetings, shuttling kids to activities, or travelling, it's easy to succumb to the temptation of grabbing a quick, unhealthy snack. 

However, with a little planning and creativity, you can fuel your on-the-go lifestyle with nutritious snacks that provide sustained energy and keep you feeling satisfied. Here are some healthy snack ideas to keep you going when you're on the move and out and about:

Mixed Nuts and Seeds: A handful of mixed nuts and seeds is a convenient and satisfying snack packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are excellent choices. You can portion them out into small resealable bags or containers for easy grab-and-go convenience.

Greek Yogurt Parfait: Greek yogurt is a rich source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, making it an ideal snack for a busy day. Layer it with fresh berries, granola, and a drizzle of honey for a delicious and nutritious parfait. Prep these in advance in portable containers for a quick and easy snack option.

Hard-Boiled Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs are a portable snack that's rich in protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D and B vitamins. Prepare a batch at the beginning of the week and store them in the fridge for a convenient on-the-go snack option.

Hummus and Veggie Sticks: Hummus is a flavourful dip made from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil, providing a good source of plant-based protein and fibre. Pair it with carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or whole-grain crackers for a satisfying snack that's both nutritious and delicious.

Apple Slices with Nut Butter: Apples are high in fibre and antioxidants, while nut butter adds healthy fats and protein, making this combination a perfect on-the-go snack. Opt for natural nut butter without added sugars or oils for the healthiest option.

Trail Mix: Create your own trail mix by combining nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips for a balanced snack that provides a mix of nutrients and flavours. Portion it into small containers or resealable bags for easy snacking wherever you go.

Rice Cakes with Avocado: Rice cakes are a light and crunchy snack that can be topped with mashed avocado for a boost of healthy fats and fibre. Add a sprinkle of sea salt or red pepper flakes for extra flavuor.

Edamame: Edamame, or young soybeans, are a nutrient-rich snack that's packed with protein, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals. Enjoy them steamed and lightly salted for a satisfying on-the-go option.

Cottage Cheese with Pineapple: Cottage cheese is a low-fat, high-protein snack that pairs well with fresh pineapple chunks for a sweet and savoury flavour combination. Pack them in a portable container for a nutritious snack to enjoy anywhere.

Veggie Wraps: Fill whole-grain wraps or lettuce leaves with hummus, sliced vegetables, and lean protein such as grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced, portable meal option that's perfect for on-the-go lifestyles.

Incorporating these healthy snack ideas into your on-the-go lifestyle can help you stay fuelled and energised throughout the day while providing your body with the nutrients it needs to thrive. With a little preparation and creativity, eating healthy on the move can be both convenient and delicious. So next time you're rushing out the door, grab one of these nutritious snacks and enjoy the benefits of nourishing your body wherever your day takes you.

The Hidden Dangers Lurking in Over-Processed Foods: A Wake-Up Call for Better Health

In the hustle and bustle of our modern lives, convenience often takes precedence over nutrition. We live in an era where processed foods reign supreme, offering quick and easy solutions to our busy schedules. 

From packaged snacks to microwave meals, the appeal of these products is absolutely undeniable. However, beneath their enticing convenience lies a dark reality: the health risks associated with over-processed foods.

What exactly are over-processed foods? Simply put, they are products that have been heavily altered from their natural state through various methods such as refining, cooking, and preserving. Think of your typical fast food items, sugary cereals, canned soups, and even seemingly harmless granola bars. While these items may seem harmless at first glance, their consumption can have detrimental effects on our health.

One of the most concerning aspects of over-processed foods is their high levels of added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium. These ingredients are often used to enhance flavour, texture, and shelf life but come at a significant cost to our well-being. 

Excessive sugar intake has been linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even certain types of cancer. Similarly, consuming high amounts of unhealthy fats can lead to elevated cholesterol levels and an increased risk of cardiovascular issues. Additionally, excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure and kidney problems.

But it's not just what over-processed foods contain that poses a threat, it's also what they lack, too. Many of these products are stripped of essential nutrients during their processing, leaving them devoid of the vitamins, minerals, and fibre that our bodies need to function optimally. As a result, regular consumption of over-processed foods can lead to nutritional deficiencies and a weakened immune system.

Furthermore, the additives and preservatives commonly found in these products have raised concerns among some health experts. Chemicals such as artificial flavours, colours, and preservatives have been linked to various health issues, including allergic reactions, digestive problems, and neurological disorders. While these additives may extend the shelf life of over-processed foods, they come with a host of potential risks to our health.

So, what can we do to protect ourselves from the risks and dangers of over-processed foods? The answer lies in making conscious choices and decisions about what we put into our bodies. 

Instead of reaching for that pre-packaged snack or ready meal, opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever this is possible. Stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Not only will these foods nourish your body with essential nutrients, but they'll also support your overall health and well-being, too.

Additionally, take the time to read food labels carefully and familiarise yourself with the ingredients lists. Choose products with minimal additives and preservatives, and prioritise items that are low in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium. By becoming a more informed consumer, you can empower yourself to make healthier choices for you and your family.

In conclusion, the health risks associated with over-processed foods are real and significant. From obesity and diabetes to heart disease and cancer, the consequences of consuming these products can be dire. However, by prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods and minimizing our intake of over-processed products, we can take control of our health and reduce our risk of chronic disease. Let's make the conscious choice to nourish our bodies with the wholesome foods they deserve.

Feast for a Fiver as Waitrose ‘wraps’ up your lunchtimes with a new meal deal

Waitrose customers will be able to get a sandwich, a wrap, salad or sushi, plus a snack and a drink for a Fiver.

And what's more, the Waitrose Food to Go range is made without compromising quality and also adhering to high animal welfare standards.

The new Waitrose meal deal will launch on 30th August. For £5 customers can opt from over 300 products and can decide on one of their sandwiches, wraps or salads, or sushi (from a special selected range), alongside a choice of snacks from a curated selection of cereal bars, crisps and snack pots, plus a drink. 

Options available within the offer include customer faves like their Essential Waitrose Cheese & Onion sandwich, PlantLiving No Duck Hoisin Wrap, Waitrose Prawn Mayo sandwich, Waitrose Chicken & Bacon Caesar wrap, Waitrose PlantLiving VLT, Waitrose Chicken, Tomato & Basil Pasta, Taiko Crispy Duck Rolls, Waitrose Flapjack, Waitrose LoveLife Nuts, Fruit & Seeds, Deliciously Ella Cashew Cranberry Fruit Nut & Seed Bar, Waitrose Pineapple Fingers (120g), Waitrose Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice and Waitrose Strawberry & Banana Smoothie. 

Jennifer Moscardini, who is Waitrose's Food to Go Buyer, said: “We’re a nation of sandwich lovers. Sales are up almost 40% over the past three years. More people are returning to work from their offices again, and travelling more, so obviously they're looking for a fantastic meal deal option. 

“This lunchtime deal means our customers will be able to get a great quality sandwich, wrap, salad or sushi, plus a snack and a drink for £5, and if they have a myWaitrose loyalty card, and a reusable cup they can get a free cup of coffee at the same time!"

She went on to say: "And we haven't compromised on our standards, either. We use British higher welfare chicken, pork & beef in all our sandwiches, MSC prawns and salmon, and all our eggs come from free range hens. 

“This year we’ve introduced more meal deals than ever before to help our customers with the cost of living crisis, plus investing £100m in new lower prices across our aisles, too.

"Our best-selling sandwich over the last ten years has been prawn mayonnaise, followed by Egg Mayonnaise and the Classic BLT - but now wraps have become increasingly popular with one in four people buying a wrap instead."

List of top ten best-selling sandwiches 10 years ago:

Waitrose Prawn mayonnaise

Waitrose Egg mayonnaise and cress

Waitrose Classic BLT

Essential Waitrose Tuna Mayo 

Waitrose Smoked Ham & Cheese

Essential Waitrose Egg Mayonnaise

Essential Waitrose cheese & onion

Waitrose Salmon & Cucumber

Waitrose Salmon & Cream Cheese

Waitrose Chicken & Bacon 

List of top ten best-selling sandwiches/wraps today:

Waitrose Prawn mayonnaise sandwich 

Waitrose Essential Cheese and Onion

Waitrose Essential Egg mayonnaise sandwich 

Waitrose Steak & caramelised onion chutney sandwich

Waitrose Hoisin duck wrap 

Waitrose Chicken & Bacon Caesar wrap 

Waitrose Essential Tuna mayonnaise sandwich 

Waitrose Salt Beef & Mustard Mayonnaise sandwich 

Waitrose Salmon & Cream Cheese sandwich 

Waitrose Classic BLT 

waitrose.co.uk

Aldi launches garlic bread crisps

Aldi have announced the absolutely ultimate combo this month. Aldi has merged two incredibly popular snacks, garlic bread and crisps, to create a tasty treat. New Specially Selected Garlic Bread Crisps!

The Specially Selected Garlic Bread Crinkle Cut Crisps, just £1.15 (150g), will be hitting the shelves on 30th July, the first of its kind to grace a UK supermarket’s aisles.

Packed full of fantastic flavours, shoppers will be hit with the delicious taste of smoky garlic, whilst experiencing the hearty crunch of Aldi’s premium Specially Selected crinkle cut crisp style.

What’s more, Aldi shoppers will be able to continue to explore tantalising new flavours this July with the Specially Selected Croque-Monsieur Crinkle Cut Crisps, also just £1.15 (150g). 

Boasting the classic popular cheese and ham flavour, these French inspired savoury goodies will also arrive to stores on 30th July.

The perfect dinner party nibble or ultimate partner to any summer picnic, both flavours of these luxuriously quirky crisps are set to have shoppers saying oh-la-la!

These mouth-watering new releases will be available to buy in stores nationwide and via Click and Collect from 30th July.

Graze Launches Decadent New Sticky Toffee Flavour Inspired by Britain’s Beloved Dessert

Those clever chaps and chapettes at graze, -the UK’s top healthy snaking brand, has just launched a delicious new product, Sticky Toffee Oat Boosts, which is aiming to provide us Brits with a nostalgically tasty yet healthy snack that pays homage to the taste of the nation’s much-loved pudding.

The indulgent new Oat Boosts are bursting with decadent flavour and combine rich treacle, sticky dates and rolled wholegrain oats into an easy on-the-go flapjack. 

The bars join other ultimately moreish flavours in the Oat Boost range like Lemon Blueberry, Cocoa Vanilla, Cherry Bakewell and Peanut Butter. 

The delicious snacks are available in packs of four and can be enjoyed on their own, as an accompaniment to a hot cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate, or as a post-workout treat.

graze firmly believes that no one should ever have to compromise on taste, and the new Sticky Toffee Oat Boosts reflect this. As their chefs have expertly combining simple, wholesome ingredients to recreate the household famous, mouth-watering flavour.

Each Sticky Toffee Oat Boost is 122 kcals per serving and has 45% less sugar than the average cereal bar. Like the rest of the graze Oat Boost range, the delectable bar is high in fibre and free from artificial flavours and preservatives.

Healthy snackers lovers will be able to pick up the new graze Sticky Toffee Oat Boosts at Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose, WHSmith and via Amazon, with more stockists on the way soon. Sticky Toffee Oat Boosts are priced at a RRP of £2.75 (120g) for a box of four.

Eleanor McClelland, who is the graze Head of Food at graze said: “We know many Brits feel it’s hard to find snacks that both taste good and are also healthy, with recent research showing 20% of us struggle to find healthy and tasty snacks when we're out shopping. Our new Sticky Toffee Oat is first  in spontaneous awareness for healthy snacking brands."

Snacking? Get Boundless

Snacking, the censorious will tell you, is bad. However, that's not the case. Snacking is ideal for people who are always on the go or who need to keep glucose levels under sensible control, for example. However, the censorious have it partially correct. Mindless snacking can't be good for us. So, that would mean that mindful snacking must be good for us, yes?

Yes! Yes indeed! And if you check out the wonderful offerings from Boundless Gut Happy Snacking you'll be able to indulge your snacking requirements in a way that will fit in very nicely with the healthier lifestyle that we are aspiring to.

They are gluten free, vegan friendly, high fibre, good gut health and high in protein. All good boxes to tick, but Boundless ticks one more equally important box, that of tasting great!

What's available? Chips: Sour cheese and onion, Smokey Bacon, Sea salt and vinegar, Chipotle and Lime.

Nuts and seeds including Cayenne and rosemary, Turmeric and smoked paprika, Orange and maple syrup, Smoky BBQ nuts and seeds, Sweet chilli nuts and seeds, Salt and chilli pepper nuts and seeds.

Just check them out and place your orders here:- https://weareboundless.co.uk/.

“Captain Tiptoes and the Occasional Snack Company!”

Full of fun? Yes! Indeed! But Captain Tiptoes also has a serious pedigree. “When everyone else seems to be going down the health and nutrition route in a bid to attract consumers the tone can sometimes be a little preachy and pious.  

"We felt that something a tad leftfield and thoroughly buffoonish to make folk smile and relax is just the ticket right now – especially in this current climate.  Having said that, be under no illusions that we don’t take our food seriously.  We do. Everything we source, roast, puff and season inside the packs is as good as it can possibly be,” said Giles Henschel, newly moustached founder of Captain Tiptoes and award-winning Dorset food company Olives Et Al. 

Now Captain Tiptoes has joined the band and the new snacks need to be tasted – especially the *Wasabi Flaming Rice........phew!   Arriving perfectly preened and packaged for the very first performance are;

Irresistibly taut Cajun Spiced Nuts

Grippingly stout Fire Cracker Rice puffs    

Courageously pert Chilli Harissa Nuts

Undeniably crisp Salt & Pepper Nuts

Redoubtably firm Wasabi Flaming Rice Fire Balls

Who is Captain Tiptoes?  We know the Captain is always well buffed, snipped, clipped, neatly trimmed and eagerly wishes to present, for your delight and edification, a brand new range of snacks with a curious twist, a knowing smile and the occasional moustache. 

The journey never just ends at the bottom of the bag. Everyone’s invited to join the Captain’s Troop (or is it a troupe?) of Occasional Snacketeers with a dive-in-able website packed full of the Captain’s own inimitable style of lollygagging tomfoolery that’ll be right up your alley.  You can go on-line at www.captaintiptoes.com and ‘tache yourself up and then upload your photo. 

Let your imagination loose.  Expand your chest, blow out your cheeks, take a bag and join Captain Tiptoes on a journey into the land of buffoonish snacketeering.  

Retail price: £1.25 (big bag) £2.00 (bigger bag) as Captain Tiptoes has just arrived on the snack stage, look out for packs in good food shops, wine shops, cinemas, on aeroplanes, bars and other unusual places... 

Climb aboard, hold on tight, have a peek and a nibble.  Call Captain Tiptoes and his troop on 01258 474300 or email ahoy@captaintiptoes.com

Although Captain Tiptoes is chock full of fun and a fair share of buffoonery, it does have some very serious  credentials.  Captain Tiptoes’ snacks are the latest idea of artisan nut-roasters Olives Et Al in Dorset – known for winning awards for being olivey and saucy.  

Every ingredient in each Captain Tiptoes pack has been carefully and lovingly chosen for the best tasting results. Made with carefully sourced, all natural ingredients, which are then kiln-roasted with bags of know-how and more than a little secrecy at each stage of the roasting process - Captain Tiptoes may be the new moustache on everyone’s lips, but there are years of splendid snackage expertise up the Captain’s sleeve!

(*EDITOR: My wife is now a very firm convert to the Wasabi Flaming Rice Fire Balls. The only trouble is, I do not think that there will be any left from any packets we buy for our weekend barbecues!)

Go nuts for Wonderful Pistachios!

It appears as though pistachio green is everywhere this season. You'll be seeing it everywhere. From top designer shoes and bags, to home accessories, décor and beauty products.

However, why not go back to basics? Get yourself some Wonderful Pistachios to munch on! Wonderful Pistachios are not only merely delicious, but with only three or four calories per nut and with masses of important nutrients, they are also the perfect snack for those of us who like a bite or two, but who need to watch out weight.

Wonderful Pistachios are available in two delicious flavours, Roasted and Salt n’ Pepper, and come in stylish green and black packaging.  Take on a picnic, off to the beach or share them with friends and family at the BBQ, or as a desk snack or mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or as part of your healthy lunch.

Just watch out for the distinctive Wonderful Pistachios packs. You'll spot them in Tesco, Holland & Barratt and Julian Graves (RRP £2.49).

Here's a twist! It's World Pretzel Day!

We kid you not! 26th April is World Pretzel Day! The Pretzel is reputedly the world's oldest snake food, so it is only fitting that the Pretzel should have its own special day.

The top-selling UK Pretzel brand, Penn State Snacks, is really going for it on World Pretzel Day (26 April) with a series of giveaways and bits of pure fun! And they, naturally, want YOU to join in!

Dating back to the sixth century monks, the pretzel is said to be the world’s oldest snack and with a wide variety of flavours, including sour cream and chive and sweet and spicy salsa - Penn State Snacks has something for everyone to enjoy. (EDITOR: In my opinion, you cannot beat the sour cream and chive flavour!)

Penn State was the first company to make Pretzels in the UK, they started production of their original sea salted pretzel flavour way back in 1996. Since then their popularity has grown and the British pretzel now has a firm fan base. 

Pretzels are now the snack of choice for millions of people around the world who crave a healthy yet delicious alternative to the standard crisp. With Penn State pretzels starting at just 94 calories and only three WeightWatchers ProPoints per 25 gram serving, it’s not hard to see why.

Steve Harger, from Intersnack, the company behind the Penn State brand said: “The average American consumes approximately 1.5 pounds of pretzels a year and we want to put the pretzel on the map here in Britain. With Penn State you can indulge in some guilt free snacking as all our products are baked, not fried and much healthier than many other snacks on the market.

“There are so many ways for people to embrace World Pretzel day. Pretzels are the perfect snack to share with others, so on April 26, why not take some packs to work to share with colleagues or invite the girls around for a night in with a girly film and some pretzels and dips? There are plenty of activities for consumers to get involved with online, and many great prizes to giveaway.”

In the build up to World Pretzel Day, Penn State Snacks is on the hunt to find the ultimate pretzel fan and is challenging members of its Facebook and Twitter sites: http://www.facebook.com/pennstatesnacks and http://twitter.com/Pennstatesnacks to prove their dedication by following a series of pretzel related challenges.

(EDITOR: And they make an ideal addition to any BBQ and a fun snack for your Royal Wedding Party!)

Royal Wedding Street Party Necessities from Ginsters

As Britain prepares for the most high profile Royal Wedding since Charles and Diana, Cornish savoury pastry brand Ginsters has a great selection of party treats to choose from for celebrations taking place across the nation to mark the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton on April 29th. (EDITOR: So, why bother making sandwiches for 20 guests when you can Ginsters to cater fro your Royal Wedding bash?!)

Whether seeking sandwiches for traditional themed British tea parties, or wholesome snacks to feed street party masses, no celebration should be without new Ginsters Spicy Pork Roll. Adding a hot twist to a British party staple, Ginsters Spicy Pork Rolls are made with locally sourced fresh British sausage meat stuffed full of aromatic jalapenos and Cajun spices. These delicious rolls can be easily sliced into bite-size chunks for the perfect party finger food.

The obligatory sandwich platter is a must at your celebratory bash, so why not set the scene by offering a mouthwatering selection of Egg and Cress, Chicken and Mayo, Ham and Cheese or the more exotic new Cheddar and Chilli Jam sandwiches. For traditional party goers, why not try the quintessential Ginsters Tuna and Cucumber sandwich, ideal enjoyed with a nice cup of tea.

Pie lovers will love this yummy new twist on the classic pork pie, with a hint of cheese and pickle, Ginsters Mini Ploughman’s Pork Pies are easily munchable and supply two mini mouthfuls in each pack, more than enough to feed hungry guests at any street party shindig.

For those seeking time-honoured British cuisine, Ginsters is launching a delicious special edition Cheddar and Bacon pasty, just in time for the Royal nuptials. Bursting with flavour, this creamy cheddar and crispy bacon pasty filling is ideal for snacking and sharing with family and friends while celebrating the Royals’ big day.

For more information about Ginsters, please visit: http://www.ginsters.co.uk.

FACTFILE: These are some of the available delicacies from Ginsters:-
Ginsters Spicy Pork Roll pack RRP£1.59
Ginsters Egg and Cress sandwich RRP£1.79
Ginsters Chicken and Mayo sandwich RRP£2.69
Ginsters Ham and Cheese sandwich RRP£2.69
Ginsters Cheddar and Chilli Jam sandwich RRP£2.19
Ginsters Mini Ploughman’s Pork Pies RRP£1.59
Ginsters Cheddar and Bacon pasty RRP£1.99