Discovering Ethical Food and Drink Brands: A Guide for the Conscious Consumer

In today's world, many of us are becoming more mindful of the impact our choices have on the environment, society, and our health. 

As we navigate the aisles of our local supermarkets or browse online shops, it's essential to recognise food and drink brands that align with our values. Here’s how you can find ethical brands with a purpose:

1. Understand What Ethical Means to You

Ethical practices can vary widely, so it's important to define what matters most to you. Some key considerations might include:

Sustainability: Brands that minimise their environmental footprint, use renewable resources, and reduce waste.

Fair Trade: Companies that ensure fair wages and working conditions for their workers.

Animal Welfare: Brands that treat animals humanely and do not support factory farming.

Health and Wellness: Products that are organic, non-GMO, and free from harmful additives.

Community Support: Companies that give back to their communities or support social causes.

2. Look for Certifications

Certifications are a reliable way to identify ethical brands. Some prominent certifications to look for include:

Fairtrade: Ensures fair wages and good working conditions for farmers and workers in developing countries.

Rainforest Alliance: Focuses on sustainable farming, conservation, and improving the lives of farmers.

Organic: Guarantees that products are grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilisers.

B Corp: Companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.

Soil Association: UK's leading organic certification body, ensuring products meet rigorous standards.

3. Research Brands Online

The internet is a treasure trove of information. Websites, social media, and review platforms can provide insights into a brand's ethical practices. Look for:

Company Websites: Check the 'About Us' and 'Sustainability' sections for information on their ethical practices.

Social Media: Follow brands on platforms like Instagram and Twitter to see their latest initiatives and consumer feedback.

Reviews and Blogs: Read reviews and blog posts from trusted sources to get an honest opinion about the brand's ethics.

4. Use Ethical Shopping Apps

Several apps and websites are designed to help consumers make ethical choices. Some popular ones include:

Good On You: Rates fashion brands based on their impact on people, the planet, and animals.

Ethical Consumer: Provides detailed reports and ratings on a wide range of products, including food and drink.

Giki: Offers an app that helps you find sustainable and healthy products by scanning barcodes.

5. Support Local and Independent Brands

Often, smaller, local brands have more transparent and ethical practices compared to large corporations. Visiting farmers' markets, local shops, and food fairs can introduce you to brands that prioritise sustainability and community support.

6. Ask Questions

Don't hesitate to reach out to brands directly. Whether it's through email, social media, or in-person interactions, asking questions about their sourcing, production methods, and ethical practices can provide valuable insights.

7. Stay Informed

The landscape of ethical consumption is ever-evolving. Staying informed about the latest developments, certifications, and brands can help you make better choices. Subscribing to newsletters, joining online communities, and participating in forums can keep you updated.

Conclusion

Finding food and drink brands with purpose and ethics requires a bit of research and a commitment to informed choices. By understanding what matters to you, looking for trusted certifications, using technology, and supporting local businesses, you can enjoy your meals with the confidence that they align with your values. Every purchase you make has the power to support ethical practices and contribute to a better world. Happy ethical shopping!

Embracing Sustainable Gastronomy: A Guide to a Greener Plate

In recent years, the term "sustainable gastronomy" has become increasingly popular. But what does it truly mean, and how can we incorporate it into our daily lives? 

Sustainable gastronomy is about choosing foods and cooking methods that promote environmental, economic, and social well-being. It's about making mindful decisions that benefit our planet and future generations.

The Principles of Sustainable Gastronomy

Local Sourcing: One of the cornerstones of sustainable gastronomy is using locally sourced ingredients. 

This reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances. In the UK, this means visiting local farmers' markets, subscribing to vegetable box schemes, or even growing your own produce.

Seasonality: Eating seasonally ensures that food is fresher, tastier, and more nutritious. Seasonal foods are often less expensive and more environmentally friendly because they don’t require the same level of artificial heating, lighting, and transportation.

Reducing Food Waste: Food waste is a significant issue. In the UK, households throw away around 6.6 million tonnes of food waste every year. Planning meals, using leftovers creatively, and composting organic waste can dramatically reduce this.

Plant-Based Eating: Incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet is another excellent way to practise sustainable gastronomy. Livestock farming is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, so reducing meat consumption can have a significant positive impact.

Ethical Choices: Choosing products that are Fairtrade, organic, or come from sources that practise humane animal treatment ensures that our food choices support ethical and sustainable farming practices.

Practical Steps to Embrace Sustainable Gastronomy

Plan Your Meals: Create a weekly meal plan based on seasonal produce. This not only helps reduce food waste but also makes grocery shopping more efficient.

Shop Locally: Explore farmers’ markets, farm shops, and local butchers. Not only will you be supporting local businesses, but you'll also enjoy fresher and often cheaper produce.

Grow Your Own: Even a small garden or a few pots on a balcony can yield herbs, vegetables, and fruits. This can be a rewarding way to ensure your food is as fresh and local as possible.

Be Mindful of Portions: Serving appropriate portions helps reduce waste. If you do end up with leftovers, get creative with them. Yesterday’s roast vegetables can become today’s hearty soup.

Learn Preservation Techniques: Preserving food through methods like pickling, fermenting, and drying can extend the life of seasonal produce, ensuring you can enjoy it long after the season has ended.

Compost: Composting organic waste reduces the amount of rubbish sent to landfills and provides nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

A Sustainable Recipe to Try

Seasonal Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 onions, chopped

2 carrots, chopped

2 parsnips, chopped

1 leek, sliced

2 potatoes, cubed

1 litre vegetable stock

2 bay leaves

Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or rosemary), chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until soft.

Add the carrots, parsnips, leek, and potatoes. Cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pour in the vegetable stock and add the bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Remove the bay leaves. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.

Stir in the fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste.

This simple, hearty soup highlights the flavours of seasonal vegetables and demonstrates how easy it can be to cook sustainably.

Conclusion

Sustainable gastronomy is about more than just food; it’s a lifestyle choice that supports a healthier planet. By making conscious decisions about what we eat and how we cook, we can enjoy delicious meals while contributing to a more sustainable future. Let's start making those changes today, one meal at a time.

Choosing Ethically Sourced Bottled Water: A Guide to Making a Positive Impact

In today's fast-paced world, bottled water has become a staple for many, offering convenience and hydration on the go. 

However, not all bottled water is created equal, and the choices we make can have significant ethical and environmental implications. 

Here’s a guide to ensuring that the bottled water you purchase is ethically sourced, contributing to both social good and sustainability.

Understanding Ethical Sourcing

Ethical sourcing refers to the practice of ensuring that products are obtained in a responsible and sustainable way, considering the environmental and social impacts of production. For bottled water, this means paying attention to factors such as water source sustainability, fair trade practices, environmental impact, and the treatment of workers involved in the production process.

Why It Matters

Environmental Impact: Bottled water production and disposal have significant environmental footprints. From plastic pollution to the energy used in production and transportation, the choices we make can either exacerbate or mitigate these impacts.

Social Responsibility: Ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for workers, and supporting communities where water is sourced, helps promote social equity and justice.

Health and Safety: Ethically sourced bottled water often comes with assurances of higher quality and safety standards, benefiting your health.

Key Considerations When Buying Ethically Sourced Bottled Water

Certification Labels: Look for certification labels such as Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, or other recognised symbols that indicate ethical sourcing. These labels are often a good starting point in identifying products that adhere to higher ethical standards.

Company Transparency: Research the brand and its sourcing practices. Companies committed to ethical practices are usually transparent about their supply chains, environmental initiatives, and social responsibilities. They will provide information about where and how their water is sourced.

Sustainable Packaging: Consider the packaging. Opt for brands that use recycled materials, biodegradable bottles, or offer innovative solutions to reduce plastic waste. Some companies are now using plant-based plastics or advocating for reusable bottle schemes.

Local Sourcing: Whenever possible, choose locally sourced bottled water. This reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting water over long distances and supports local economies.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Investigate the company’s CSR initiatives. Companies that engage in meaningful CSR activities, such as community development projects, environmental conservation efforts, and supporting clean water access in developing regions, are often more likely to follow ethical practices.

Brands to Consider

While the availability of ethically sourced bottled water can vary by region, here are a few brands known for their commitment to ethical practices:

Ethos Water: Part of the Starbucks brand, Ethos Water is committed to helping children around the world get access to clean water.

One Water: A UK-based brand that donates 100% of its profits to fund clean water projects in developing countries.

Fiji Water: Although it has faced criticism in the past, Fiji Water has made efforts to improve its sustainability practices, including initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and protect the local ecosystem.

Making the Ethical Choice

Being a conscientious consumer means thinking beyond convenience and cost. By choosing ethically sourced bottled water, you can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world. Here are some steps you can take:

Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the issues surrounding bottled water production and the impact of your choices. Knowledge is power when it comes to making ethical decisions.

Support Ethical Brands: Put your money where your values are by supporting brands that prioritise ethical sourcing and sustainability.

Advocate and Spread Awareness: Share information about ethical sourcing with friends and family. Advocacy can lead to broader changes in consumer behaviour and corporate practices.

In conclusion, while bottled water may be a small part of your daily routine, the impact of choosing ethically sourced options can be substantial. 

By making informed choices, you can help protect the environment, support fair labour practices, and contribute to the wellbeing of communities around the world. So, next time you reach for a bottle of water, take a moment to consider the journey it has taken to reach you and the difference you can make with your choice.

Embracing Sustainable Eating and Living: A Guide for the Average British Household

In the face of environmental challenges and a growing awareness of the importance of sustainable living, many households across the UK are seeking practical ways to adopt greener habits. 

This blog post will guide you through the steps to embrace sustainable eating and living, helping to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

1. Prioritise Local and Seasonal Foods

One of the simplest ways to eat sustainably is by prioritising local and seasonal foods. 

By purchasing produce that is in season and grown locally, you reduce the need for long-distance transportation and the associated carbon emissions. Farmers' markets and local grocers often have a wide selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Not only does this support local farmers, but it also ensures fresher and more nutritious food on your plate.

2. Reduce Meat and Dairy Consumption

Livestock farming is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing your meat and dairy intake, even by a small amount, you can make a substantial impact. Consider adopting "Meat-Free Mondays" or experimenting with plant-based recipes. When you do purchase meat, opt for sustainably sourced, organic options.

3. Minimise Food Waste

Food waste is a major issue, with millions of tonnes discarded annually in the UK. To combat this, plan your meals carefully, create a shopping list, and avoid impulse buys. Store food properly to extend its shelf life, and get creative with leftovers. Composting food scraps is another excellent way to reduce waste and enrich your garden soil.

4. Choose Sustainable Packaging

Plastic pollution is a pressing environmental issue. Aim to reduce your use of single-use plastics by choosing products with minimal or eco-friendly packaging. Bring your own reusable bags, containers, and cups when shopping or dining out. Many shops now offer refill stations for items like grains, pulses, and cleaning products, further cutting down on packaging waste.

5. Support Ethical Brands

Supporting brands that prioritise sustainability can drive positive change in the industry. Look for certifications such as Fairtrade, Soil Association Organic, and Rainforest Alliance when shopping for food and household products. These labels indicate that the products meet high environmental and ethical standards.

6. Save Energy at Home

Energy conservation is another crucial aspect of sustainable living. Simple changes, like switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs, using a programmable thermostat, and insulating your home, can significantly reduce your energy consumption. Additionally, consider investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, if feasible.

7. Embrace Slow Fashion

The fast fashion industry is notorious for its environmental impact. Embrace slow fashion by choosing high-quality, timeless pieces that last longer. Support brands that use sustainable materials and ethical labour practices. Additionally, consider shopping second-hand or organising clothing swaps with friends and family.

8. Use Water Wisely

Water is a precious resource that should be conserved. Install water-saving fixtures like low-flow showerheads and dual-flush toilets. Collect rainwater for gardening and fix any leaks promptly. Be mindful of your water usage, for instance, by taking shorter showers and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth.

9. Grow Your Own Food

If you have the space, growing your own vegetables, herbs, and fruits can be immensely rewarding. Not only does it reduce your carbon footprint, but it also provides fresh, organic produce. Start with easy-to-grow plants like tomatoes, lettuce, and herbs. Even if you have limited space, container gardening or a small allotment can yield impressive results.

10. Educate and Involve Your Family

Sustainable living is most effective when everyone in the household is on board. Educate your family about the importance of sustainability and involve them in making eco-friendly choices. Encourage children to participate in gardening, recycling, and other green activities. Making sustainability a shared goal can strengthen family bonds and create lasting habits.

Conclusion

Adopting sustainable eating and living practices is not only beneficial for the environment but also for your health and wellbeing. By making mindful choices and incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can play a part in creating a more sustainable future for generations to come. Every small step counts, and collectively, our efforts can lead to significant positive change.

Supporting World Oceans Day with Sustainable Food Choices

World Oceans Day, celebrated on 8th June, is a crucial reminder of the importance of our oceans and the urgent need to protect them. 

One powerful way we can contribute to ocean conservation is by making better choices about the food we eat. 

Here’s how you can support the health of our oceans with sustainable and mindful eating habits.

1. Choose Sustainable Seafood

Opting for sustainably sourced seafood is one of the most direct ways to support ocean health. Look for labels such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), which certify seafood that meets high environmental standards. Sustainable seafood choices include:

Wild-caught Alaskan salmon: Known for its robust population and managed fishing practices.

Farmed shellfish: Mussels, oysters, and clams are excellent choices as they have minimal environmental impact and can even help filter and clean ocean water.

Pacific sardines: These small fish are typically abundant and reproduce quickly, making them a sustainable choice.

2. Reduce Seafood Consumption

While choosing sustainable seafood is beneficial, reducing overall seafood consumption can significantly lessen the demand on ocean resources. Consider incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet. Legumes, tofu, and tempeh are excellent sources of protein that have a much lower environmental footprint compared to seafood and other animal products.

3. Support Local and Seasonal Produce

Buying local and seasonal produce not only supports local farmers but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances. Seasonal vegetables and fruits often require fewer resources to grow, making them a more sustainable choice. In the UK, seasonal choices for June include:

Asparagus: Fresh, versatile, and perfect for salads or grilling.

Strawberries: A delicious and refreshing fruit for desserts or snacking.

Peas: Great for soups, salads, and sides.

4. Reduce Food Waste

Food waste is a significant issue that indirectly affects our oceans. Decomposing food waste in landfills produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change and ocean acidification. To minimise food waste:

Plan your meals and shopping lists carefully.

Use leftovers creatively in new dishes.

Compost food scraps to return nutrients to the soil.

5. Avoid Over-Packaged Products

Plastic pollution is a major threat to marine life. Reducing your reliance on single-use plastics can have a positive impact on the health of our oceans. Choose products with minimal packaging, bring reusable bags and containers when shopping, and support brands that use sustainable packaging.

6. Educate and Advocate

Education is a powerful tool for change. Learn more about sustainable fishing practices and the impact of your food choices on the environment. Share this knowledge with friends and family to spread awareness. Advocacy can also play a critical role – support policies and initiatives that promote sustainable fishing and ocean conservation.

Conclusion

Supporting World Oceans Day is about more than just acknowledging the beauty and importance of our oceans; it’s about taking concrete steps to protect them. By making mindful food choices, we can all contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for our oceans. Let’s celebrate World Oceans Day by committing to sustainable eating and encouraging others to do the same. Together, we can make a significant impact.

Additional Resources

Marine Stewardship Council https://www.msc.org/uk Information on certified sustainable seafood.

Aquaculture Stewardship Council https://asc-aqua.org Guidelines and certifications for sustainable aquaculture.

Seasonal Food Guide https://www.lovebritishfood.co.uk/whats-in-season-when Find out what’s in season in the UK.

Happy World Oceans Day! 🌊

Making Wiser Food Choices for a Healthier Planet on World Environment Day

Today, as we celebrate World Environment Day, it's a perfect and vital opportunity to reflect on how our daily choices impact the planet. 

One area where we can make a significant difference is through our eating habits. 

The food we consume not only affects our health but also has profound implications for the environment. By making wiser decisions about what we eat, we can contribute to a more sustainable and healthier world.

Understanding the Environmental Impact of Our Food

The environmental impact of our food choices is substantial. Agriculture is a major driver of deforestation, water use, and greenhouse gas emissions. Here are some key points to consider:

Deforestation: Large swathes of forests are cleared to make way for agricultural land, particularly for livestock and palm oil plantations. This deforestation contributes to habitat loss and climate change.

Water Use: Agriculture accounts for about 70% of global freshwater withdrawals. Producing meat, especially beef, requires significantly more water than growing crops like vegetables, grains, and legumes.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The production of meat and dairy products is a significant source of methane and nitrous oxide, potent greenhouse gases. Transporting food long distances also adds to carbon emissions.

Steps to Make Environmentally Friendly Food Choices

Eat More Plants: Incorporating more plant-based foods into your diet is one of the most effective ways to reduce your environmental footprint. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and grains require fewer resources to produce than meat and dairy products.

Reduce Food Waste: Approximately one-third of all food produced globally is wasted. By planning meals, storing food properly, and using leftovers creatively, we can reduce waste and the resources needed to produce the food we consume.

Choose More Seasonal and Local Produce: Eating seasonal and locally grown food reduces the need for energy-intensive greenhouse production and long-distance transportation. It also supports local farmers and economies.

Support Sustainable Farming Practices: Look for labels that indicate sustainable practices, such as organic, Fair Trade, and Rainforest Alliance. These certifications often ensure that the food is produced in ways that are environmentally friendly and socially responsible.

Reduce Meat and Dairy Consumption: Even a small reduction in meat and dairy consumption can have a significant impact. Consider adopting practices like Meatless Mondays or incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet.

Be Mindful of Packaging: Choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging. Bring your own bags to the store, and consider buying in bulk to reduce plastic waste.

Making a Difference on World Environment Day

World Environment Day is a reminder that our choices matter. By making informed decisions about what we eat, we can contribute to a healthier planet. Here are a few practical steps to get started:

Start Small: You don't have to overhaul your diet overnight. Begin by making small changes, such as swapping out one meat-based meal a week for a plant-based alternative.

Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the environmental impact of different foods and share this knowledge with friends and family.

Get Involved: Support initiatives and organisations that promote sustainable agriculture and food systems. Participate in local events and campaigns that aim to protect the environment.

As we observe World Environment Day, let's take a moment to appreciate the profound connection between our food choices and the health of our planet. By making wiser decisions, we can nourish ourselves and help ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. Every bite we take can be a step towards a more sustainable world.

Embracing Sustainable Seafood: A Guide to Conscious Cooking and Eating

This is NOT who you think it is!

In an era where environmental awareness is paramount, making informed choices about the seafood we consume is crucial. 

Sustainable seafood practices ensure that fish populations remain healthy and ecosystems are protected. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you cook and eat sustainably sourced seafood.

Understanding Sustainable Seafood

Sustainable seafood is sourced in ways that consider the long-term vitality of marine species and the well-being of the oceans. This involves:

Responsible Fishing Practices: Methods that avoid overfishing and bycatch, ensuring minimal impact on marine environments.

Aquaculture Practices: Sustainable farming methods that do not harm surrounding ecosystems and maintain water quality.

Why Sustainable Seafood Matters

Environmental Preservation: Prevents overfishing and protects marine habitats.

Biodiversity Conservation: Ensures diverse marine species thrive.

Health Benefits: Sustainably farmed or caught seafood often contains fewer pollutants.

How to Choose Sustainable Seafood

Look for Certifications:

Marine Stewardship Council (MSC): Blue label indicating certified sustainable seafood.

Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC): Certification for responsibly farmed seafood.

Soil Association Organic Standard: For organic and sustainable aquaculture.

Consult Guides and Apps:

Good Fish Guide: Provided by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS), it offers sustainability ratings for various species.

Seafood Watch: An app that provides recommendations on sustainable seafood options.

Know Your Fish:

Avoid Overfished Species: Familiarise yourself with species at risk, such as Atlantic cod and bluefin tuna.

Opt for Abundant Species: Choose species with healthier populations like mackerel, haddock, and farmed mussels.

Tips for Cooking Sustainable Seafood

Seasonal and Local: Purchase seafood that is in season and locally sourced to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation.

Whole Fish: Buying whole fish can be more sustainable and economical. Use every part to reduce waste.

Simple Recipes: Sustainable seafood often has a rich, natural flavour. Simple cooking methods such as grilling, steaming, or baking enhance its taste without the need for excessive seasoning or sauces.

Recipes to Try

Grilled Mackerel with Lemon and Herbs:

Fresh mackerel, seasoned with lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs. Grill until skin is crispy.

Steamed Mussels in White Wine:

Fresh mussels steamed with garlic, shallots, and white wine. Serve with crusty bread for a delicious, sustainable meal.

Baked Haddock with a Herb Crust:

Haddock fillets topped with a mixture of breadcrumbs, parsley, and a hint of garlic. Bake until golden and flaky.

Supporting Sustainable Practices

Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your fishmonger about the origin and sustainability of their seafood.

Stay Informed: Keep updated on sustainable seafood practices and emerging certifications.

Advocate: Support policies and businesses that promote sustainable fishing and aquaculture.

Eating and cooking sustainable seafood is a rewarding way to contribute to the health of our oceans and ensure that future generations can enjoy the bounty of the seas. By making mindful choices and advocating for sustainable practices, we can all play a part in preserving marine ecosystems. So, next time you plan a seafood meal, choose wisely, cook with care, and savour the taste of sustainability.

https://sustainableseafoodcoalition.org/

Want to take your cookery to the next level and beyond? The School of Artisan Food Announces a Four-Week Summer School

The School of Artisan Food,which is a not-for-profit school dedicated to inspiring and helping people from all walks of life to learn about healthy, sustainable and delicious food, is justifably proud to be celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2024, having opened its doors back in 2009. 

To mark the anniversary, the School, set in the middle of 15,000 acres of rolling parkland on the beautiful Welbeck Estate at the edge of Nottinghamshire's Sherwood Forest, has announced a special summer programme for 2024 featuring over 40 short courses during July and August. 

The highlight of this year's line-up is a four-week Artisan Summer School, the only artisan summer school of its kind, offering students the opportunity to become immersed in the world of artisan bread baking, viennoiserie, patisserie, pizza making, BBQ and ice cream making, too.

The School of Artisan Food offers a wide range of hands-on courses which are taught all year-round by world-class tutors, from bread to charcuterie, cheesemaking to patisserie and more, with courses ranging from a half day short course to a full BSc (Hons) degree. 

Since the school was opened 15 years ago, it has seen over 15,000 students from all walks of life pass through its doors, with many students going on to form artisan businesses of their own both in the UK and further afield.

Artisan Summer School

Running from 29 Jul -23 Aug 2024, the Artisan Summer School is suitable for home bakers and anyone with a love of artisan food. 

No previous experience is required as students will be guided by the school's world-class tutors Kevan Roberts, Sally-Ann Hunt and Martha Brown to establish strong foundations and progress to advanced skills.

Summer School students will be taught in a small group in the School of Artisan Food's specialist training rooms, gaining much hands-on experience to develop their knowledge, techniques and confidence day-by-day. Highlights will include:

Learning the basics of baking bread, making tinned loaves, bread rolls, brioche, pizza and sourdough;

Graduating to more advanced techniques, including creating gluten-free and buckwheat dough;

Making traditional English pies with hand-raised hot water pie crusts;

Studying artisan patisserie, producing raspberry and meadowsweet financiers, milk chocolate and sesame choux buns, and venison and wild garlic petivier;

In the School's special dedicated teaching dairy, students will make ice cream, butter and yoghurt;

Learning Viennoiserie, producing a range of sweet and savoury laminated pastries, including pain au chocolat, zaatar, gruyere croissants and Danish pastries;

Out of the kitchen, students will also enjoy a visit to a local flour mill to see first-hand how flour is produced; a foraging walk; a picnic by the boating lake; and a behind the scenes tour of the artisan producers based on the Welbeck Estate, including Welbeck Bakehouse, Welbeck Abbey Brewery, DropWorks Rum Distillery, and Stichelton Dairy.

For students who wish to enjoy a truly immersive experience, accommodation is also available on the Welbeck Estate, just yards from the school itself.

Price: £3,995, or £4,995 with accommodation.

Short Courses

In addition to the Summer School, further highlights in the 40-strong short course programme running at The School of Artisan Food this summer will include:

Introduction to Sourdough Baking with Emmanuel Hadjiandreou

Smoking and Curing with Sally-Ann Hunt

Introduction to Fermenting and Pickling with Lindy Wildsmith

Woodfire Pizza with David Finn

Pig in a Day with Andrew Sharp

The school is also delighted to reveal the launch of three new patisserie courses with tutor Martha Brown. By popular demand, these courses, ranging from 1-3 days will cover Pastry Fundamentals (1 day), Vegan Pastry and Viennoiserie (2 days) and Creative Patisserie (3 days).

Prices start at £95 for a half-day course.

For more information, please visit www.schoolofartisanfood.org or call 01909 532 171

To view the School of Artisan Food's full summer programme, visit www.schoolofartisanfood.org/courses 

For more on the Artisan Summer School, visit https://www.schoolofartisanfood.org/courses/artisan-summer-school

Shrove Tuesday: Wild Alaska Pollock And Prawn Pancakes

This Shrove Tuesday, add a twist to your normal pancake recipe by making these scrumptious savoury Pollock pancakes. Simply add flakes of wild Alaska pollock, prawns and dill, parsley or thyme to a creamy cheese sauce.

Spoon into homemade pancakes and sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs before serving. Sustainable and delicious, you can’t get batter than that!

Sustainable Alaska pollock is a great eco-conscious seafood choice and available frozen all year round. Alaska’s long-term dedication to sustainability began over 50 years ago in the State constitution and has ensured continuous, wild and healthy harvests, and guaranteed that stocks of superior seafood are preserved for future generations.

Alaska’s most abundant seafood species, genuine Alaska pollock is a lean, mild and tender member of the cod family. Swimming freely in the icy waters of the North Pacific Ocean, they feed on natural marine life. Wild Alaska pollock is low in fat and a natural source of protein, vitamins, calcium and Omega-3 oils, and can be eaten as part of a balanced diet.

Alaska pollock is easy to prepare and the most versatile of all whitefish varieties, and great value for money too! You can also find ready-prepared wild Alaska pollock fish fingers in the ranges of your favourite fish finger brands.

That's Food and Drink would like to thank the following for helping to prepare this article:

The Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute

Photography and Reportage: Steve Lee

Recipe and Food Styling: Sue Ashworth

Pan-Fried Wild Alaska Pollock With Crunchy Lemon And Parsley Breadcrumbs, Chorizo And Buttered Baby Leeks

Start the New Year in a sustainable way with our new recipes from Alaska Seafood! This tasty wild Alaska pollock dish with spicy Spanish chorizo and sweet, buttered baby leeks is both delicious and wonderfully simple to make. First, fry pollock fillets and leeks in butter and chorizo in hot oil, then serve with lemon and parsely breadcrumbs and a drizzle of chorizo oil. Delicious, natural and sustainable!

Sustainable Alaska pollock is a great eco-conscious seafood choice and available frozen all year round. Alaska’s long-term dedication to sustainability began over 50 years ago in the State constitution and has ensured continuous, wild and healthy harvests, and guaranteed that stocks of superior seafood are preserved for future generations.

Alaska’s most abundant seafood species, genuine Alaska pollock is a lean, mild and tender member of the cod family. Swimming freely in the icy waters of the North Pacific Ocean, they feed on natural marine life. Wild Alaska pollock is low in fat and a natural source of protein, vitamins, calcium and Omega-3 oils, and can be eaten as part of a balanced diet.

Alaska pollock is easy to prepare and the most versatile of all whitefish varieties, and great value for money too! You can also find ready-prepared wild Alaska pollock fish fingers in the ranges of your favourite fish finger brands.

That's Food and Drink would like to thank the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute and: Steve Lee for the information and the photograph and Jocelyn Barker for the following  recipe:-

Pan-fried wild Alaska pollock with crunchy lemon and parsley breadcrumbs, chorizo and buttered baby leeks

Serves 4

25g butter

4 x 150-200g Alaska pollock fillets, seasoned with salt and pepper

8 baby leeks, trimmed

1 tbsp olive oil

100g chorizo, sliced

1 lemon

Salt and black pepper

Breadcrumbs:

4 tbsp olive oil

1 clove garlic, crushed

60g dry white breadcrumbs

Finely grated zest of 2 lemons

1 tbsp chopped parsley

· To make the breadcrumbs, heat the olive oil in a frying pan and add the garlic. Cook until the garlic just starts to colour and then add in the breadcrumbs and lemon zest. Remove from the heat

· Melt the butter and add the pollock fillets. Cook for 2 minutes a side. Add the leeks half way through

· At the same time, fry the chorizo slices in 1 tbsp hot oil for 1-2 minutes, reserve the oil

· Reheat the breadcrumbs if they have cooled and then stir in the chopped parsley

· Serve the pollock fillets with a spoonful of breadcrumbs, baby leeks, chorizo, a drizzle of chorizo oil and a squeeze of lemon juice