The Great Strawberry Taste Test: Why Cheaper Can Sometimes Be Better

We've all heard the saying, "You get what you pay for." Most of the time, there's some truth in it. 

Spend a little more and you often expect better quality, better flavour and a better overall experience.

But every now and then, reality has other ideas.

This week I bought two punnets of strawberries from two very different supermarkets. 

One came from a well-known premium supermarket with a reputation for quality. The other came from one of the UK's popular cheap but cheerful discount supermarkets.

If I'd been asked to guess which would be the better buy before tasting them, I would have confidently chosen the expensive ones.

And I would have been completely wrong.

The premium strawberries looked attractive enough, but biting into them was a real disappointment. They were firm to the point of being hard, lacked the juicy sweetness that makes strawberries such a summer favourite, and had an unexpectedly and jarring bitter flavour. They weren't unpleasant enough to throw away, but they certainly weren't all that enjoyable.

Then came the discount supermarket strawberries, which I bought the next day on a whim. (The purpose of the trip was to buy some unsalted rice cakes for our parrot.)

Costing around half the price, these strawberries couldn't have been more different. They were beautifully ripe, wonderfully soft without being mushy, packed with juice and bursting with natural sweetness. Every strawberry tasted like summer should taste.

It was a reminder price isn't always the best indicator of quality.

There are plenty of reasons why this can happen. Strawberries are highly seasonal and incredibly delicate. They don't continue to sweeten after being picked, so timing is everything. Fruit harvested slightly too early may survive transport and last longer on the shelf, but it may never develop the rich sweetness that customers expect.

Meanwhile, another retailer may receive fruit picked closer to peak ripeness, even if it has a slightly shorter shelf life. The result? Better flavour at a lower price.

Storage also plays an important part. Strawberries kept too cold can lose some of their aroma, while poor handling during transport can affect texture and taste.

The lesson for shoppers is simple: don't judge strawberries solely by their price or the name above the supermarket door.

Instead, look carefully at the fruit itself. Bright, fresh green leaves are a good sign. The berries should be evenly coloured with no white shoulders, and there should be little or no juice collecting in the bottom of the punnet, which can indicate damaged or overripe fruit. Most importantly, buy them when you plan to enjoy them within a day or two for the very best flavour.

Sometimes you'll find exceptional strawberries in a premium food hall. Sometimes you'll discover a bargain that tastes even better in a discount store.

This week's shopping trips reminded me that good food isn't always about spending more. Sometimes it's simply about finding the retailer that has sourced the very best produce that week.

So next time someone tells you, "You get what you pay for," just smile... and offer them one of your delicious bargain strawberries. If you have any left, that is!

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.

How to Celebrate National Ice Cream Day in Sweet, Creative Style

Every year, National Ice Cream Day gives us the perfect excuse to indulge in the nation’s favourite frozen treat. 

Falling on the third Sunday of July (21st July in 2025), this delightful day is all about creamy scoops, nostalgic cones, and icy innovation. 

Whether you’re a classic vanilla lover or a fan of bold, experimental flavours, there’s a way for everyone to join in the celebrations.

Here’s how to make National Ice Cream Day absolutely delicious:

1. Host an Ice Cream Social

Invite friends, family, or neighbours over for an afternoon of ice cream fun. Set up a DIY sundae bar with a variety of ice cream flavours and toppings like:

Fresh fruit

Crushed biscuits

Nuts and sprinkles

Warm sauces (chocolate, caramel, strawberry)

Whipped cream and wafers

Add games like ice cream trivia or a blind taste test to keep things fun and interactive.

2. Try a New or Local Brand

Support small, local or independent ice cream makers. Look out for regional favourites at your local farm shop or food market. You could even discover plant-based gelatos, goat milk ice cream, or experimental flavours like rose and pistachio or elderflower and honey.

3. Make Your Own Ice Cream

Homemade ice cream is easier than you might think – even without an ice cream maker. Try a simple no-churn recipe using just double cream, condensed milk, and your favourite mix-ins like:

Berries and jam

Crushed chocolate bars

Biscuits and peanut butter

Get creative and invent your own signature flavour!

4. Share a Scoop on Social Media

Celebrate the day with a picture of your favourite cone or sundae on Instagram, TikTok or Threads. Use hashtags like #NationalIceCreamDay, #IceCreamLovers, or even make a fun reel rating your top flavours.

5. Support an Ice Cream-Related Cause

Did you know some charities and community groups use ice cream socials for fundraising? Consider holding one to raise money for a local cause or donate to organisations supporting food banks, summer lunch programmes, or children’s charities.

6. Explore Ice Cream History

Take a moment to appreciate the cultural significance and history of ice cream. From its early roots in ancient Persia and China to Italian gelato and the birth of the ice cream van in the UK, it’s more than just a dessert – it’s a global tradition.

7. Celebrate with Ice Cream-Inspired Treats

Not in the mood for a scoop? Try ice cream-flavoured drinks like milkshakes or iced coffee floats. Or go for themed desserts like ice cream cupcakes, sandwiches, or even an ice cream cake.

Final Sprinkle

Whether you're scooping up a classic 99 Flake or crafting an over-the-top sundae, National Ice Cream Day is your golden ticket to a sweet summer celebration. So go ahead, indulge, experiment, share, and enjoy every cold, creamy bite.

The Science of Taste: Exploring Flavour Profiles and Palate Preferences

Taste is a fascinating sensory experience that goes far beyond mere consumption; it's an intricate interplay of our senses, our biology, and our cultural background. 

From the moment food touches our tongues, a symphony of chemical reactions and neural signals begins, shaping our perception of flavour. 

In this exploration, we delve into the intricate science of taste, examining flavour profiles and understanding why our palate preferences vary so widely.

The Four Primary Tastes

Traditionally, taste was classified into four primary categories: sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. However, recent research suggests that there may be a fifth taste known as umami, a savoury taste found in foods like Parmesan cheese, mushrooms, and soy sauce. Each of these tastes is detected by specific taste receptors on our tongue, which send signals to our brain, allowing us to discern different flavours.

Flavour Perception

Contrary to popular belief, flavour isn't solely determined by taste buds. Our sense of smell plays a crucial role, influencing up to 80% of what we perceive as flavour. When we chew food, aromatic compounds are released and travel through the back of our mouth to the olfactory receptors in our nose, contributing to the overall flavour experience. This is why a congested nose can significantly dull our sense of taste.

The Role of Texture

Texture also significantly impacts our perception of flavour. The way food feels in our mouths – whether it's crunchy, creamy, or chewy – can enhance or detract from our enjoyment of a dish. For example, the crispiness of fried chicken skin or the velvety smoothness of chocolate ganache can elevate the flavour experience, making it more satisfying.

Individual Differences in Palate Preferences

Why do some people love spicy food while others can't tolerate even a hint of heat? Our palate preferences are shaped by a combination of genetic factors, cultural influences, and personal experiences. For instance, individuals with a specific gene variant may be more sensitive to bitterness, leading them to avoid certain foods like dark leafy greens or grapefruit. Similarly, exposure to different cuisines during childhood can influence our taste preferences later in life.

Cultural Influences on Flavour

Cultural factors also play a significant role in shaping our flavour preferences. What may be considered a delicacy in one culture could be perceived as repulsive in another. For example, while Western cultures often enjoy desserts that are sweet and indulgent, Eastern cuisines may favour desserts that incorporate ingredients like red bean paste or matcha, which may seem less sweet by comparison.

The Future of Flavour

As our understanding of taste continues to evolve, so too does our ability to manipulate and enhance flavour. Food scientists and chefs alike are constantly experimenting with novel ingredients and techniques to create new taste experiences. From molecular gastronomy to plant-based alternatives, the future of flavour promises to be both exciting and diverse.

In conclusion, the science of taste is a multifaceted field that encompasses a wide range of sensory experiences, from the basic tastes of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter to the complex interplay of aroma, texture, and cultural influences. By understanding the factors that shape our flavour preferences, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse culinary landscape and perhaps even expand our own palate horizons. So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a meal, take a moment to savour the intricate symphony of flavours dancing on your tongue.

Proper Snacks Extends Night-in Range With Indulgent Sweet and Sweet Cinnamon Popcorn Flavours

Whether you are enjoying a duvet day or a classic case of JOMO (joy of missing out), sometimes all you crave is a proper night in. 

So, grab your slippers and tie yourself up in your duvet. Netflix on. Popcorn at the ready. Tonight, we're in-in with PROPER Snack's all-new popcorn flavours.

PROPER Snacks brings excitement to its hand-popped butterfly popcorn to new heights with two new flavours, Sweet Cinnamon and Sweet, keeping you seriously satisfied with indulgent, yet healthier alternatives to your favourite sofa snacks.

Sweet Cinnamon uses the perfect blend of warm cinnamon flavours with a welcome hit of smooth caramel. This season's ultimate night-in 'snackcessory' boasts 37% less sugar than leading brands whilst being biscuity, spice and all things nicity.

What's more, PROPER Snacks is bringing that cinema-style taste to your sofa with its new Sweet popcorn. Made with its best recipe to date, the upgraded flavour is sprinkled with the perfect amount of Demerara sugar to give you a sweet and crunchy hit. To top it off, Sweet contains 24% less sugar than other leading brands and complies with the government's HFSS legislation, too!

As with all PROPERCORN, they are guaranteed to be vegan, gluten-free, high in fibre and made using all-natural flavourings and with absolutely no palm oil. Both are also under 126kcal per serve.

In line with the brand's history of championing creatives to curate its famous on-pack designs, the new flavours bring a pop of colour to your snack cupboard, thanks to vibrant packaging created by independent artists, Kelly Anna and Eva Lefmann.

Founder, Cassandra Stavrou explains “Sweet has always been our hallmark. The fact we've been able to develop this indulgent flavour with our best-ever recipe, whilst also making it healthier too, is something we're very proud of. Sweet Cinnamon is so delicious. It only lasts a few seconds in our office and we can't wait for it to hit the shelves.”

The new PROPERCORN flavours will launch in ASDA and Ocado from March, with launches in Waitrose, Sainsbury's and Tesco later in 2023. Sharing packs, RRP £1.80 / 100g.

You are what you eat. So eat PROPER.

https://proper.co.uk.