Scared by the Fact one in Six Children Leave Primary School with Rotten Teeth? Not With Peppersmith's!

Whilst the stats are very scary, one in six children leave primary school with rotten teeth, the ingredients in Peppersmith are not scary.

This Halloween, swap the traditional sugar rush for something refreshingly good for your fangs with Peppersmith’s naturally tasty Mints, Gum and Pastilles.

Peppersmith products are sugar free, gluten free, vegan friendly, and nut free, and they contain the plant-based sweetener xylitol, one of the least scary sweeteners there is.

A natural alternative to sugar, xylitol actively fights against tooth decay by stopping bacteria from sticking to your teeth, lowering plaque build-up and reducing the risk of cavities and bad breath.

All Peppersmith products are sweetened with the stuff - making them a huge hit with parents and dentists, plus they have the Oral Health Foundation’s seal of approval.

And the other ingredients? Proper British mint from a little farm in Hampshire, zingy Sicilian lemons, delicious strawberries and explosive eucalyptus, set this wickedly moreish range apart from other brands. 

Choose from Lemon Mints, Strawberry Pastilles, Peppermint and Extra Strong Mints, or Peppermint and Spearmint Gum -  100% natural flavours giving 100% banging taste, whilst freshening your breath and caring for your dental health at the same time. Multi-tasking magic.

If you’re not sure which flavour to feast on this Halloween, there’s a totally tantalising mixed taster box bursting with all of the flavours. It’s the perfect way to taste what all the fuss is Peppersmith Mints, Gum and Pastilles cost from £1.35 (15g gum, Ocado) and are available from health shops and supermarkets nationwide, including Holland & Barrett, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s Locals and all WHSmith’s Travel Outlets.

The all-new Mighty Pouches of gum and mints cost from £4 (50g Ocado), and the mixed taster boxes cost £17.99 and are available from Peppersmith direct, via www.peppersmith.co.uk.

So this Halloween, skip the scary sugar and treat yourself to something sweet, smart and smile-approved.

Sweet Spreads Aren't Just For The Kids, Says Bonne Maman

Bonne Maman says that our love of sweet spreads is spreading nationwide, so says a new survey.  

Over 9 in every 10 adults in the UK eat sweet snacks or spreads on a weekly, and sometimes, daily basis,  with 4 out of 10 of us 'enjoying the taste', 1 in 3 'fancied something sweet' and 1 in 5 saying 'it's a reward'.

The brand's latest introductions, new Salted Butter Caramel Spread and Sweet & Crunchy Peanut Spread also hits the sweet spot; far from being just favourite flavours for children, over 70% choose chocolate, peanut or caramel spreads as adult treats. 

Some 50% of adults prefer chocolate, 1 in 4 choose the caramel spreads and 1 in 5 the nut-based flavours - peanut just edging hazelnut for popularity.… and not necessarily for sharing either! 

Over half those surveyed admitted they'd bought the sweet spread as a treat for just themselves. Whether to be eaten solo or with family and friends an eager 1 in 7 spoon straight from the jar (and if you do you're twice as likely to be female than male, 18% compared to 9%, just sayin'...). 

Around a quarter of uis Brits prefer sweet spreads on brioche or toast, a quarter prefer pancakes, waffles or crumpets and a further quarter would use a biscuit, muffin or slice of cake to 'carry' their chosen sweet spread.           

New Salted Butter Caramel Spread

An indulgent new choice for a 'just for me' moment is Salted Butter Caramel Spread - rich, buttery and creamy caramel made with salted butter, cream and absolutely no palm oil. Now available from Tesco stores at £2.90 rrp per 275g jar – with further national distribution available over the coming month.

Cooking Up a Treat for Be an Angel Day

Every year on 22nd August, people around the world take part in Be an Angel Day – a wonderful opportunity to show kindness, lend a hand, or simply brighten someone else’s day. 

While many choose to volunteer, donate, or spend time supporting loved ones, one of the simplest and most heartfelt ways to celebrate is by cooking up a treat. 

After all, food has always been a powerful way of saying, “I care about you.”

Why Food is the Perfect Angelic Gesture

Sharing food has a timeless quality. Whether it’s baking a cake for a neighbour, preparing a packed lunch for a colleague, or inviting a friend round for tea, homemade treats embody generosity. 

On Be an Angel Day, you don’t need grand gestures – a simple plate of biscuits or a homemade loaf of bread can be enough to make someone feel cherished.

Easy Angelic Treat Ideas

Here are some ideas to inspire you to spread kindness through the kitchen:

Heavenly Cupcakes – Bake a batch of light, fluffy cupcakes topped with cloud-like swirls of vanilla frosting. Decorate with edible glitter or small angel wing toppers for a thoughtful touch.

Angel Food Cake – A classic, airy cake made with whipped egg whites. It’s light, elegant, and perfect served with fresh berries.

Kindness Biscuits – Make a simple shortbread or ginger biscuit recipe, then package them in small bags tied with ribbon. Add a handwritten note saying, “Thinking of you.”

Homemade Jam or Chutney – Preserve seasonal fruits or vegetables and gift jars to friends, family, or neighbours.

Comforting Meals – If baking isn’t your thing, cooking up a warming soup or casserole to share is just as meaningful.

Spreading Angelic Acts

Once your treats are ready, think about who might need a lift. Perhaps a neighbour who lives alone, a friend going through a tough time, or even your local community group. Sharing food doesn’t just nourish the body – it nurtures the spirit.

Be an Angel Day is about making the world a little brighter. By cooking up something delicious, you’re not only creating a treat but also an act of kindness that can ripple far beyond the plate. This 22nd August, put on your apron, preheat the oven, and spread a little angelic cheer – one treat at a time.

The Best Non-Ice Cream Frozen Treat? Try Frozen Peeled Ripe Bananas!

When the temperature rises and you’re in need of a refreshing treat, ice cream might be the first thing that comes to mind. 

But what if you’re looking for something healthier, dairy-free, or naturally sweet with no added sugar? 

Enter the humble frozen ripe banana, the ultimate non-ice cream frozen treat you never knew you needed!

Why Frozen Bananas Are a Game-Changer

Bananas are naturally sweet, creamy when blended, and packed with nutrients like potassium, fibre, and vitamin B6. Freezing them takes their texture and versatility to a whole new level. And best of all? They're incredibly easy to prepare.

Here’s why frozen bananas are so brilliant:

1. Naturally Sweet and Creamy

Once ripe bananas are peeled and frozen, they develop a smooth, ice cream-like texture when eaten slightly thawed or blended. No need for added sugar or dairy, the sweetness and creaminess are built right in.

2. Perfect for Smoothies

Toss a frozen banana into your blender and you instantly get a thick, creamy smoothie base. Pair with berries, spinach, nut butter or cocoa powder for a nutritious breakfast or midday pick-me-up.

3. An Instant Snack

No prep needed. Just grab a frozen banana from the freezer, let it sit for a couple of minutes to soften slightly, and enjoy as a quick and satisfying frozen snack. For extra indulgence, dip them in dark chocolate and refreeze.

4. A Brilliant Ice Cream Alternative

When blended on its own or with a splash of oat or almond milk, frozen banana becomes a silky, scoopable treat known as “nice cream.” Add cocoa powder, cinnamon, peanut butter, or vanilla for a variety of flavours. It’s a guilt-free dessert that feels like a cheat.

5. Eco-Friendly and Budget-Smart

Got overripe bananas sitting in the fruit bowl? Don’t bin them! Peel them and freeze them instead. It’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste while stocking your freezer with something useful and delicious.

How to Freeze Bananas Like a Pro

Choose ripe bananas – the riper, the sweeter.

Peel them – never freeze with the skin on.

Slice into chunks or freeze whole, depending on how you’ll use them.

Lay out on a baking tray to freeze individually for a few hours before transferring to a container or freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together.

Fun Ways to Enjoy Frozen Bananas

Chocolate-dipped banana pops: Dip in melted chocolate, sprinkle with crushed nuts or coconut, and refreeze.

Tropical smoothie: Blend with pineapple, mango, and coconut milk.

Banana bites: Sandwich peanut butter between banana slices and freeze.

Healthy milkshake: Blend with cocoa powder, oat milk, and a touch of vanilla.

Frozen peeled ripe bananas are not just a handy ingredient, they’re a full-on frozen treat in their own right. Whether you're after a simple snack, a smoothie booster, or a healthy dessert alternative, frozen bananas tick all the boxes. Affordable, healthy, and versatile, they’re quite possibly the best non-ice cream frozen treat out there.

Why not keep a stash in your freezer and give them a try? 

Summerdown Launches Premium Hospitality Offering to Elevate Guest Experiences With Award Winning British Peppermint Treats

Summerdown, the famous and award-winning British producer of luxury peppermint treats, is proud to unveil its new hospitality offering, designed to help hospitality venues elevate their guest experience, increase customer satisfaction and enhance their brand value, all with a refreshing local twist.

From dining destination pubs and independent restaurants to B&Bs, boutique hotels and rural cafés, Summerdown's peppermint treats, including their chocolates, restorative herbal teas and body, bath and home fragrance collections, offer a distinctive and indulgent end to a meal, spa treatment or an overnight stay.

A taste of Hampshire – naturally distinctive

At the heart of Summerdown's range is their single-estate Black Mitcham peppermint, grown and distilled on the family farm deep in the Hampshire countryside. This rare heritage variety, brought back to British soil over a quarter century ago, delivers a uniquely aromatic flavour and scent.

Tailored for Hospitality

Summerdown understands the day-to-day challenges of hospitality businesses. That's why their offering is designed to be flexible, scalable and tailored - whether you're running a busy wedding venue, a boutique B&B or a high-end restaurant. 

From after-dinner chocolates to bathroom washes and lotions or guestroom treats, the Summerdown range can be customised to fit your brand and operation with different formats, sizes and refill options available.

“We've seen how something as simple as a peppermint chocolate can become a memorable moment for guests,” said Jo Colman, who has the absolutely splendid title of Chief Mint Officer at Summerdown, to That's Food and Drink. “We're here to support venues looking for thoughtful, locally sourced touches that reflect quality, care and provenance.”

Chef Director at Lime Wood, Luke Holder, told us: "At Lime Wood, only the very best makes it to the table. Summerdown's peppermint thins are the perfect finish to elevate our dining experience, they are refreshing, elegant and unmistakably British. What makes them even more special is the story behind them. They pair beautifully with our after-dinner coffee and leave a good lasting impression."

Premium, sustainable, and dependable

With B Corp certification, regenerative farming practices accredited by the RSPB and a low-impact, closed-loop approach, Summerdown's sustainability ethos aligns with the values of today's environmentally conscious hospitality sector. 

Add to this a dedicated, responsive team and a track record of excellence and Summerdown stands as a trusted partner for businesses who want to offer their guests something extraordinary and authentically British.

To find out how Summerdown can enhance your guest offering, to request samples or to explore partnership opportunities, visit www.summerdown.com/pages/hospitality or contact sales@summerdown.com

The Sweet Debate: Shop-Bought Cakes and Desserts vs. Homemade Delights

When it comes to satisfying our sweet tooth, the choice between shop-bought cakes and desserts and homemade treats can be a tough one. 

Each option has its own set of pros and cons, making the decision a matter of personal preference, convenience, and occasion. 

Let's get into the sweet debate and weigh the pros and cons of shop-bought versus homemade desserts.

Shop-Bought Cakes and Desserts

Pros:

Convenience:

Shop-bought desserts are the epitome of convenience. With our increasingly busy lifestyles, the ability to simply pick up a ready-made cake or dessert from a supermarket or bakery saves time and effort. There’s no need for planning, measuring, mixing, or baking – it’s all done for you.

Consistency:

Commercially produced cakes and desserts often come with the assurance of consistency in taste and quality. You know what you’re getting each time you buy it, which is particularly beneficial for special occasions where reliability is key.

Variety:

Supermarkets and bakeries offer an extensive range of cakes and desserts, from classic Victoria sponges and chocolate eclairs to exotic cheesecakes and gluten-free options. This variety can cater to diverse tastes and dietary requirements without the need for specialised baking skills.

Presentation:

Shop-bought cakes and desserts are usually professionally decorated and packaged, making them look appealing and suitable for gifting or parties where presentation matters.

Cons:

Ingredients and Additives:

Many commercial desserts contain preservatives, artificial flavours, and other additives to extend shelf life and enhance taste. These can detract from the natural flavours and may not be as healthy as homemade alternatives.

Cost:

While convenient, shop-bought desserts can be more expensive than making them at home, especially if you opt for high-quality or gourmet products.

Lack of Personal Touch:

Shop-bought cakes lack the personal touch and love that goes into homemade baking. They can feel impersonal, particularly for intimate gatherings or special celebrations.

Environmental Impact:

The packaging of shop-bought desserts often involves plastic and other non-recyclable materials, contributing to environmental waste.

Homemade Cakes and Desserts

Pros:

Control Over Ingredients:

When you bake at home, you have complete control over the ingredients. This allows you to use fresh, high-quality, and organic ingredients, and to avoid preservatives and artificial additives. It’s also easier to cater to dietary restrictions and preferences.

Cost-Effective:

Baking at home can be more economical, especially when making large quantities. Basic ingredients like flour, sugar, and eggs are relatively inexpensive, and you can often make more for less money compared to buying from a store.

Personal Touch:

Homemade desserts carry a personal touch that can make any occasion feel special. The effort and love put into baking can be felt and appreciated by those who enjoy the treats.

Creative Expression:

Baking at home allows for creativity and experimentation. You can customise recipes, try new techniques, and create unique desserts that reflect your personal style and taste.

Cons:

Time-Consuming:

Baking from scratch requires time and effort. From gathering ingredients and following recipes to decorating and cleaning up, homemade baking can be a lengthy process that not everyone has time for.

Skill Level:

Not everyone has the same level of baking skills, and homemade desserts can sometimes turn out less than perfect. This can be frustrating, especially when baking for special occasions.

Limited Variety:

While you can try different recipes at home, the variety might still be limited compared to what’s available commercially, particularly for more complex or exotic desserts.

Inconsistent Results:

Homemade baking can sometimes result in inconsistent outcomes, especially if you’re experimenting with new recipes or techniques. This unpredictability can be a downside when you need reliable results.

Both shop-bought and homemade cakes and desserts have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Shop-bought options offer convenience, consistency, and variety, making them ideal for busy schedules and guaranteed results. On the other hand, homemade desserts provide control over ingredients, cost savings, and a personal touch that can make any occasion extra special.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities and circumstances. For a quick fix or a professionally polished presentation, shop-bought desserts are the way to go. But for those who enjoy baking and want to add a personal touch to their sweet treats, nothing beats the satisfaction of homemade delights. Whether you prefer the convenience of shop-bought or the charm of homemade, there's always room for a little sweetness in life.

Wholesome Home Cooking for Your Feathered Friend: Nutritious Recipes for Your Pet Parrot

Parrots are not just colourful companions; they're intelligent, social creatures that deserve the best care, including a well-rounded diet. 

While even the best commercial bird foods are convenient, they may lack the variety and freshness that homemade meals offer. 

Cooking for your pet parrot can be a rewarding experience, ensuring they receive the nutrients they need while enjoying tasty treats.

Let's explore some wholesome and delicious recipes tailored to your feathered friend's dietary requirements.

Fresh Fruit Salad:

Parrots adore fresh fruits, and a colourful fruit salad can make a delightful addition to their diet. Combine diced apples, oranges, grapes, and berries in a bowl. You can also add slices of banana or kiwi for extra flavor. Avoid giving avocados, as they can be toxic to birds. Serve the fruit salad in small portions, ensuring it's fresh and free from any seeds or pits.

Nutty Quinoa Bowl:

Quinoa is a nutritious grain that's packed with protein, making it an excellent choice for your parrot's diet. Cook quinoa according to the package instructions and let it cool. Mix in chopped almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds for added crunch and flavor. You can also add finely diced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers for extra nutrients. Serve the quinoa bowl as a wholesome meal that your parrot will love.

Baked Sweet Potato Fries:

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy snack for your pet parrot. Cut sweet potatoes into thin strips and toss them with a little olive oil. Spread the fries on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven until they're crispy. Let them cool before serving to your parrot. Sweet potato fries are a tasty treat that provides both flavor and nutrition.

Veggie Omelette:

Eggs are a great source of protein for parrots, and they can be incorporated into various dishes. Whip up a veggie omelette using eggs, spinach, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Cook the omelette until it's set, then let it cool before cutting it into small pieces. Serve the veggie omelette as a nutritious meal or snack for your feathered friend.

Homemade Birdie Bread:

Birdie bread is a popular treat among parrot owners, and it's easy to make at home. Mix together whole wheat flour, cornmeal, eggs, and water to form a thick batter. Add in diced vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn for added flavor and nutrition. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake it until it's cooked through. Let the birdie bread cool before cutting it into small squares. This wholesome treat is sure to be a hit with your pet parrot.

Cooking tasty and wholesome foods for your pet parrot is a wonderful way to ensure they receive the nutrition they need while enjoying delicious meals. By incorporating fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein sources into their diet, you can provide your feathered friend with a balanced and flavorful menu. Experiment with different recipes to discover your parrot's favorite dishes, and enjoy the bond that forms through sharing meals together. Your parrot will thank you with chirps of delight!

There are many online resources for you to check if certain foodstuffs are harmful for your parrot. Just use Google to learn what they are. Or check with an avian vet.

Home frozen bananas make an excellent treat

Home frozen bananas make a nutritious, tasty and cooling treat for those hot summer days. And I offer my thanks to my wife, Anni, for coming up with this idea.

Peel your bananas, place then in a suitable freezer proof container, perhaps employing freezer boxes or freezer bags and then place them in your freezer.

Leave them in your freezer for a suitable period of time (at least several hours) and then taken them out and enjoy them as a very tasty, frozen treat.

Yes, we admit to being inspired by the folks over at Pukpip who produce very tasty chocolate dipped banana lollies. You can read about them, here https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2023/07/pukpip-on-path-to-rapid-growth.html.

However, my wife does have a chocolate allergy so her idea of non-dipped frozen bananas is very helpful to herself and anyone else who has a chocolate allergy. 

Frozen bananas will make an excellent sweet but low sugar snack for any time of the year and I feel they'll make a great treat for Christmas, perhaps especially if served with typical Christmas sweet spices such as ginger, all spice, cinnamon, etc. That is if you can stop people from eating them as soon as they are frozen!) 

(Image courtesy of Guilherme Machado from Pixabay)

Plan ahead for Halloween with Trewithen Dairy

Serve your ghouls and goblins trick or treat scones this Halloween with a Trewithen Dairy twist on the classic cream tea. These trick or treat scones are the perfect mix of spooky and surprisingly scrumptious - if you are a fan of yeast extract!

Ingredients

For 6 scones

350g Self-raising flour, sieved

Pinch of salt

100g Trewithen Dairy unsalted butter

110ml Trewithen Dairy whole milk

Black food paste

Trick topping - quantity per scone

1 tbsp Yeast extract

1 tbsp Cornish clotted cream

Drizzle of honey

Sprinkle of chilli flakes

Treat topping - quantity per scone

1 tbsp Blackberry jam

1 tbsp Cornish clotted cream

1 Blackberry

Method

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

Using your fingertips only, rub the butter into the flour to create fine breadcrumbs. Mix the black food paste in with the milk and stir until fully combined. Now, stream the black milk in slowly to the breadcrumbs, using a knife to gently mix until it just forms a dough. Wrap in cling film and chill for 20 minutes.

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 (you don't need to egg or milk wash these scones) and bake for 12 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.

For the trick scones - break the scone in half and spread a layer of yeast extract over the surface. Top with a big spoonful of Cornish clotted cream, before drizzling with honey and sprinkling with some chilli flakes.

For the treat scones - simply split the scone in two and dollop blackberry jam over one side. Pull a generous scoop of Cornish clotted cream and place on top of the jam. Finish with a blackberry.

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