Robert's Dorset: Proper Tasty Snacks that are Handmade in Britain

Introducing Robert's Dorset, previously Proper SCT, a family-owned and operated Dorset-based snack and handmade fudge company.

Robert's Dorset is the one stop shop for high-quality, tasty, savoury snacks and hand-made fudge, perfect for retailers, food halls, butchers, farm shops, garden centres and beyond. Key product ranges consist of Proper Pork Crackling, Delectable Nuts which includes Yummy Peanuts, Delicious Cashews and Mixed Nuts and Fabulous Fudge.

The demand for snack products is on the rise. Mondelēz has recently published its third annual 'State of Snacking' report, in which it surveyed more than 3,000 consumers from marketplaces around the globe. Results found that 85% of respondents eat at least one snack for sustenance and one for indulgence every day.

Of course, Robert's Dorset uses only high-quality ingredients enabling it to offer better-made snacks using its trusted and oh so tasty family recipes. Pork Crackling and Nuts are available in a wide range of flavour SKUS. 

From classics like as Sea Salt and Sage & Onion to more exotic varieties such as Chorizo and Extreme Naga Chilli. Fudge varieties are also a mixture of classic and more adventurous flavours, from Vanilla and Butterscotch to Biscoff and Baileys.

Robert's Dorset products come in a range of different pack sizes and packaging options to suit all retailers. Choices include small and large re-usable pots and jars, as well as recyclable bags and pouches, offering environmentally friendly solutions for traders across Europe.

Robert Parkin, the founder of Robert's Dorset said: “We're a passionate team here at Robert's Dorset and we're experts at creating tasty snacks in a wide range of moreish flavours. 

"We're a proud family-run brand and have come far when we think back to when we were creating our hand-made snacks from our modest kitchen back in 2011. As a brand, we are led by quality and flavour and want to make sure there's something for everyone.

“Our NPD is very much led by our customer feedback - we pride ourselves on our wide range of flavour varieties. We're for everybody, whether you like classic tastes or are a bit more daring, have allergies or are vegan, Robert's Dorset is for all”.

Robert's Dorset began the rebrand from SCT in August 2021 and moves forward with a laser focus on only producing the highest-quality and best tasting products which are all handmade in the West Country.

The Robert's Dorset products are suitable for a wide range of dietary needs, such as gluten free, sugar-free, vegan, 100% keto friendly and allergen free. All with the same great taste.

All Robert's Dorset products are made to order on site in Dorset, providing customers with only the freshest produce and bespoke selections.

Robert's Dorset Proper Pork Crackling is triple cooked with incredible crunch and available in 11 flavours. No MSG or Artificial flavours.

Flavours: BBQ, Bombay Mix, Chinese 5 Spice, Chorizo, Classic Sea Salt, Extreme Naga Chilli, Garlic, Sage & Onion, Sea Salt & Pepper, Sea Salt & Vinegar and Sweet Chilli. Sizing availability: 50g Bag, 55g Pot, 100g Bag, 100g Pot, 1.5L Glass Jar, 3L Glass Jar and various refill sizes. Hanging Strips also available. RRP: from £2.00

Robert's Dorset Yummy Peanuts are AA grade nuts which have been ethically and sustainably sourced. Using Robert's Dorset seasoning, the Yummy Peanuts are available in 13 flavours.

Flavours: BBQ, Bombay Mix, Chinese 5 Spice, Chorizo, Classic Sea Salt, Extreme Naga Chilli, Garlic, Sage & Onion, Sea Salt & Pepper, Sea Salt & Vinegar, Sweet Chilli, Honey Roasted and Dry Roasted. Sizing availability: Available in 100g Pouch, 200g Pot, 400g Pot, 1.5L Glass Jar, 5L Glass Jar and various refill sizes. Hanging Strips also available. RRP: From £1.80.

Robert's Dorset Delicious Cashews are AA grade nuts which have been ethically and sustainably sourced. Using Robert's Dorset seasoning, the Delicious Cashews are available in 12 flavours.

Flavours: BBQ, Bombay Mix, Chinese 5 Spice, Chorizo, Classic Sea Salt, Extreme Naga Chilli, Garlic, Sage & Onion, Sea Salt & Pepper, Sea Salt & Vinegar, Sweet Chilli and Honey Roasted. Sizing availability: Available in 100g Pouch, 200g Pot and 400g Pot. Hanging Strips also available. RRP: From £2.95.

Robert's Dorset Fabulous Fudge from the heart of the west country is 100% British and available in 15 flavours. Cream based and Gluten-free. Two vegan varieties also available.

Flavours: Baileys & White Chocolate, Biscoff Biscuit, Chocolate Orange, Creamy, Millionaire, Mint Chocolate, Rocky Road, Rum & Raisin, Vanilla, Sea Salt & Caramel (vegan), Vanilla (vegan), Belgian Chocolate, Banana & Chocolate, Butterscotch, Sea Salt & Caramel. Sizing availability: 180g Pouch and 360g Block. RRP: From £4.50.

For trade orders or for an online catalogue with visuals & prices, please email trade@sct-sct.com or give one of the team a call 01202875280.

https://robertsdorset.com

The Access Group Continues Investment in People Technology Solutions Within the Hospitality and Leisure Sector With Acquisition of Rotaready

The Access Group has now acquired the award-winning staff rota software Rotaready, as the latest addition to its business software solutions. 

Building on its strategy of bringing new and innovative products to market, Rotaready will be incorporated into its hospitality division and will enhance its existing people software solutions. This investment in best-in-class technology reflects Access Hospitality's role as one of the leading providers of software solutions for the hospitality and leisure sector.

Rotaready is an easy-to-use and highly adoptable workforce management solution for growing hospitality businesses. Developed for hospitality, leisure and retail, Rotaready helps operators schedule rotas, optimise wage spending, record attendance and approve timesheets for payroll.

Henry Seddon, who is the MD of Access Hospitality, said: “The acquisition of Rotaready demonstrates our commitment to invest in technology that enables our hospitality customers to deliver great guest experiences, operate with maximum efficiency and profitability, and develop engaged and compliant team members​.

With operators facing an increased need to focus on attracting, recruiting and retaining employees, adding Rotaready to the Access Group's portfolio creates an unrivalled people software offering that gives customers the freedom to do more.

Rotaready's intelligent scheduling platform removes the hassle of planning employee rotas and gives operators more time to run their businesses. Demand forecasting means it's easy to optimise schedules and labour spending, so staffing levels are aligned with demand. The employee communication features engage team members with real-time updates and empower them with a greater level of shift flexibility.”

Henry Seddon went on to say: “I'm confident there's a great cultural fit between our two companies, as well as experienced talent within the Rotaready team which will be a great addition to the Access Hospitality family.”

Carl Holloway and Jamie Harvey, co-founders of Rotaready will join Access Hospitality to help integrate with existing hospitality software products through Access Workspace and steer further product development.

Carl Holloway said: “We're thrilled to be joining The Access Group. They share our passion for building highly innovative software supported by world-class customer success, so Rotaready couldn't be a better fit in the Access Hospitality family.

“We launched Rotaready back in 2015 with a mission to revolutionise the way hospitality, retail and leisure businesses manage their teams and drive commercial performance, drawing on our experience from working in those very industries. 

"Seven years later, that mission remains unchanged and we're delighted to be joining a business which shares our goals and ambitions.

“Access Hospitality has an unrivalled reputation for providing innovative technology solutions for the hospitality and leisure sector. Existing Rotaready customers will benefit from the company's extensive experience in accelerating product development, investing in customer success and providing software that gives customers the freedom to focus on efficient operations and great guest experiences.”

For further information please contact Access Hospitality at hospitality@theaccessgroup.com or 0845 345 3300.

I am Döner - first ever cheese fest with biggest kebab to date

This week, to coincide with Leeds and Reading Festival, the UK kebab store I am Döner has shared their exciting and wonderful plans for “Cheese Fest,” a month long festival of cheese specials and cheesed up kebabs.

According to initial images released by I am Döner they are taking on the bands with the 5 cheeses of summer headlining. This will be their biggest ever 5 cheese kebab to date.  Their house special with 5 cheeses!

A mix of döner, chicken, falafel, macaroni cheese poppers, cream cheese stuffed Jalapeño poppers, halloumi, cheddar and feta. Served with tomato, red onion, grated carrot, fresh coriander, pickled red cabbage, crispy fried vegetables, chilli sauce, and garlic mayonnaise all wrapped up in a freshly made flat bread.

Paul Baron,  Döner’s Owner, said: "With our dishes hitting the stage such a Mactallica and Red Hot Jalapeno Peppers. All six specials will be available for collection and on all three delivery partners Deliveroo, Uber Eats & Just Eat."

Paul went on to say: “We’re absolutely obsessed with kebabs and I have a huge passion for music, too. So I wanted to bring the two together with some different specials for people to try and what better time to do it than when we have the famous Leeds Festival in town”

Guests who want to be amongst the first to try the specials and be in with the chance of winning some epic prizes should head to the I am Döner website.

I am Döner cheese festival will run in all three stores from 27th August – 30th September 2022.

I am Döner was launched back in 2016 by Chef Paul Baron and is now backed by Think Hospitality. 

Paul started a revolution from their small takeaway shop in Headingley, Leeds, in 2016 inspired by a trip he took to Berlin. 

He want to make the Döner kebab more than a guilty pleasure for the intoxicated! They now have three stores in the UK – Headingley, Harrogate & Leeds City Centre.

Paul added: "Traditionally you think a kebab as a bit of doner meat on pitta bread with some iceberg lettuce, but we are no stereotypical kebab shop! We use a total of 120 ingredients in the six kebabs we make. 

"We have ten items of salad, feta cheese, homemade bread, homemade sauces and the highest quality meats. Because of this we attract a good bunch of sober people and have a very strong lunchtime offering as well as the evening trade."

Please check them out at https://www.iamdoner.co.uk.

Mangrove gets you ready for the Christmas Spirit!

What springs to mind when you think of Christmas? Good times with friends, family, delicious feasts and plenty of merriment?

To aid the merriment – a well selected tipple or two always helps to get the festivities off to a good start.

Spirits that are somewhat uncommon or unique make for excellent Christmas gifts and UK Spirits Distributor of the Year, Mangrove UK, has a stunning range that's destined to satisfy even the most particular and discerning palette.

We all have a modern man to buy for; someone who's unlikely to jump for joy when unwrapping your present! For the discerning recipient, we say gift them a sizeable dose of Christmas spirit! Black Cow Vodka Christmas Spirit has all the ingredients of Christmas pudding, macerated in velvety smooth Black Cow vodka.

The recipe for Christmas Spirit was created at the Black Cow kitchen table using an assortment of winter fruits and spices. This can be drunk topped with champagne for a sparkling Christmas champagne cocktail, garnished with a twist of orange zest.  Or for something to warm his heart serve Christmas Spirit with warmed, cloudy apple juice.

Ocado £25 (37.5% ABV)

Indulgence and luxury are good qualities to look for in a gift, particularly when it's for someone as special as your Mum.

Esprit de Figues, the world's first true fig liqueur is a sweet liqueur, crafted and bottled in the 150 year old family distillery in Burgundy. Rich handpicked Violette de Bordeaux Figs are carefully infused for three months, to release their delicious taste and essence.

The artisan distillers are using the finest techniques to create this exquisite liqueur which captures the true essence of fresh fig, raspberry jam with a subtle hint of peach and honey. An elegant addition to cocktails or just drink it on its own for an indulgent after dinner drink.

Master of Malt £24.94 (18% ABV)

Quite often the shot of choice on a night out with friends or colleagues is tequila (and an excellent choice of Aperitivo on Christmas Day). So why not give the gift of a good time with Tequila-based liqueur - VIVIR Café VS?

Made with award-winning VIVIR Tequila Blanco and flavoured with Mexican coffee beans, this exquisite liqueur has a little sweetness from the Piloncillo, a natural Mexican cane sugar, as well as an authentic rich coffee flavour with a subtle Agave finish.

Delicious savoured by itself and superb in classic coffee cocktails, including the Espresso Martini. It's a winner for anyone who loves a little cocktail.

Master of Malt £32. (40% ABV).

Sometimes there's nothing sweeter than a little nostalgia at Christmas, especially for those of a certain age.

The English Whisky Company from Norfolk have created Norfolk Nog, a wonderful whisky cream. Made with English Single Malt Whisky and lots of cream, the resulting Nog is both light and delicate. Best served on ice, but equally at home poured over ice cream, this is a drink to be shared with the family.

The English Whisky Company £22.50 (ABV 19%).

Christmas is a time to be thankful. And there's no better way to thank someone than by giving a carefully selected and well-suited spirit to sip over the festive period. Sloeberry & Blackcurrant from Portobello Road Distillery fits the bill.

Made by distilling a botanically intense version of their London Dry Gin which is then blended with sloe berries foraged from the wilds of Burgundy, a French blackcurrant liqueur, an Italian cherry liqueur, and a little sugar. Everything is rested in ex-whiskey barrels at their home on London's iconic Portobello Road. The result is intensely and re-assuringly “ginny” but also possessing a multifaceted stone fruit character, a welcome syrupy sweetness, and a subtle wood influence from the barrel. Delicious over ice, in your favourite cocktail, or if you're like us, straight from your hip flask.

Ocado £27 (ABV 28%)

So, skip the socks, say "no!" to the gift card, and pick the perfect Christmas spirit. After all, there's no better time than the festive period, to eat, drink, and be merry!

Mangrove UK can be found at www.mangroveuk.com

Mangrove UK was established by John Coe and Nick Gillett back in 2014 and now employs over 30 specialist spirits professionals, mixologists, sales and brand experts with extensive experience in both the On and Off trade UK spirits market.

Elephant Gin Launch Independent Fundraising Platform

Elephant Gin (www.elephant-gin.com) launched in 2013 when Founders Tessa and Robin Gerlach created a range of premium, handcrafted gins after their adventures in Africa. 

Keen to give back to the continent that inspires them, 15% of bottle profits are donated to the endangered African elephant. 

Summer 2022 sees two major new milestones for the independent, London and Berlin based brand: the announcement of one million Euros raised for African elephant conservation to date, and the launch of the Elephant Gin Foundation (www.elephantginfoundation.org), an independent platform for a sustainable, longstanding commitment to wildlife protection in Africa.

Based in London, the Elephant Gin Foundation is a non-profit foundation dedicated to protecting African wildlife, with a particular focus on elephants and the preservation of their habitats. 

The new charity will allow Tessa and Robin to generate further attention to the plight of African wildlife and additional funds for these important projects. 

Elephant Gin's customers and supporters will now have the chance to donate to wildlife protection projects directly, and they'll also be able to choose which projects they will support. Elephant Gin will continue to donate 15% of bottle profits, which will now flow directly into the Elephant Gin Foundation, who will manage distribution of funds.

Every year over 35,000 elephants are shamelessly killed because of uncontrolled ivory poaching; that is one every 15 minutes. 

This is why Elephant Gin donates 15% of their bottle profits to elephant conservation projects. Tessa Gerlach said: “If we want future generations to continue to experience African nature and its wild animals, then we as a society urgently need to take responsibility. 

"The Foundation allows us to manage, and become active in, charitable projects independently of Elephant Gin. We can report more transparently and bind partners and customers more closely to the projects we select. As Elephant Gin grows internationally as a gin brand, our commitment to the protection of African elephants grows too; the foundation umbrella allows us to keep a clear focus on both goals. The 15% that Elephant Gin has invested per bottle since the company started has not changed, and as the Founders of the foundation, Robin and I continue to stand behind all decisions.”

The foundation's efforts will be focused on the following three threat factors:

Poaching - commercial trade in ivory

Over the past 50 years, elephant populations have declined drastically due to poachers hunting elephants for their ivory. Even today, with ivory banned from sale in much of the world, there are regular discoveries of elephants that were killed for their ivory.

Loss of natural habitat

Africa is experiencing tremendous population growth; large parts of elephant habitat have been taken over for farmland and new infrastructure. The land which has been lost is fragmented, meaning elephant populations have been separated, with no easy path to roam. As a result, the genetic exchange decreases and it is more difficult for individual animals to migrate from densely populated regions to more sparse areas

Human-wildlife conflicts due to increasing population, further narrowing elephant habitats

Due to the fragmented land elephants are left to graze, they are forced to travel long distances in search of food; it is becoming more difficult to create safe corridors from one food island to another. The cultivation of crops, especially corn, attracts elephants, who repeatedly plunder the farmers' fields. A whole year's harvest can be lost in one night.

With the funds generated through bottle sales and fundraising events, Elephant Gin has been able to help ensure that no elephants were poached in the sanctuaries of their partner organisation, Big Life Foundation, in the last three years. More specifically, the funds have contributed to:

Funding 55 Big Life Foundation rangers who patrol the bush, day in and day out, to protect elephants from poachers

Ongoing support for the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, known as the most successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation programme in the world

Continued sponsorship of 25 orphaned elephants by the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Establishment of “The Wildlife Spirit” – an education centre focused on teaching local youth and adults about wildlife conservation and giving visitors the opportunity to learn about elephants and their importance to the ecosystem; as well as the Nairobi-based Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Securing corridor projects

Support for research projects (Elephants without Borders)

Quality, tradition, a love of experimentation and an awareness of responsible, fair, and meaningful business practices are standards that Elephant Gin has strictly adhered to since the company was founded. Tessa and Robin were adamant that their fundraising would have a meaningful and tangible impact, visiting and maintaining constant dialogue with the foundations they support.

Tessa remarked on the €1million milestone, “What we have been able to achieve for wildlife conservation in Kenya is not only thanks to our dedicated local partners, but also to our wonderful supporters. We are very proud of the outstanding achievements to date. But, if we don't continue to do everything we can to support local organisations in their vital work, African elephants will be extinct by 2040. So, while we celebrate our fundraising success and all those who remain loyal to us on this path, we remain motivated and are steering full steam ahead towards the next million.”

What is it about Elephant Gin? Better Gins!

Elephant Gin Founders, Tessa and Robin Gerlach, were inspired to create their range of premium handcrafted gins following their adventures in Africa. In 2013 they developed their award-winning Elephant London Dry Gin (45%) that uses rare African botanicals and focuses on resolutely artisan production methods. The portfolio was complemented by the aromatic Elephant Sloe Gin (35%), the full-bodied Elephant Strength Gin (57%) and the fresh Elephant Orange Cocoa Gin (40%).

Inspired by the African sundowner experience, Elephant Gin combines rare African botanicals with fresh apples and pure spring water to create handcrafted premium gins. This composition gives the gin a complex and strikingly mild bouquet with floral, fruity and spicy aromas.

Each of Elephant Gin's unique bottles is individually crafted with handwritten labels, excerpts of African maps and an embossed crest of the Maasai.

Elephant Gin is fresh from winning Taste Master at The Spirits Business' Gin Masters Awards 2021, having been awarded the world's best gin by a panel of independent judges who described the gin as simply “stunning”.

Safer Elephants.

Elephant Gin gives back to the continent that has inspired the brand in the first place: 15% of the bottle profits are donated to the endangered African elephant. So far, over €1,000,000 has been raised through sales and fundraising events. From May 2022, donations will go directly to the Elephant Gin Foundation, a grant-making foundation that invests in African elephant conservation and educational projects.

The themes of sustainability and social responsibility are reflected in all facets of the company, from waste reduction and innovative recycling initiatives to training and providing jobs in local communities in South Africa and Kenya.

Better Gin. Safer Elephants.

Key Stockists (Range varies between outlets)

Ocado, Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason, The Whiskey Exchange, and the Elephant Gin Online Shop at www.elephant-gin.com

Bar Stockists include

Oriole, The Gibson, The Coral Room, Davies & Brooks, Dukes, The Dorchester, Mr Fogg's, Amazonico, 5 Hertford Street, Hotel Café Royal, Quo Vadis, 45 Jermyn Street, Eve Bar.

 

Libertine Burgers will help you celebrate National Burger Day

National Burger Day is held in the UK on August 25th each year – but how much do you really know about burgers?

Libertine Burger – winner of the UK's best burger award, has launched a special edition burger to mark the occasion, besides reminding the nation of some of the lesser-known facts about theis popular fast food.

The special #195 burger - a Libertine's 150g signature beef patty with house smoked pulled pork, pickled red onion, Monterey Jack cheese, American cheese and dirty mayo – costs £12.50.

It's available in the award-winning burger brand's Midlands restaurants in Leamington Spa and Rugby and is the perfect way to celebrate National Burger Day in style.

The special creation will then make its an appearance at national food festival The Big Feastival, which takes place in the Cotswolds across the August Bank Holiday weekend (August 26th to 28th), where Libertine will take up residence in 'The Smokery' field.

Those who aren't local to the Midlands don't have to miss out - anyone can enjoy Libertine's popular range of beef and vegan burgers and sides in the comfort of their own home thanks to their DIY kits, which are delivered nationwide to your door, plus step-by-step instructions.

And if you were wondering why burgers are so popular that they have their own special day, Libertine is reminding people of some of the things you might not know about burgers, with five facts about the beefy delicacy.

When was the first burger eaten?

The Oxford English Dictionary lists the first mention of a hamburger in 1889, but it's thought to have been appearing on menus long before this. In Germany, a meat patty between bread called Rundstuck Warm was popular at least two decades prior to this mention.

So, why do we call it a hamburger when it's actually made from beef?

It's generally agreed that the origins of the burger as we know it today can be traced back to the German city of Hamburg, hence the use of the word 'ham' as a precursor. Ground meat, which was a type of salt beef, was shaped into a patty and cooked, although there was still no bun at this stage. But did you know a real Hamburg steak can also be served raw and probably came first? It is thought the Germans got the idea after sailors travelling to Russia were inspired by their steak tartare.

How did burgers become so popular?

As Hamburg was a popular port for German immigrants to travel to the US, they took their burger recipe with them. Burgers started to appear on menus in America in the 19th century. Similarly Germans also emigrated to the UK, and by the time of the First World War hamburgers were being sold as 'Liberty Sandwiches' to avoid the German name.

When was the first cheeseburger made?

Everyone knows burgers taste better with cheese, but it seems no one actually had the idea of adding it until 1924. Many food historians credit 16-year-old Lionel Sternberger with slapping a slice of American cheese onto a cooking hamburger at his father's sandwich shop 'The Rite Spot' in Pasadena, California. And so the cheeseburger was born!

How many burgers are eaten in the UK each year?

UK meat eaters consume a whopping 2.5 billion beef burgers a year, a recent survey revealed. This equates to 52 burgers per person over a 12 month period. But for those wanting to cut down on their meat consumption to help the planet, the University of Oxford said swapping at least one meat-based meal a week for a plant-based alternative could collectively save the equivalent C02 emissions of driving 27 billion miles in a car. 

Charles Harres, founder of Libertine Burger, said: “Burgers are pretty much a staple of the British diet these days, but not many people know some of the fun facts behind them, so we thought it would be fun to share them as the nation marks National Burger Day.

“If you choose any day to tuck into a burger, it should be on National Burger Day, so we've pulled out all the stops to create something that celebrates the humble burger and gives a nod to some of its history, with a nod to its popularity in America as well as the signature ingredients that we use from our local, trusted producers like Aubrey Allen.

“And for those who can't make it to us to have us cook our new signature burger, they can still enjoy our great kits wherever they are in the country to join in the burger fun.”

You can find more information on Libertine Burger and all their meal kits here: https://libertine-burger.myshopify.com. 

 

Chika's Launches New Limited Edition Sweet Almonds for the Festive Season

Bring some natural joy to the Christmas Party this year with CHIKA'S new Crunchy Sweet Almonds.

CHIKA'S, the brand behind natural, plant based and gluten free snacks, is launching a tasty new limited edition duo of tasty and delectable Sweet Almonds in time for Christmas, which are bursting with flavour and packed full of goodness.

Available in two deliciously festive flavours, Irish Cream and Sweet Cinnamon, the new Sweet Almonds are not only gently baked to achieve that perfect crunch, but are also vegan, gluten free, and a great natural source of plant protein and fibre.

 Chika Russell, Founder and CEO of CHIKA'S says: “With the festive season nearing us, many people are looking for tasty treats to enjoy at home, or to share with friends and family members. But a little bit of indulgence needn't make us feel guilty!

 “Our New Crunchy Sweet Almonds offer snackers that something special this Christmas, incredible flavours, a moreish crunch, and a sprinkling of sweetness, but they are also vegan, gluten free, and packed with natural protein and fibre.

"At CHIKA'S, making good snacks goes further than ingredients and flavour, it's also about a deep rooted commitment to supporting communities, giving back through every snack we sell."

 Russell adds: “As a woman built business, at CHIKA'S we are passionate about supporting women and giving them opportunities to succeed.

“Today, 31 million girls around the world are out of school. And every 7 seconds a girl is married. As a business, we want to change that situation.

“Through our 'Empowering Girls' programme with World Vision, we're supporting 30,000 girls with education by 2025. And this year, we launched CHIKA'S in Africa with the aim of creating 300 jobs and a 70% female workforce. It's about raising aspirations and creating a culture where female success is celebrated.”

NEW! CHIKA'S Sweet Almonds (Irish Cream and Sweet Cinnamon) will be available to buy from www.chikas.co.uk, Amazon, and Ocado from Christmas 2022. RRP £3 for a 100g sharing bag.

Way back in 2015, Chika Russell, the inspiring female founder and CEO of CHIKA'S Snacks, appeared on BBC's Dragons Den and gave what Deborah Meaden described as 'one of the best pitches ever.'  Fast forward seven years and today the brand's range of tasty, wholesome, plant based snacks that embody the energy and vibrancy of Africa are available to buy in Waitrose, Co-op, and Ocado, with more growth to come.

 CHIKA'S is rooted in a passion for sharing IYANU goodness – creating amazing snacks that are bursting with flavour and packed with natural goodness.

 The business is committed to giving back to communities, and in 2019 CHIKA'S launched 'Snacks4Change – Empowering Girls' with World Vision, an initiative that aims to support 30,000 girls through education by 2025.

www.chikas.co.uk.

Highest Scoring Great Taste Products in the Running for Supreme Accolade

Who will be crowned this year's Supreme Champion or take home a regional Golden Fork trophy?

The results are out for Great Taste 2022 - the world's most trusted food and drink awards which is organised by the Guild of Fine Food - with 5,556 artisanal food and drink producers across the nation scooping 1-, 2- and 3-stars for their products and that all-important judges' feedback.

This year's line-up saw food and drink products submitted from a staggering 110 different countries from across the world. 4,078 were awarded a Great Taste 1-star – 'food & drink that delivers fantastic flavour', 1,237 were awarded a Great Taste 2-star – 'above and beyond delicious', and 241 were awarded a Great Taste 3-star – 'extraordinarily tasty food & drink.

Now the highest-scoring 3-star products are in the running for the title of Supreme Champion of 2022. Not only that, but the producers of the top-scoring products from each region also wait patiently to find out if they will be taking home a Great Taste Golden Fork award – a trophy which celebrates the best in region – in a few weeks' time.

Christabel Cairns, operations & marketing director at the Guild of Fine Food comments: “It's really interesting to see some of the overall trends that we saw during the main judging process reappearing in the Golden Forks nominees list.  Well-made and innovative ingredients, plus excellent examples of more traditional products – a real reflection of the quality that food lovers and independent retailers look for across all the categories.”

The Golden Forks nominees for 2022 are:

The following products are all up for nomination for a Golden Fork trophy and the very best are in with a chance of scooping the top honour of the Great Taste Supreme Champion 2022.

Blackcurrant Ice Cream from Alder Tree (alder-tree.co.uk)

Pecan & Molasses Chocolates from ArtChocolat (art-chocolat.com)

The Single Rose, Ballylisk of Armagh Farmhouse Brie from Ballylisk Dairies (ballyliskofarmagh.com)

Wild Sika Venison Loin from Baronscourt Estate (barons-court.com)

Baklava Cake from Ca.ake by Aisha Amjad (caake.co.uk)

Corndale Chorizo Picante from Corndale Charcuterie (corndalefarm.com)

Curious Cat Mad Hatter Gin from Curious Cat Distillery Ltd. (curiouscatdrinks.co.uk)

West of Ireland Lamb Rack from Dawn Meats Group (dawnmeats.com)

Jalapeno & Lime Fermented Hot Sauce from Eaten Alive (eatenalive.co.uk)

Gulf from Farm Yard Brew Co. (farmyardbrew.co.uk)

Espresso Martini Ice Cream from Fecci's Ice Cream t/a Mario's Luxury Dairy Ice Cream (mariosicecream.com)

Nduja & Honey Mezzaluna from GCL Food Ingredients (gclfoodingredients.com)

Hadley's Blackberry Ice Cream from Hadley's Dairy (hadleysdairy.co.uk)

Heather Hills Farm Scottish Heather Comb Honey from Heather Hills Farm (heatherhills.co.uk)

Wild Highland Venison Salami with Juniper, Smoked with Peat from Highland Charcuterie and Smoke House Ltd (highlandcharcute.com)

Jemima's Tahini Granola from Jemima's Deli (jemimasdeli.com)

Fermented Fresh Green Kampot Peppercorns from Kadode Kampot Pepper UK c/o TLP (kadodepepper.co.uk)

Knoops Cacao Tea from Knoops (knoops.co.uk)

KóRYS Organic Chestnut Honey from KóRYS (koryshoney.gr)

Kalamata Olives in Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Mani Blaeuel UK Ltd (mani-blaeuel.co.uk)

ManiLife Deep Roast Smooth Peanut Butter from ManiLife (mani-life.com)

Black Lime Chutney from Mr Vikki's (mrvikkis.co.uk)

Supervalu Sour Cream from Musgrave Retail Partners Ireland (musgrave.ie)

Indonesian Sumatran Fairtrade Organic from Bay Coffee Roasters (baycoffeeroasters.com)

Orkney Akvavit from Orkney Spirits Limited t/a Orkney Gin Company (orkneygincompany.com)

Natural Yogurt from Scúp Gelato / Natural Ice Cream Wholesale (scupgelato.com)

Kozlar iz maslinove komine from Sirana Gligora (gligora.com)

Noya Sauce - Soya Sauce Alternative from Seaweed from Sozye (sozye.com)

St. James Scotch Reserve Pure Royal Filet from St. James Smokehouse (stjamessmokehouse.com)

Espresso Caramel Bon Bon from T & M Artisan Chocolates (tmchocolates.co.uk)

Curried Goat Patti from Tasty Bites @ Ionas Kitchen

Blaisdon Red Plum Jam from The Artisan Kitchen (theartisankitchen.co.uk)

Blood Orange Marmalade Vino De Naranja from The Artisan Kitchen (theartisankitchen.co.uk)

Beef & Bone Marrow Burger from The Gog (thegog.com)

Lypiatt from The Old Cheese Room Ltd (nestonpark.co.uk)

Sweet Plum Vinegar from Vinegar Tips (vinegartipsonline.co.uk)

All 36 of these nominees are in the running for a Golden Fork, but who will take home the highest accolade of them all – a winner described by judges as “so delicious”, “incredible” and “addictive”.

All will be revealed on Monday 5 September during the Great Taste Golden Forks awards ceremony held at Southwark Cathedral, which sits on the south bank of the River Thames, next to Borough Market.

Sponsored by Bord Bia, Fine Food Digest, Fine Food Show North, Food and Drink Wales, Invest NI, Partridges London, Scotland Food & Drink, Shire Foods East Anglia and Speciality & Fine Food Fair, ten regional Golden Forks will be handed out, as well as awards for products that have done particularly well for their size of business or style of produce.

Who got the Great Taste 3-stars?

The highest rating is a Great Taste 3-star, which will have been sanctioned by over 20 expert palates, and this year just 241 products have been awarded this top accreditation. Of the 3-star winners, 138 are UK based and 103 from international producers, including chocolate from Australia, Sweden and USA, beer from Germany, Lebanese tahini, Cambodian pepper and cheeses from Croatia, Norway, Bulgaria, Italy and Spain, among many other interesting and innovative products.

Past winners have claimed that displaying a Great Taste sticker has increased sales by as much as 50%, as consumers from around the globe clamour to taste the best food and drink products each year.

What is Great Taste?

Recognised as a stamp of excellence and actively sought out by food lovers and retailers alike, Great Taste, organised by the Guild of Fine Food, values taste above all else. All products in the line-up for judging are blind-tasted: every product is removed from its packaging so it cannot be identified, before entering a robust, layered judging process. This year, the judging took place over 90 days across two judging locations (Dorset and London).

Great Taste's prestigious judging panel is made up of over 500 food & drink professionals, including critics, chefs, recipe creators, buyers, retailers, journalists, broadcasters, and experts in the field. This experienced panel, each with trusted palates, have together tasted and re-judged the 3-star winning products to crown the Golden Forks trophy winners as well as the Great Taste 2022 Supreme Champion.

To learn more visit – https://gff.co.uk/  

The full list of this year's winners and where to buy them can be found at www.greattasteawards.co.uk and a wide range of the award-winning products are available to buy in delis, farm shops and independent retail outlets across the country.

Non-tipsy cocktails for Christmas

As Christmas comes nearer, the planning of lunches and Yuletide and New Year celebrations with family and friends commences. With an exciting and flavourful range of premium organic soft drinks, Luscombe has something for every occasion and every taste, from elegant alternatives to alcohol to delicious additions to mocktails and cocktails. 

All of Luscombe's drinks can be purchased online from www.luscombe.co.uk.

Cranberry Crush

A festive favourite, vivid Cranberry Crush is a wonderful accompaniment to traditional roast turkey but also guaranteed to make a statement on any drinks table.  Using the best organic cranberries combined with Madagascan vanilla, it has a hint of caramel from Damascene rose water which rounds the crisp sharpness of the berries.  Available in a box of 12 x 27cl, £21.30.

Damascene Rose Bubbly

Raise a toast with a flute of chilled organic Damascene Rose Bubbly, an elegant alternative to Champagne. Gently effervescent and delicately fragranced with a distinct yet subtle flavour, Damascene rose water is married with organic Muscat grape juice and Sicilian lemon and is part of Luscombe's no added raw cane sugar range.  Delightful served at Christmas gatherings paired with canapés, it is available in a box of 12 x 27cl, £21.30 or 6 x 74cl, £22.00.

Hot Ginger Beer

With warmth and spice, Luscombe's authentic Hot Ginger Beer is a popular choice during the festive season. A classic winter warmer which packs some punch, organic Hot Ginger Beer is crafted using only the best organic Peruvian fresh root ginger, Sicilian lemons and carbonated Dartmoor spring water, giving it a distinctive yet not overpowering heat. Available in a box of 12 x 27cl, £21.30.

Ginger Beer Gift Set

Searching for a gift or stocking filler for a spice lover, Luscombe's Ginger Beer Gift Set includes four 27cl bottles made up of their famed Hot, Cool and Passionate Ginger Beers.  The organic Cool Ginger Beer is just as complex in taste as the punchier organic Hot Ginger Beer but boasts a subtler warmth. While the intriguing organic Passionate Ginger Beer brings together the heat, spice and full body of a ginger beer with the sweetness of organic passion fruit juice - resulting in a luxurious twist on a Luscombe classic. The Ginger Beer Gift Set is available to buy from luscombe.co.uk, £12.99.

With the help of master mixologist Louis Xavier Lewis-Smith, Luscombe has created two seasonal cocktail recipes, 'Open Fire' and 'The Sicilian', perfect for wowing guests this festive season.

Cocktail Recipes

Open Fire

Ingredients

35ml Hattiers Resolute Navy Strength Rum 

15ml Chestnut Liqueur

15ml freshly squeezed lime

15ml runny honey 

Top with Luscombe Hot Ginger Beer

Garnish - Lime wheel

Suggested glass - Rocks or tumbler 

Method

Combine the first four ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. 

After a good shake to dissolve the honey, strain into an ice-filled tumbler and top with Luscombe Hot Ginger Beer. 

Garnish with a chunky lime wheel.  

The Sicilian

Ingredients

35ml Devon Distillery SloeD 

20ml Campari 

20ml sweet vermouth 

Top with Luscombe Sicilian Lemonade 

Garnish - Clove-studded orange peel

Suggested glass - Rocks / tumbler 

Method

Stud a long slice of orange peel with cloves. Don't be shy with the cloves. 

Put the sloe gin, Campari and sweet vermouth in a mixing glass with ice and stir for a good 15 seconds. 

Strain into a rocks glass with the studded orange and lots of ice, and top with Luscombe Sicilian Lemonade. 

Give the drink one last little stir for luck and to get the cloves working.  

Luscombe crafts a range of organic fruit juices, crushes, bubblies, tonic waters and mixers plus a traditional organic Devon cider.  They have been producing beautifully crafted drinks on a farm in Devon since 1975 with founder and owner, Gabriel David, having become renowned for his pursuit of perfection and no compromise approach to creating an elegant and multi award-winning range of drinks that use the very finest organic ingredients and Dartmoor spring water.  Follow Luscombe on Twitter: @luscombedrinks, Instagram: luscombedrinks or 'Like' on Facebook.   

Cherish Christmas memories with the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar

You can truly cherish family and friends this Christmas with a gorgeous, highly desirable Bonne Maman Advent Calendar – the 24 doors offer 23 mini jars of exclusive seasonal flavours of delicious jam - each one different - along with two very special surprise gifts on day one and day 24.

This year's Advent Calendar features a joyful creation of a Christmas carousel centred around a snowy Christmas tree laden with decorations and gifts. 

The first 23 doors each hide an adorable mini jar of jam or marmalade, every one offering an exclusive fruit variety or unique flavour combination created especially for Christmas 2022.

The perfect way to say Joyeux Noël to loved ones during the holiday season, the Bonne Maman Advent Calendar starts the Christmas countdown with an additional little present on day one and then on Christmas Eve another perfect mini gift behind door 24 to usher in the big day itself.

Each day offers a new, delectable and seasonal taste sensation to enjoy at every breakfast or tea over the Christmas period. Delight in finding a 30g mini jar of White Nectarine & Peach with Lemon Verbena? Or perhaps Pear with Cocoa Nibs? 

Or perhaps discover a new favourite with Chestnut & Orange with Spices? Apricot with Bergamot? or Strawberry & Star Anise?  The empty jars can also be saved and upcycled into pretty Christmas decorations or stocking filler treats for Christmas day itself.

The Bonne Maman Advent Calendar is available to order from September online at www.bonnemaman.co.uk  at £25.99 + p&p. The calendar will also be available from Ocado, Booths, Fenwick and WH Smith plus other selected specialist stores.