Celebrate World Chocolate Day With Darts Farm's Cow & Cacao

Darts Farm's artisan chocolatier, Cow & Cacao, has everything you could possibly require to celebrate World Chocolate Day on 7th July. 

They are justifiably proud to be one of the few UK producers to craft chocolate from bean to bar and their handcrafted treats are available to buy in their Devon-based store and online for nationwide delivery from www.dartsfarm.co.uk.

Darts Farm believes in chocolate that's not only environmentally but also economically sustainable, from forest to food hall. Their priority is sourcing incredible cacao from smaller scale growers in rare origins around the world to use with milk from their own local dairy and other ingredients from their own farm.

In small batches, their chocolatiers, Louise & Molly, carefully roast the beans, before cracking the shell to release the nib. They then grind the nibs in a granite mixer, the 'conche', for up to fifty-five hours before ageing the chocolate in 5kg bricks for up to three weeks. Finally, they melt it down to create bars, truffles and incredible handcrafted artisanal chocolate treats.

When visiting the farm shop, you'll be able to see the whole chocolate making process taking place with Darts Farm priding themselves on educating their customers on single origin cacao and bean-to-bar chocolate. They even run regular chocolate making masterclasses, too!

For a taste of their amazing chocolate at home, indulge in their Chocolate Lover's Hamper (£29). It contains a selection of their Cow & Cacao bean-to-bar chocolate; from handcrafted truffles and a Single Origin Chocolate Bar to Chocolate Dipped Oranges. For real chocoholics try their Ultimate Chocolate Lover's Hamper  (£49) which boasts even more of their fabulous artisan treats including a White Chocolate & Strawberry Broken Slab.

For more information on Cow & Cacao visit the website

For further information on Darts Farm please visit www.dartsfarm.co.uk and follow Darts Farm on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.  

Buy Witt's Pizza Ovens via Amazon Prime Week

Top-selling and award-winning Scandinavian Witt’s Pizza Oven range has been wowing reviewers and customers with its ultra-fast heating and rotating technology since its launch earlier this year, receiving 5 STAR reviews and accreditations in publications like BBC Good Food, Ideal Home, and the Independent. 

This Amazon Prime week, Witt has wrapped up all the tools you'll require to make pizza like a pro in one convenient discounted package.

Buy the Witt Etna Fermo (RRP £579.00) or the Witt Rotante (RRP £699.00) and receive a free bundle of pizza making accessories worth over a cool £110, including the Witt Perforated Pizza Peel 14’ (RRP £54.99), Witt Wood Pizza Rolling Pin (RRP £29.99), and the Witt Pizza Oven Brush (RRP £29.99). 

This delicious offer kicks off on Monday 10th July and runs until Monday 24th July.  

https://www.wittpizza.com/

That's Christmas: Merry Christmutts! Duerr's & Sons Ltd's 'Peamutt B...

That's Christmas: Merry Christmutts! Duerr's & Sons Ltd's 'Peamutt B...: Long-established Manchester-based Duerrs & Sons Ltd is launching its first Peamutt Butter Christmas gift pack exclusive to Sainsbury&#39...

Eton Mess available at Humble Crumble

Founder of Humble Crumble Kim Innes was a student in Brighton when she realised that during the winter months, the town's ice cream parlours were virtually deserted. 

She bagan to wonder what kind of treat would go over well when it's cold outside? It was then she came up with the idea of the world's first crumble bar. 

Humble Crumble, which is the world's first crumble bar solely dedicated to making perfect British grab-and-go crumbles, has opened its largest premises ever within London's Old Spitalfields Market to cope with the demand for its delicious and delectable crumbles. 

You can even ask for unlimited custard! Londoners and visitors to the capital can't get enough of this traditional treat, with over half a million crumbles sold since the business launched fives years ago in 2018. 

Founder Kim Innes, 28, was named in the Natwest X Telegraph's 100 Female Entrepreneurs to watch in 2022 and there's absolutely no stopping her with two new sites planned this summer in Camden and Covent Garden. With a super cool slick iPad ordering system, you won't have to wait long for a taste of deliciousness. 

Humble Crumble only uses sustainably produced ingredients because of its commitment to knowing that where we buy our food has a big impact on the world. Follow Humble Crumble on Instagram @humblecrumble and visit the website https://www.humble-crumble.com/

You'll find the new Humble Crumble Bakery at:

Old Spitalfields Market, 105C Commercial St, London E1 6BG

Opening hours 10am - 9pm every day

Nearest Tubes: Liverpool Street, Shoreditch High Street.

All foods give you cancer?

If you follow the news it seems that all foods give you cancer and that the incidents of cancer are rapidly growing.

But if we are eating the same foods as we previously did, how come the risk of cancer is now rapidly growing?

Implicated by some campaigners are: Processed meats, tinned foods, fried food, "overcooked" food, eggs, dairy, sugar, artificial sweeteners and alcohol. 

But! Researchers for Cancer Research UK have completely refuted these claims. And casts doubts on certain superfoods as being helpful in warding off cancer.

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/diet-and-cancer/food-controversies

CRUK says: 

"Eating sugar doesn’t cause cancer."

"Eating burnt food does not cause cancer."

"Artificial sweeteners don’t cause cancer."

"Eating eggs does not cause cancer."

"Eating canned or tinned food does not affect cancer risk."

"Eating soy products does not affect cancer risk, including breast cancer."

Obviously eating a healthy diet is important, but many of the claims by some campaigners should be taken with a healthy pinch of salt. And don't get me started on salt! However, seeing as you asked... 

"5 Reasons Why Salt is Good for You According to Medicine by Dr Steven Lin"

https://www.drstevenlin.com/salt-good-for-you/

Image courtesy of PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay)

Top family Lancashire cheesemakers reap rewards

Famed fourth-generation Lancashire family cheesemakers, Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses have scooped a stunning 26 awards at the prestigious International Cheese & Dairy Awards (ICDA) 2023.

Cementing Butlers' credentials as the pioneers of high quality British farmhouse cheese, Butlers won awards across its blue, hard and soft varieties including cow's, sheep's and goat's milk. The award haul is Butlers' best ever at the annual ICDA show, having won 19 awards in 2022. 

Key awards include a trophy for the Best Ewes Milk Cheese for Parlick Brie, and Gold for Parlick Olive. Butlers is the biggest British cheesemaker and supplier of sheep's milk cheese in the UK, and is driving a resurgence in popularity of sheep's milk cheese. 

Gold awards were also given for Mrs Butlers Creamy in the Creamy Lancashire Block cheese category; Mature your Own Blacksticks in the packaging category, Beacon Blue in the blue veined goats category and Kidderton Ash in the vegetarian soft category.

Matthew Hall, who is the fourth-generation owner at Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses said, “The ICDA is a key calendar date for cheesemakers globally, and to be recognised with these accolades across our range of hard, blue and soft cheeses is absolutely fantastic and deserved recognition for the hard work of our talented team. As a 90-year old Lancashire family business, we're leading the British cheese renaissance in the UK, it's a really exciting place to be, and there is still so much more to come!"

Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses was founded in 1932 when Richard and Annie Butler made just a handful of Lancashire cheeses in their family kitchen. Butlers produce more than 1,000 tonnes of farmhouse cheese annually, provide employment for in excess of 100 people, are suppliers to all major UK retailers and also operate their own dedicated online cheese store which delivers nationwide. Butlers is currently recruiting in its production and engineering team, for more information visit butlerscheeses.co.uk/pages/careers 

butlerscheeses.co.uk

Pukpip on the Path to Rapid Growth Following New Trend for Frozen Snacking

The first six months for Pukpip has proven the consumer demand for permissible yet indulgent frozen fruit snacks. Pukpip's Frozen Bananas Dipped in Chocolate are being snapped up by UK retailers and enjoyed by consumers across the whole country.  

Following the successful launch of Milk Chocolate and Dark Chocolate, Pukpip has now added White Chocolate Dipped Frozen Bananas to the range, CLF and Suma are the first to add the White Chocolate option to their wholesale distribution. 

New Pukpip White Chocolate Dipped Frozen Bananas combine deliciously sweet real frozen banana, with creamy white chocolate with yummy hints of vanilla. A wonderfully delicious pairing. Only 152 calories per frozen banana and a source of fibre and potassium, too.  

The latest retailer to see the potential is Planet Organic, having listed the Dark Chocolate to all their London stores. Pukpip products are also stocked with Vegan Kind and Whole Foods Market, and all three chocolate options are now available to order online with Wholefoods Box. 

“Our consumer research indicated a demand for frozen snacks that combine a balance of whole fruit with a bit of indulgence, but now the products are in bricks and mortar stores the response has been amazing! Our stockists have said that they're flying out of the freezers and consumer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. We're thrilled to be able to add the White Chocolate Dipped Frozen Bananas to the range, which is set to have wide appeal for both kids and grown-ups alike.” says Zara Godfrey, Managing Director at Pukpip's MD. 

According to the BFFF (British Frozen Food Federation) frozen food has seen something of a renaissance over recent years as it proves to be more applicable to modern lifestyles and helps to reduce waste and preserve nutrients. Frozen Foods are now more important than ever, and innovation continues to see what are described as challenger brands leading the way.  

Perfectly tapping into the trend of permissible yet indulgent snacking, Pukpip's frozen bananas provide the balance of wholesome goodness with indulgent frozen snacking and are challenging the ice cream category with whole, real fruit. The wide appeal of a real fruit treat that is only 152 – 161 Kcal, is gluten free, vegan (Dark Chocolate only), and nothing artificial is enabling Pukpip to come to the forefront in the ice cream category and new food innovations. 

Pukpip has also featured in Asda's Trends Book for 2023/2024ii , the book highlights the trend for products with fewer ingredients and reduced processing. With Pukpip products being simply banana and chocolate, consumers know what to expect and can easily add more fruit into their diet via this fun, frozen, fruity snack. 

Consumer awareness of the impact our food choices have on the environment has also helped Pukpip to position itself, by rescuing wonky bananas that would otherwise go to waste and helping them find their true calling as tasty, chocolate-covered treats. The banana peels are also upcycled back into the ecosystem.  

The next step for Pukpip will be the launch of singles this summer. Available to retailers and hospitality for both on-the-go snacking and as a dessert option for restaurants and cafes. Pukpip's singles are ideally placed to fit amongst the handheld ice creams as natures alternative to ice cream, a permissible on-the-go snack. 

Pukpip Real Frozen Bananas are only 152-161 calories each, contain nothing artificial and can be enjoyed as a snack, treat or dessert. Pukpip has been shortlisted in this year's Health & Wellbeing Awards in the Healthy Snacks category. The Milk Chocolate Dipped Bananas have picked up a 2022 Great Taste Award, the Dark Chocolate Dipped Bananas have been Vegan Certified, and the White Chocolate is the latest addition to the range. Pukpip's frozen bananas are available to trade in in multipacks of 3 at an RRP of £3.99, singles coming soon.

To become a stockist or to find out more email hello@pukpip.com or visit www.pukpip.com. Follow @hellopukpip for news and updates. 

Great British Food Festival is Back!

The GBFF is now halfway through their festival tour, with six events across the UK to go. Beginning the second half of their tour at Knebworth House, Stevenage on the 15th & 16th July. And they'll be eager to bring the foodie fun to Hertfordshire again.

They have 100s of artisan producers, street food stalls and bars accompanied by some fabulous celebrity chefs, bakers and talented musicians.

You can do some shopping, grab some food and then have a well-earned relax with a local beer (or two) listening to some great live entertainment with the whole fam! Don't forget, they are canine friendly too.

www.GreatBritishFoodFestival.com.

Pulsin Unveils New Delicious Complete Vegan Range of Blended Protein Powders

Awesome feel-good nutrition specialists, Pulsin, has announced an exciting new range of delicious flavours to add to its multi- award-winning, vegan, plant-based, protein-rich powders.

These innovative new blends mark a significant expansion of Pulsin's plant-based protein range, catering to the evolving tastes and preferences of health-conscious consumers.

Available in four truly tempting and indulgent flavours, the Complete Vegan Protein Blends offer a new taste experience to suit every palate. The Berry variant brings a burst of fruity freshness, whilst Chocolate delivers a rich, satisfying cocoa experience. 

The Chocolate Hazelnut powder combines the classic pairing of chocolate and hazelnut for a delightful twist, and the Vanilla flavour provides a smooth and delightfully creamy profile that can be enjoyed on its own or as a versatile base for personalised recipes.

As the demand for vegan protein alternatives continues to soar, Pulsin remains deeply committed to providing high-quality and nutritious products at the forefront of the industry, and to consistently delivering products that are both delicious and also nutritionally beneficial.

The Complete Vegan Protein Blend powders are crafted from a combination of high-quality pea, faba and pumpkin seed proteins, ensuring a complete and balanced amino acid profile, making them an ideal choice for individuals looking to enhance their fitness goals or maintain a proper, balanced diet.

Each blend is carefully formulated to provide a rich source of protein, packing an impressive 20g of plant-based goodness per serving which can help aid recovery after workouts and boost muscle growth and energy levels as part of a healthy, active lifestyle. 

All of Pulsin’s plant-based protein powders range can be mixed with water or a plant-based milk to create a delicious shake. They also taste great when blended with fresh fruit and vegetables to pack a nutritional punch and will help you stay feeling fuller for longer by balancing blood sugars levels and limiting those pesky energy crashes.

Announcing the launch, Pulsin's MD, Lisa Butler says, ”We're obviously thrilled to introduce our new Complete Vegan Protein Blend in these exciting flavours.

She went on to say: "At Pulsin, we understand the importance of offering both nutritious and great-tasting options to individuals following a vegan or plant-based lifestyle,  or those that want to add more protein into their diet. With our new range, we aim to provide an exceptional protein solution that meets their dietary requirements without compromising on taste or quality."

Like all of its plant-based protein powders, Pulsin's Complete Vegan Protein Blend isn't just vegan-friendly but it's also free from gluten, dairy, and soy, thus making it ideal and perfectly suitable for individuals with specific dietary needs or restrictions. Each new blend  is made with all-natural ingredients, there are no artificial additives, colours, or preservatives, ensuring a clean, utterly wholesome protein source.

Pulsin's Complete Vegan Protein Blend is now available for purchase via the official Pulsin website (www.pulsin.co.uk) and selected retail partners. Pulsin continues to innovate and develop new products that promote overall health and well-being, empowering individuals to make informed choices and lead balanced lifestyles.

One month to go until Alcohol Duty system changes

Today marks one month until the biggest Alcohol Duty reforms in 140 years come into effect.

On 1 August 2023, the Alcohol Duty system will become much simpler, taxing all alcoholic drinks based on their alcohol by volume (ABV).

This replaces the current Alcohol Duty system, which consists of four separate taxes covering beer, cider, spirits, wine and made-wine.

It's aim is to make the system fairer and responsive to new products entering the market as consumer tastes evolve and change.

Small producers, including pubs and restaurants, will benefit from reduced rates on qualifying products, like draught beer and cider.

The new system reflects the government’s commitment to tax simplification, helping to foster the right conditions for businesses to prosper and the economy to grow, which reportedly one of the Prime Minister’s five priorities.

Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury Gareth Davies said: “Because we left the EU we can make certain our alcohol duty system works for us. From next month the whole system will be much simpler, the duty will reflect the strength of the drink.

“We will also protect pubs and brewers with our Brexit Pubs Guarantee keeping Draught Duty down, and a new Small Producer Relief."

Jonathan Athow, Director General of Customer Strategy & Tax Design, HMRC, said: “After listening to feedback from industry, economists, public health groups and many business owners, the new Alcohol Duty system will be based on the founding principle of taxing alcoholic products by strength, ensuring consistency across the board for the first time ever.

“The new system will support the government’s public health objectives and provide extra support to small producers, pubs and the hospitality sector.”

The new system will create six standardised alcohol duty bands across all types of alcoholic products and apply to all individuals and businesses involved in the manufacture, distribution, holding and sale of alcoholic products across the UK.

These reforms will replace and extend the existing Small Brewers Relief with Small Producer Relief. This means all small businesses that produce any alcoholic products with an ABV of less than 8.5% will be eligible for reduced rates on qualifying products, if they produce less than 4,500 hectolitres per year.

To support the hospitality industry, and recognising the vital role played by pubs in our communities, there will also be a reduced rate for draught products, which is known as Draught Relief. This will reduce Alcohol Duty on qualifying beer and cider by 9.2%, and by 23% on qualifying wine-based, spirits-based and other fermented products, sold in on-trade premises such as pubs and restaurants.

The reforms will mean every pint in every pub across the UK will pay less duty than their supermarket equivalent, in line with the government’s Brexit Pubs Guarantee.

To support wine producers and importers in moving to the new method of calculating duty on their products, temporary arrangements will be in place for 18 months from 1 August 2023 until 1 February 2025.

To support innovation and responsible drinking, low strength drinks below 3.5% ABV will be charged at a new lower rate of duty. In making these changes, the government aims to encourage product innovation and ensure the Alcohol Duty system works for business and consumers.

More information on the new Alcohol Duty rates and reliefs can be found on GOV.UK.

Those involved in the production of smaller quantities of alcoholic products, can check the reduced rates of duty that apply to them by using the Small Producer Relief calculator. HMRC is also running a series of live webinars throughout July 2023 and in the months ahead to further support the alcohol industry through these changes.