The Unsung Hero of Hospitality: Why Hygiene is Vital in Bars, Pubs, Hotels, and Restaurants

In the bustling hospitality industry, where the clinking of glasses and the aroma of delectable dishes fill the air, there's an unsung hero that often goes unnoticed: hygiene. 

Whether you're sipping a cocktail at a bar, enjoying a meal at a restaurant, or staying in a cosy hotel room, hygiene plays a pivotal, vital role in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for patrons. 

Here, we delve into why hygiene is of vital importance in bars, pubs, hotels, and restaurants.

Customer Health and Safety:

The foremost reason for prioritising hygiene in hospitality establishments is customer health and safety. Foodborne illnesses and hygiene-related issues cannot only ruin a guest's experience but also pose severe health risks. Maintaining clean and sanitised surfaces, employing proper food handling procedures, and regular sanitation of utensils and equipment are essential in preventing the spread of bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants.

Reputation and Trust:

In the age of online reviews and social media, and good old fashioned word of mouth, a single hygiene mishap can quickly tarnish a venue's reputation. Conversely, establishments known for their impeccable hygiene standards earn trust and loyalty from patrons. 

Word-of-mouth recommendations and positive online reviews often highlight cleanliness as a significant factor in choosing where to dine or stay. Therefore, maintaining high hygiene standards not only safeguards the health of customers but also enhances the reputation of the establishment.

Legal Compliance:

Hygiene regulations and standards are not merely suggestions; they are legal requirements that hospitality businesses must adhere to. Health inspections, food safety regulations, and sanitation guidelines are enforced by local health authorities to protect public health. Non-compliance can lead to fines, closure orders, or even legal action, resulting in significant financial losses and damage to the establishment's reputation.

Employee Well-being:

Hygiene in hospitality extends beyond customer-facing areas; it also encompasses the well-being of employees. Providing a clean and safe working environment is essential for staff morale, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. Proper hygiene practices, including regular handwashing, wearing clean uniforms, and maintaining personal hygiene standards, not only promote a healthy workforce but also contribute to a positive workplace culture.

Sustainability:

Hygiene practices in hospitality also intersect with sustainability efforts. By reducing food waste through proper storage and handling, conserving water through efficient cleaning methods, and minimising the use of single-use plastics and disposable items, establishments can contribute to environmental sustainability. Additionally, adopting eco-friendly cleaning products and practices further demonstrates a commitment to both hygiene and environmental responsibility. However, some so-called eco-friendly cleaning products are not very efficient at cleaning and might even damage dishwashing machines and washing machines by leaving very sticky bentonite clay in the machines and waste pipes.

In conclusion, hygiene is the cornerstone of a successful and reputable hospitality establishment. From ensuring customer health and safety to safeguarding reputation, complying with legal regulations, promoting employee well-being, and contributing to sustainability efforts, the importance of hygiene cannot be overstated. 

By prioritising cleanliness and implementing robust hygiene protocols, bars, pubs, hotels, and restaurants can create a welcoming and safe environment where patrons can indulge in memorable experiences with peace of mind.

My wife has a BSc level qualification in hygiene and cleaning techniques and she can generally tell at a glance if a pub, restaurant or hotel is safe enough to eat or drink in or to stay.  

Chefs need to be smart and presentable at all times. Which is where the Smart Hospitality Supplies Chef Clothing Collection for 2024 comes in

Elevate your kitchen attire with the 2024 Chefs Wear Range from Smart Hospitality Supplies, offering stylish options at genuinely competitive prices.

Smart Hospitality Supplies, which is a renowned name for over two decades in the hospitality sector, has launched its latest professional Chefs Wear range for 2024. 

This collection really does redefine culinary apparel, combining cutting-edge design with functionality and style, perfectly tailored to the contemporary chef's dynamic needs.

The range offers a fresh perspective on classic chef attire. Each piece in the collection, from the ergonomically designed shoes to the breathable, stylish jackets, has been carefully designed and equally carefully crafted, ensuring that chefs such as yourself are equipped with comfortable wearables that enhance your professional appearance and efficiency in the kitchen.

What's included in the 2024 Chefs Clothing Range?

Chef Neckerchiefs: Reviving a Timeless Classic

Leading the range are chef neckerchiefs, reimagined for the more modern cook of today's kitchens. Available in a range of colours, these neckerchiefs are a nod to the traditional chef attire but also serve a functional purpose, providing comfort and sweat absorption during those really intense kitchen moments.

Chef Jackets: Elegance and Practicality Combined

The collection's centrepiece is the chef jacket, which offers a modern and sleek design yet whilst also being eminently practical. These jackets pay tribute to the rich tradition of chef attire yet at the same time incorporating stylish heat-resistant buttons, breathable fabrics, and well-placed pockets to provide comfort and a polished appearance. This blend of traditional and contemporary functionality is an outstanding feature of any chef.

Chef Trousers: Where Style Meets Function

Smart's Chef trousers are designed with both style and practicality at the forefront. Made using carefully selected durable yet comfortable fabrics, they offer chefs flexibility and ease of movement for busy kitchen environments. These trousers are available in various styles and patterns, allowing chefs to express individuality while maintaining professional functionality.

Chef Aprons: A Functional Necessity

Chef aprons are crafted with a genuine and deep understanding of a modern chef's requirements in the kitchen. These aprons, spanning the entire range, serve as indispensable protective gear against the inevitable spills and splatters during the creative chaos of culinary endeavours. Aprons also typically include convenient pockets, enabling chefs to store their utensils for instant, easy access.

Chef Shoes: Redefining Comfort in the Kitchen

The selection of chef shoes featuring renowned brands such as the likes of Abeba, Birkenstock and Crocs, illustrates a strong commitment to quality and comfort in professional kitchen footwear. The design focuses on superior grip, support, and different styles to ensure chefs can endure long hours on their feet in the kitchen.

Chef Hats: The Finishing Touch

The chef hats in Smart's portfolio are carefully designed for comfort and practicality and to enhance a chef's professional appearance. These hats uphold the professional image, adding classiness and functionality. They offer comfort, maintain hygiene, and symbolise expertise, aiding kitchen identification.

Chef Clothing online, at the click of a button

Smart Hospitality Supplies offers a wide selection of chef clothing with competitive pricing and swift shipping. This marks out Smart Hospitality as something special, an excellent choice for restaurants, hotels and pubs seeking top-quality chef attire that fits their budget and time constraints.

And they don't just stock high quality kitchen clothing. So for those and all your other hospitality needs, whether kitchen equipment, cleaning and disposables, furniture, or bespoke menu covers, please visit www.smartuk.net or when you have a break in your busy kitchen schedule, why not give them a call on  01743 465301?

How to cook your Valentine the perfect steak

Would you like to learn how to cook your Valentine the perfect steak? Of course you would!

And our friends over at Tropical Sun have asked us to feature this video presentation which will teach you all you need to know.

And you can learn more about the Tropical Sun range of foods, spices, herbs and drinks here:- https://tropicalsunfoods.com.

The Unfair Burden: How UK Taxation Penalises Pubs Over Supermarkets

In the United Kingdom, the quintessential pub still holds a cherished place in the hearts of many. Pubs are a cornerstone of community life, a place where friends and family gather, stories are shared, and bonds are strengthened over pints of ale and glasses of wine. 

However, despite their cultural significance, pubs across the nation face a significant and, some might argue, unfair burden when it comes to taxation compared to their retail counterpart. Supermarkets.

The discrepancy in taxation between pubs and supermarkets stems from various factors, including the way each business is structured and the different tax rates they are subject to. Here, we delve into the intricacies of this issue, exploring why it's time for a fairer approach to taxation that supports the survival of these vital community hubs.

VAT Disparity:

Value Added Tax (VAT) is a consumption tax which is levied on goods and services. Currently, pubs in the UK are subject to a 20% VAT rate on most items, including food and drink. In contrast, supermarkets benefit from a reduced VAT rate of 0% on many (essential) food items. This VAT discrepancy places pubs at a distinct disadvantage, as they are unable to compete with supermarkets on price due to the higher tax burden they face.

Business Rates:

Business rates are another significant expense for pubs and retailers alike. However, the way these rates are calculated can disproportionately impact pubs. Business rates for pubs are often calculated based on the property's rental value, which tends to be higher in prime locations. In contrast, supermarkets can benefit from economies of scale and lower rates per square foot due to their larger footprint and often out-of-town locations.

Alcohol Duty:

Pubs heavily rely on the sale of alcoholic beverages as a primary source of revenue. However, the duty on alcohol, including beer, wine, and spirits, places an additional financial strain on pubs. While supermarkets also pay alcohol duty, they can offset this cost through their diverse product offerings and higher sales volumes, whereas pubs are more reliant on alcohol sales and may struggle to absorb the increased costs.

Social Impact:

Beyond the financial implications, the disparity in taxation between pubs and supermarkets has broader social ramifications. Pubs play a vital role in fostering social connections, reducing loneliness, and providing a safe and inclusive environment for communities to come together. By penalizing pubs through unfair taxation, we risk undermining the very fabric of our society and eroding the communal spaces that are integral to our cultural identity.

Addressing the Disparity:

To address the imbalance in taxation between pubs and supermarkets, policymakers must take proactive measures to level the playing field and support the sustainability of pubs. This could include:

Reviewing VAT Rates: Consideration should be given to reducing the VAT rate for pubs or introducing tiered VAT rates based on business size or turnover to alleviate the tax burden on smaller establishments.

Reforming Business Rates: Reforming the business rates system to ensure a fairer and more equitable distribution of tax burdens, taking into account factors such as property size, location, and economic contribution to the community.

Fairer Alcohol Duty: Exploring options to reform alcohol duty to ensure a more equitable distribution of tax burdens across the hospitality sector, taking into account the different business models and revenue streams of pubs and supermarkets.

Recognising Social Value: Acknowledging the social value of pubs and the important role they play in communities by considering alternative metrics beyond purely economic factors when formulating tax policies.

Pubs are not just businesses; they are the lifeblood of our communities, providing a space for social interaction, cultural exchange, and collective belonging. However, the unfair burden of taxation placed on pubs compared to supermarkets threatens their viability and jeopardises the unique social fabric they contribute to. 

It's time for our policymakers to recognise the vital role pubs play in our society and implement fairer taxation policies that support their sustainability and ensure they continue to thrive for generations to come.

Please step to one side, other brands. Because Varo Coffee is here

Sip, savour & celebrate with VARO Coffee's journey of passion and flavour. Are you ready for the coffee of a lifetime? The wait is finally over. VARO coffee is here to take the industry by storm.

Embark on a coffee journey like never before with VARO Coffee, where each cup is a testament to the artistry and dedication that goes into crafting the perfect brew. 

VARO stands at the intersection of innovation and tradition, sourcing the finest coffee beans from sustainable, organic plantations in Peru, Guatemala, and India and roasting them locally in the UK using only the latest in cutting-edge technology. 

This unique blend of global flavours and local expertise results in a coffee experience that caters to the diverse tastes of consumers. From bold and rich Extravagance to the smooth and mellow Elegance blend, VARO Coffee promises an unparalleled sensory adventure for coffee enthusiasts. The coffee capsules are compatible with standard Nespresso coffee machines.

Get ready to elevate your coffee experience with VARO. Where passion meets perfection.

Extravagance Coffee Capsules, from £8

Enjoy the inviting scent of molasses and smokiness, encouraging you to relish every moment. With each sip, experience the fusion of fruity notes and subtle hints of tobacco, creating a compelling taste that lingers. Extravagance offers a flavourful journey for your taste buds, bringing joy and delight to every cup.

Indulgent Vanilla Coffee Capsules, from £8

This brew has a mellow acidity and a velvety texture that really does stand out. You'll notice the inviting aroma of vanilla and cocoa, making it hard to resist. The first sip takes you into a world of delightful vanilla sweetness and subtle cocoa notes, perfectly balanced for your enjoyment.

Extravagance Decaf Coffee Capsules, £8

Bringing the same fantastic taste as its caffeinated counterpart, but without the buzz. Prepare for a delightful adventure with every sip. Experience the fusion of fruity notes and a touch of tobacco, creating a captivating and lingering flavour.

Peru Single Origin Coffee Capsules, from £8

Experience the irresistible charm of this Single Origin from Peru. Delight your taste buds with its medium body and enchantingly sweet acidity and be captivated by the graceful dance of floral and citrus notes, accompanied by hints of luscious dark chocolate. The perfect blend of complexities.

Indulgence Hazelnut Coffee Capsules, from £8

This full-bodied coffee is a symphony of flavour that will delight your taste buds. The bright acidity adds a lively kick, while the fusion of hazelnut and cocoa creates a decadent and harmonious balance. Treat yourself to a blissful escape with every sip of this hazelnut-infused delight.

Elegance Coffee Capsules, from £8

A silky-smooth sip that dances on your taste buds. With a delicate touch of liveliness from its malic acidity, this coffee is like a graceful floral paradise mixed with ripe plum. Let this luxurious blend take your senses on an enchanting fruity adventure. Perfect for those with a refined palate seeking the finest indulgence.

To learn more and to place your orders please visit them at https://varocoffee.co.

And there's a rather handsome 10% off with your first order.

The Science of Flavour: Understanding the Basics of Taste and Aroma

That's Food and Drink doesn't normally deal with the science behind food and drink, but we have decided to branch out a little with this blogpost. We hope you like it.

Flavour can be described as a symphony of sensations that dance on our taste buds and titillate our olfactory senses, making every bite a journey of sensory delight. 

From the subtle sweetness of ripe fruits to the savory umami of a perfectly seared steak, flavors enrich our culinary experiences and add depth to our meals. But have you ever wondered about the science behind flavour? What exactly makes food taste the way it does? Let's delve into the fascinating world of taste and aroma to uncover the secrets behind our favorite flavours.

The Basics of Taste:

Taste, one of our primary senses, is often simplistically categorised into five basic tastes: sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami. Each taste sensation is detected by specialised receptors on our taste buds, located primarily on the tongue. Sweetness is typically associated with sugars, while saltiness signals the presence of sodium ions. Sourness arises from acids, bitterness from alkaloids, and umami from amino acids, particularly glutamate.

But taste perception is far more complex than just these five categories. Our taste buds can detect a myriad of flavour compounds, and the interplay between these compounds gives rise to the rich tapestry of flavours we experience. Furthermore, factors such as temperature, texture, and even colour can influence our perception of taste, showcasing the intricate nature of flavour perception.

The Role of Aroma:

While taste provides us with the basic building blocks of flavour, aroma adds another layer of complexity and nuance to our sensory experience. Aroma, or odour, is detected by receptors in our nasal passages when volatile compounds from food stimulate our olfactory system. In fact, studies suggest that up to 80% of what we perceive as taste actually comes from our sense of smell. That's interesting, I feel.

The synergy between taste and aroma is what creates the characteristic flavour profiles of different foods. For example, the aroma of freshly ground coffee beans complements its bitter taste, while the floral notes in a fine wine enhance its fruity sweetness. Aromas can evoke memories, stir emotions, and even influence our perception of taste, highlighting the integral role they play in shaping our culinary experiences.

The Science Behind Flavour Perception:

The perception of flavour is a complex process that involves the integration of sensory information from taste, aroma, and other sensory cues. When we take a bite of food, our brain processes signals from our taste buds, olfactory receptors, and even visual and auditory stimuli to create a holistic perception of flavour.

Moreover, individual differences in taste sensitivity and olfactory acuity can influence how we perceive flavors. Some people may be more sensitive to bitter compounds, while others may have a heightened ability to detect subtle aromas. Additionally, cultural and environmental factors can shape our flavour preferences and influence which tastes and aromas we find appealing.

Practical Applications:

Understanding the science of flavour has practical applications in various fields, from culinary arts to food science and beyond. Chefs use knowledge of flavour chemistry to create innovative dishes that tantalise the palate, while food scientists develop new flavour additives and enhancers to improve the taste of processed foods.

Furthermore, advancements in flavour science have led to the development of techniques such as molecular gastronomy, which explores the chemical and physical transformations that occur during cooking to create novel textures and flavours. By leveraging our understanding of flavour, we can continue to push the boundaries of culinary creativity and delight our senses with new and exciting taste experiences.

Flavour is a multisensory phenomenon that engages our taste buds, olfactory receptors, and other sensory faculties to create rich and diverse culinary experiences. By unraveling the science behind taste and aroma, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of flavour perception and the role it plays in shaping our relationship with food.

Whether we're savoring the delicate sweetness of a ripe peach or indulging in the savory richness of a decadent chocolate cake, understanding the basics of taste and aroma allows us to fully appreciate the artistry of flavour and enjoy the myriad sensations that food has to offer. So the next time you sit down to a meal, take a moment to savor the flavours dancing on your palate and marvel at the wondrous science behind every bite.

(Image courtesy of Restaurant Nuovo Antica Roma, Wittenbergplatz 5 from Pixabay)

Food Festivals Around the Globe: A Tantalising Tour of International Flavours

Food is more than just sustenance; it's a cultural experience, a way to connect with others, and a gateway to exploring different traditions and flavors from around the world. 

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culinary delights of different cultures is by attending food festivals. 

From street food extravaganzas to gourmet gatherings, food festivals offer a tantalising tour of international flavours that will leave your taste buds tingling and your senses heightened. Let's embark on a mouth-watering journey as we explore some of the most exciting food festivals around the globe.

La Tomatina - Buñol, Spain:

La Tomatina is perhaps one of the messiest yet most exhilarating food festivals in the world. Held annually in the small town of Buñol, Spain, this tomato-throwing extravaganza attracts thousands of visitors from all corners of the globe. Participants engage in a friendly battle, hurling ripe tomatoes at one another amidst a sea of red pulp and laughter. After the chaos subsides, the streets are transformed into a giant communal dining area, where revelers feast on delicious Spanish cuisine and sip on sangria late into the night.

Taste of Chicago - Chicago, USA:

As one of the largest food festivals in the world, Taste of Chicago is a culinary mecca for food enthusiasts. Held in Grant Park, this festival showcases the diverse culinary landscape of the Windy City, featuring dishes from over 80 local restaurants and food vendors. 

From deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs to gourmet cuisine from renowned chefs, there's something to satisfy every palate at Taste of Chicago. Live music, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities add to the festive atmosphere, making it a must-visit event for food lovers of all ages.

Dotonbori Street Food Festival - Osaka, Japan:

Osaka is renowned for its vibrant food scene, and Dotonbori Street Food Festival is the epitome of culinary excitement in this bustling city. Held along the iconic Dotonbori Canal, this festival showcases the best of Osaka's street food culture, with vendors serving up a mouth-watering array of takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and grilled skewers. The aroma of sizzling yakitori fills the air as visitors wander through the lively streets, sampling bite-sized delights from one stall to the next. With its energetic atmosphere and delectable offerings, Dotonbori Street Food Festival is a feast for the senses.

Oktoberfest - Munich, Germany:

No list of food festivals would be complete without mentioning Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival held annually in Munich, Germany. While beer is undoubtedly the main attraction, Oktoberfest also offers a smorgasbord of traditional Bavarian cuisine to complement the libations. 

From hearty pretzels and sausages to schnitzel and sauerkraut, there's no shortage of hearty fare to soak up the suds. Visitors can partake in lively folk dances, carnival rides, and parades, making Oktoberfest a celebration of Bavarian culture and hospitality.

Food festivals are more than just a culinary experience; they're a celebration of culture, community, and the universal joy of sharing a meal with others. Whether you're indulging in a tomato-throwing battle in Spain, sampling street food delicacies in Japan, or raising a stein at Oktoberfest in Germany, food festivals offer a tantalising tour of international flavors that will leave you craving more. So grab your fork and join the festivities as we embark on a mouth-watering journey around the globe. Cheers to good food, good company, and unforgettable culinary adventures!

To learn about local food festivals just Google "Food festivals near me."

(Image courtesy of Iulian Scutelnicu from Pixabay)

The Basics of Homemade Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfecting Your Pasta-Making Skills

Pasta is a beloved staple in many households, but have you ever considered making it from scratch? 

Homemade pasta offers a freshness and flavor that store-bought varieties simply can't match. Plus, the process of making pasta from scratch can be incredibly rewarding and surprisingly simple. 

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the steps of making homemade pasta, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the art of shaping and cooking.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

The beauty of homemade pasta lies in its simplicity. All you need are a few basic ingredients:

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and texture of the pasta.

Eggs: Bind the flour together and add richness.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the pasta.

Optional: Semolina flour or tipo "00" flour for a finer texture.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

Start by creating a mound of flour on a clean work surface. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add a pinch of salt. Using a fork, gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs until a shaggy dough forms.

Once the dough comes together, knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process helps develop the gluten in the flour, giving the pasta its characteristic chewiness.

Step 3: Rest the Dough

After kneading, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and shape.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has rested, divide it into smaller portions for easier handling. Using a rolling pin or pasta machine, roll out each portion of dough into thin sheets. If using a pasta machine, start with the widest setting and gradually decrease the thickness with each pass until you reach your desired thickness.

Step 5: Shape Your Pasta

Now comes the fun part – shaping your pasta! There are countless shapes and styles to choose from, including spaghetti, fettuccine, ravioli, and more. Experiment with different techniques and tools to create your favorite shapes.

Step 6: Cook and Enjoy

Once your pasta is shaped, it's time to cook it. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and carefully add the pasta. Fresh homemade pasta cooks much quicker than dried pasta, usually in just 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it and toss it with your favorite sauce or toppings. Whether you prefer a classic marinara, creamy Alfredo, or simple olive oil and garlic, homemade pasta is the perfect canvas for your culinary creations.

Making homemade pasta may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice and patience, anyone can master the art of pasta-making. By following this step-by-step guide, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious, fresh pasta that will impress family and friends alike. So roll up your sleeves, dust off your rolling pin, and get ready to elevate your pasta game to new heights!

(Image courtesy of Miroro from Pixabay)

Matthews Cotswold Flour Partners With Six Inches of Soil in Promoting Regenerative Farming

Matthews Cotswold Flour, one of the UK's oldest yet most innovative family-run flour mills, has partnered with Six Inches of Soil as part of its wider commitment to supporting and promoting regenerative farming methods that will turn the tide on the degradation of soil health.

Says Bertie Matthews, who is the Managing Director of Matthews Cotswold Flour: “Six Inches of Soil is a feature film which documents the inspiring story of young British farmers pioneering regenerative agriculture from the ground up and transforming the way they produce food in order to heal the soil, benefit our health and provide for local communities. 

"We are really thrilled and delighted to be able to partner with Six Inches of Soil to support this film and help share the importance of regenerative farming with as wide an audience as possible.”

Bertie continues: “Current farming practices have proven to have long term damages to our soils. We need to balance food availability and pricing with farming practices that regenerate soil fertility, not just sustain it. 

"We want to do everything we can do to ensure our business is helping to preserve the fertility of the soil for future generations. This is why we set up the Cotswold Grain Partnership, to guarantee a fair price for local farmers who are prepared to adopt regenerative farming methods.”

Bertie adds: “Regenerative farming practices promote healthier soils, provide healthier food, restore biodiversity and sequester carbon. We have already produced two wholly regeneratively farmed flours and our aim is that within the next ten years all our flours will be produced from grains that have been regeneratively farmed. As producers we want to provide consumers with affordable, healthy food that's better for the planet.”

Matthews Cotswold Flour has been a supporter of Six Inches of Soil for the past two years and, as one of the film partners, sponsored the sold out preview screening on Thursday 8th February at FarmEd in Shipton under Wychwood.

Bertie finishes: "It was a pleasure to support the screening of this new film and be part of the panel of speakers, alongside two of our farming partners. It was a privilege to be able to share our passion for regenerative farming and highlight its importance to the audience.”

With the help of its partners, the Six Inches of Soil team has created an online resource so people can dig deeper on regenerative farming, healthy soil, the food system, climate and nature. Their website also provides details of screening dates for the film.

For more information on Six Inches of Soil visit www.sixinchesofsoil.org or follow them on Facebook, Instagram and X.

For more information on Matthews Cotswold Flour visit www.cotswoldflour.com or follow @CotswoldFlour on Instagram or Facebook.

Digestive problems at the menopause

Tummy pain? Running to the loo? Feeling bloated? Many women develop an irritable bowel when they reach their 40s and beyond. 

But how do you know if this is the reason for your change in digestive symptoms, or whether there could be another underlying cause?

In the Winter 2023-24 issue of The Menopause Exchange newsletter, Dr Jeni Worden, Dorset GP, writes about digestive issues at the menopause and how your hormone fluctuations can affect your symptoms. She specifically talks about irritable bowel syndrome, gallstones and inflammatory bowel disease.

“For many women, their digestive symptoms come and go throughout their menstrual cycle,” says Norma Goldman. “When they reach the perimenopause and their periods become more irregular, it can be more difficult to know what’s affecting their digestive symptoms. HRT is known to make gallstones worse, but its impact on irritable bowel disease and inflammatory bowel disease is less clear. It’s important to discuss any changes in bowel habits with your GP.”

Other articles in the Winter 2023-24 issue of The Menopause Exchange quarterly newsletter include Menopause in the workplace, Progestogens in HRT and Osteoporosis after the menopause, as well as news, Ask the Experts Q&As and information about Norma Goldman’s webinars, talks and workshops.

The Menopause Exchange, which was established in 1999, is unbiased and independent and isn’t sponsored by any companies or organisations. Our free quarterly newsletter contains articles written by top UK medical experts, including menopause consultants, GPs, specialist menopause nurses, pharmacists, dietitians and complementary practitioners. We also include news, book reviews and our ‘Ask the experts’ page. Each issue of The Menopause Exchange’s free quarterly newsletter is emailed to over 13,000 people, including women, men, healthcare professionals, complementary therapists, workplace managers and journalists.

Menopause webinars: readers may be interested in organising a webinar for their family and friends or workplace. For over 24 years, Norma Goldman has been presenting menopause talks and workshops. Her in-depth knowledge has helped thousands of women enjoy a more comfortable menopause. She’s now hosting her own regular webinars via Zoom. 

Norma’s ‘Understanding the menopause’ webinar is suitable for women at or approaching the menopause, women who have had a premature menopause (before age 40) or a hysterectomy, or anyone with an interest in women’s midlife health. Post-menopausal women can attend presentations too. If women join the webinar, they’ll be able to ask questions, receive a factsheet and hear about other women’s experiences. To attend a webinar, arrange one for a group of friends or to find out more information, women should e-mail norma@menopause-exchange.co.uk or call 020 8420 7245.

To join The Menopause Exchange, anyone can sign up for free on their website, http://www.menopause-exchange.co.uk. You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter (@MenopauseExch).

(Image courtesy of Silvia from Pixabay)