That's Christmas: Why Buying Christmas Gifts on Amazon Supports Smal...

That's Christmas: Why Buying Christmas Gifts on Amazon Supports Smal...: As Christmas approaches, many of us turn to Amazon for the ease and convenience of finding gifts for loved ones.  What you might not realise...

That's Christmas: Celebrating Christmas in New Zealand: A Kiwi Summe...

That's Christmas: Celebrating Christmas in New Zealand: A Kiwi Summe...: While many of us associate Christmas with snow, hot chocolate, and cosy fires, Christmas in New Zealand tells a very different story.  Takin...

That's Christmas: A Warm Welcome to Bardinet French Brandy: Your Chr...

That's Christmas: A Warm Welcome to Bardinet French Brandy: Your Chr...: As the Christmas season approaches, many of us start planning our festive menus, stocking up on treats, and, most importantly, selecting the...

That's Christmas: Review of Glen Moray Twisted Vine Single Malt Scot...

That's Christmas: Review of Glen Moray Twisted Vine Single Malt Scot...: This is a truly spectacular find and one that deserves to be in Christmas stockings this year and also in your Christmas drinks cabinet. Whe...

That's Christmas: Baking Special Breads for Christmas Week: A Festiv...

That's Christmas: Baking Special Breads for Christmas Week: A Festiv...: As the chill of December fills the air and the festive season begins, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread to warm up...

That's Christmas: A Guide to Choosing New and Different Cheeses for ...

That's Christmas: A Guide to Choosing New and Different Cheeses for ...: As the festive season approaches, it's time to start planning that all-important Christmas cheeseboard. While the classics like mature C...

That's Christmas: A Typical Nigerian Christmas: A Celebration of Cul...

That's Christmas: A Typical Nigerian Christmas: A Celebration of Cul...: As part of an occasional series about Christmas celebrations around the world, That's Christmas  is publishing a blogpost about Christma...

Ethical Hydration Brand 'One Water' Wins at 2024 Frontier Awards

The award was for an annual sales initiative that One Water runs every year with World Duty Free. For every bottle of One Water sold, a donation is made to The One Foundation, funding clean water projects all around the world.

Top-sellers in stores 'win' a place on a trip to visit some of One Water's clean water projects in Malawi. One Water Founder Duncan Goose visited 14 high footfall branches of World Duty Free's stores this year across UK airports and at Eurotunnel Folkestone, covering a distance of 2,000 miles on his Honda Africa Twin Motorcycle. Duncan's 'lightbulb moment' to set up One was on a round-the-world trip he made in 1998 on the same bike: an encounter with Hurricane Mitch in Honduras inspired a new career in global development.

The decade-long relationship between One Water and World Duty Free - based on a shared vision of a world in which everyone has access to clean water - has meant that the travel retailer thus far has contributed £2.7 million to projects around the world.

Funds from The One Foundation achieved via World Duty Free sales have been donated to rehabilitate water points and to bring water access back into communities and have particularly impacted work in Malawi's rural communities, where farmers are working to grow sufficient crops to feed themselves and their families. 

Donations have also funded the provision of gravity-fed and solar pumping systems, meaning that clean water is now readily available in schools and health clinics. Catastrophic cyclones have impacted areas of Malawi over the last three years, washing away houses and crops, and contaminating water points, so the funds that continue to be raised are vital, to help communities recover and regenerate.

To date, The One Foundation has raised over £30 million through partners such as World Duty Free, Bidfood, Co-Op, and Starbucks.

Entries for the Frontier Awards were received from around the world, showcasing the very best of the industry. A panel of independent, expert judges pored over the entries to choose this year's finalists and eventual winners, which celebrated the best of innovation and excellence in the travel retail sector.

Says Duncan Goose, Founder of One Water: “It was such an honour to be invited to Cannes for the 40th anniversary of the Frontier Awards. To be nominated alongside many famous and iconic global brands was recognition enough, but to actually win the award was unexpected and very humbling. 

"It recognises the exceptional work of all those at Avolta and World Duty Free who believe in what we are trying to do to help those that live without access to clean water and my hope is that this award will bring attention not only to the team of people who make this all possible within Avolta, but the wider issue itself. It's an incredible honour to be part of this journey that has already changed 5 million people's lives.

"Water is vital for life, yet 703 million people globally still don't have access to safe drinking water and over 1.7 billion people lack access to a decent toilet. 3.4 million people die every year from waterborne diseases and sadly many are children under the age of 5 years old. Around the world, women and children often bear the responsibility of collecting water for their families and can walk up to 4 hours a day just to find water.

"We want World Duty Free's fantastic staff to see for themselves what their hard work has contributed to. We thank them for their continued support, it means everything to us and the beneficiaries who they are supporting in sub-Saharan Africa. We hope the upcoming trip will inspire them. Their help has been life-changing for millions. We estimate that there are still 65,000 handpumps in Malawi that are in dire need of repair and World Duty Free are integral to facilitating change, one day at a time.”

https://onewater.org.uk

By total chance One Water asked us to share their story with you. Their email arrived just after I posted up a story about water infusion, a different, but related topic.

The Pros and Cons of Mineral-Infused Waters

Mineral-infused waters have become increasingly popular in recent years, touted for their health benefits and refreshing taste. Whether it's naturally sourced or enriched with additional minerals, these beverages claim to offer more than just hydration. 

But are they worth the hype? Below, we'll explore the pros and cons of mineral-infused waters to help you decide if they're the right choice for your lifestyle.

The Pros of Mineral-Infused Waters

Enhanced Hydration While plain water is always beneficial, mineral-infused waters can potentially provide better hydration, especially for athletes or individuals engaged in strenuous activities. The added electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and sodium help maintain fluid balance, preventing dehydration and supporting muscle function.

Added Nutrients Mineral-infused waters contain essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are vital for various bodily functions. For those who don't get enough of these nutrients through their diet, drinking mineral-infused water could provide a convenient boost.

Improved Taste For those who find regular water bland, mineral-infused waters can offer a more enjoyable flavour without added sugars or artificial ingredients. This could encourage people to drink more water, improving overall hydration.

Natural Sourcing Some mineral-infused waters come from natural springs, boasting a unique mineral profile. These naturally occurring minerals may have been in the earth for centuries, lending an air of purity and sustainability to the product.

Digestive Health Certain minerals found in infused waters, such as magnesium, have been linked to improved digestion and bowel regularity. Drinking these waters could support overall gut health and even reduce bloating.

The Cons of Mineral-Infused Waters

Cost Mineral-infused waters are often significantly more expensive than tap water or regular bottled water. For those on a budget, the price can be hard to justify, especially when tap water in many regions is already safe to drink and provides sufficient hydration.

Not a Substitute for a Balanced Diet While mineral-infused waters can supplement your intake of certain nutrients, they shouldn’t replace a healthy, balanced diet. The amounts of minerals they provide are generally quite small and won’t meet your daily nutritional needs on their own.

Potential Overconsumption While minerals like calcium and magnesium are essential for health, it's possible to consume too much. If you’re already taking supplements or eating a mineral-rich diet, drinking mineral-infused water might lead to excessive intake, which can cause issues like kidney stones or digestive problems.

Environmental Impact Many mineral-infused waters come in single-use plastic bottles, contributing to environmental pollution. While some brands offer eco-friendly packaging or encourage recycling, the environmental cost of packaging and transporting bottled water can still be significant.

Added Sodium Some mineral waters contain higher levels of sodium, which may not be suitable for those with high blood pressure or other cardiovascular conditions. Always check the label to ensure the sodium content fits with your dietary needs.

Mineral-infused waters can be a great addition to your hydration routine, especially if you’re looking for added electrolytes, improved flavour, or a natural source of minerals. However, they do come with some downsides, particularly when it comes to cost and potential overconsumption of certain minerals. As with most things, moderation is key. While mineral-infused waters can offer certain health benefits, they should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and sustainable lifestyle.

Ultimately, the choice to drink mineral-infused water comes down to personal preference, dietary needs, and lifestyle considerations. Whether you're an athlete in need of replenishing electrolytes or simply someone looking for a tastier way to stay hydrated, it's worth weighing the pros and cons before making it a regular part of your routine.

A Refreshing Trend: The Rise of Low and No Alcohol Beverages in the UK

Over the past few years, a significant shift has occurred in the UK’s drinking culture. 

Gone are the days when choosing not to drink alcohol meant limited options of sugary soft drinks or bland non-alcoholic beers. 

The market for low and no-alcohol wines, beers, and ciders has exploded, offering a range of flavourful, sophisticated, and refreshing alternatives for those who want to cut back on alcohol without compromising on taste or the social experience.

Why the Surge in Low and No Alcohol Drinks?

Several factors have contributed to the increasing demand for alcohol-free and low-alcohol beverages. Changing lifestyles, growing awareness of health and wellness, and the global push towards mindful drinking have all played their part. Many people, from millennials to older generations, are seeking out healthier choices, reducing their alcohol consumption in favour of drinks that are lighter in calories but still deliver a full-flavoured experience.

The rise of initiatives like Dry January and Sober October have also contributed to this movement. These campaigns encourage temporary abstinence from alcohol, promoting a more balanced approach to drinking. At the same time, the quality of low and no-alcohol alternatives has vastly improved, making it easier for people to enjoy a great drink without feeling like they are missing out.

The Evolution of Non-Alcoholic Wines

Traditionally, non-alcoholic wines had a bad reputation for being overly sweet or lacking the depth and complexity of their alcoholic counterparts. However, new production methods, including better dealcoholisation processes, have significantly enhanced the flavour profiles of alcohol-free wines, bringing them closer to the real thing.

One standout brand in this category is Eisberg, which produces a range of alcohol-free wines including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Rosé. Their wines offer an authentic experience, boasting the full-bodied character and refreshing crispness you'd expect from a good glass of wine, minus the alcohol.

Another player in this space is McGuigan Zero, an Australian brand that has expanded into the UK market. Known for its Chardonnay and Shiraz varieties, McGuigan Zero's alcohol-free offerings are crafted to retain the richness and fruitiness of traditional wines, making them a fantastic option for those seeking a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.

Beer Goes Low or No Alcohol – and it’s Delicious!

The no-alcohol beer market has experienced a similar revolution. Craft breweries and large brands alike have been refining their recipes, using advanced brewing techniques to produce low and no-alcohol beers that taste just as satisfying as their boozy counterparts.

Leading the charge is BrewDog, a Scottish brewery known for its innovation. Their Punk AF (Alcohol Free) has won many fans, offering a hoppy and fruity pale ale experience without the alcohol. BrewDog has expanded its alcohol-free range with options like Nanny State, a malty, slightly bitter brew, perfect for those who still crave the richness of traditional ales.

Another noteworthy brand is Heineken 0.0, which has taken the UK market by storm with its smooth, refreshing taste that mirrors the original Heineken, but without the alcohol. With its easy availability in pubs and supermarkets, it's now a go-to for those looking to enjoy a beer without the effects of alcohol.

Guinness 0.0 is a very tasty alcohol free stout which tastes very similar to its older alcoholic cousin. Available in many supermarkets, off licences and some pubs including the Wetherspoon chain.

For those who love lager, Beck’s Blue continues to be a strong contender, maintaining its crisp, clean flavour, making it a familiar choice for anyone seeking a zero-alcohol option.

Ciders: Fruity and Fresh, Minus the Booze

Cider lovers are also well catered for in the low and no-alcohol category. Traditionally a high-alcohol drink due to its fermentation process, cider now offers an exciting array of lighter options that don’t skimp on the refreshing, fruity taste that has made it so popular.

Kopparberg has been a trailblazer in this area, with alcohol-free versions of its famous fruity ciders, such as the Alcohol-Free Mixed Fruit and Alcohol-Free Strawberry & Lime. These drinks still pack in all the juicy, vibrant flavours that Kopparberg is known for, making them a great choice for summer gatherings or casual sipping.

Another cider brand worth mentioning is Old Mout, whose Alcohol-Free Berries & Cherries cider is a delightful mix of sweet and tangy berries, perfect for those who enjoy a fruit-forward cider without the alcohol.

The Future is Low and No Alcohol

As demand for low and no-alcohol beverages continues to rise, we can expect to see even more innovation in this space. Whether it's for health reasons, a desire to cut back, or simply to enjoy a great-tasting drink without the effects of alcohol, UK consumers are increasingly spoilt for choice. With brands like Eisberg, BrewDog, Heineken, and Kopparberg leading the way, the days of feeling left out when choosing alcohol-free drinks are well and truly over.

Cheers to a future filled with more flavourful, inclusive, and refreshing options for everyone!