Celebrating International Men’s Day with Style: Food, Drink, and a Touch of Festivity

International Men’s Day (19th November) is a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the men in our lives and reflect on the contributions and positive impact they make in our families, workplaces, and communities.

It’s also a day to unwind, indulge, and enjoy the company of good friends and family. 

If you’re planning to make this day memorable, here’s how you can do so with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an impromptu party.

1. Start with their Favourite Food

They say the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach, and International Men’s Day is no exception. Whether it’s a classic steak dinner, hearty fish and chips, a spicy curry, or even a lovingly prepared homemade pizza, start with their favourite dish.

If you’re unsure of their top choice, opt for a menu that’s simple yet crowd-pleasing:

Starters: Crispy chicken wings, garlic bread, or nachos with all the trimmings.

Main Course: A BBQ spread with grilled meats, veggie skewers, and a selection of fresh salads.

Desserts: Sticky toffee pudding, a rich chocolate mousse, or a cheese board for those who prefer savoury treats.

For those who enjoy cooking, this could be the perfect chance to bond in the kitchen while creating a masterpiece together.

2. Pair It with Their Drink of Choice

Drinks are an essential part of any celebration. Whether they’re fans of craft beer, a fine whisky, a classic G&T, or even a non-alcoholic mocktail, tailor the drinks to their preferences.

For the whisky enthusiast, consider hosting a mini tasting session featuring drams from different regions—perhaps a smooth Speyside, a smoky Islay, or an adventurous English whisky if you’re feeling patriotic.

For beer lovers, stock up on a selection of ales, lagers, or stouts from local breweries to add a touch of variety. Alternatively, a signature cocktail, such as an Old Fashioned or Espresso Martini, can elevate the evening.

3. Make It an Impromptu Party

Turn the day into a celebration by organising a small gathering of close friends and family. You don’t need to go overboard—sometimes the best parties are the most spontaneous.

Here’s how to keep it casual but festive:

Decorations: A few string lights, candles, or balloons can transform any space into a party-ready venue.

Music: Create a playlist of their favourite tunes or go for a mix of feel-good classics and current hits.

Games: Bring out board games, a deck of cards, or even a trivia quiz to keep everyone entertained.

Themed Activities: If they’re into sports, organise a mini competition or set up the telly for a sports watch party. If they’re more laid-back, a cosy film night with snacks could be perfect.

4. Take a Moment to Reflect

Amidst the food, drinks, and fun, take a moment to acknowledge the significance of International Men’s Day. Share a toast, exchange a few words of appreciation, or write a heartfelt note expressing what makes them special.

5. Wrap It Up with a Memorable Gesture

End the evening on a high note by giving them a small, thoughtful gift. It doesn’t have to be extravagant—a book they’ve been wanting, a bottle of their favourite drink, or even a framed photo of a cherished memory can be deeply meaningful.

International Men’s Day is a chance to show gratitude, foster connections, and create lasting memories. So, grab their favourite food, pour their preferred drink, and let the good times roll. Here’s to celebrating the remarkable men who make life all the richer!

Happy International Men’s Day!

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Why We Britons Must Stand with Our Family Farmers

The rolling hills, patchwork fields, and vibrant market towns that define the British countryside are more than just a picturesque backdrop—they are the beating heart of our nation. 

Family farmers, who have tilled this land for generations, are the custodians of this heritage. Yet today, they face unprecedented challenges that threaten not only their livelihoods but also our food security, rural communities, and cultural identity.

Now more than ever, it is imperative that we, as a nation, stand shoulder to shoulder with our family farmers. Here’s why.

1. Food Security in an Uncertain World

The COVID-19 pandemic and global supply chain crises have exposed the fragility of our reliance on imported goods. With over 40% of the food we consume in the UK imported, the need to bolster local food production has never been clearer. Family farmers provide fresh, nutritious, and seasonal produce that doesn’t have to travel thousands of miles to reach our plates. Supporting them ensures a resilient food system, capable of weathering global shocks and reducing our dependence on imports.

2. Protecting Our Countryside

Family farmers are stewards of the land, managing over 70% of the UK’s countryside. They maintain hedgerows, conserve wildlife habitats, and use sustainable practices to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of our rural landscapes. 

Without their efforts, these spaces risk being abandoned, degraded, or replaced by industrial farming methods that prioritise profit over environmental health.

3. Preserving Rural Communities

Farming is the backbone of many rural communities, providing jobs, supporting local businesses, and fostering a sense of identity. When family farms disappear, villages lose not only their economic foundation but also their social fabric. Supporting our farmers means investing in vibrant, thriving rural areas where traditions endure, and families can flourish.

4. Defending Ethical Food Production

British family farmers are among the most ethical and environmentally conscious in the world. They adhere to strict animal welfare standards, use fewer pesticides, and are committed to reducing carbon emissions. 

Supporting them means rejecting imported goods produced under lower standards that exploit workers, animals, and the environment. By choosing local, we send a clear message: ethics matter.

5. Standing Against Unfair Competition

Family farmers face mounting pressures from cheap imports, supermarket monopolies, and government policies that often prioritise trade deals over local agriculture. These pressures force many small farmers to sell up, unable to compete. It’s our duty as consumers to demand fair prices and trade policies that protect British farmers from being undercut by foreign competition.

What Can You Do?

Standing with family farmers doesn’t require grand gestures; small, everyday actions make a difference.

Shop locally: Buy from farmers’ markets, farm shops, or online platforms that directly support British farmers.

Choose British produce: Look for the Red Tractor logo or other certifications that guarantee local origin and high standards.

Support policy change: Advocate for agricultural policies that prioritise sustainable farming and protect family farmers.

Educate yourself: Learn about the challenges farmers face and share their stories with others.

The Future of Farming is in Our Hands

Family farmers are not just food producers—they are the guardians of our culture, our environment, and our communities. Without them, the British countryside as we know it will wither. By standing with our family farmers, we ensure a future where the land continues to provide, inspire, and thrive.

The time to act is now. Let’s not just talk about supporting local; let’s make it a priority. Because when we stand with our farmers, we stand for Britain.

Sandford Orchards Launches Breakthrough Cider Maker Awards 2025

Sandford Orchards has just launched the 2025 Breakthrough Cider Maker Awards which offer aspiring cider makers the chance to win an invaluable package of advice, guidance and guaranteed listings in the on and off trade. 

These unique awards, which are now in their fourth year, are free to enter, open to cider makers who are producing between 3,000 and 50,000 litres of cider or perry per year. 

The awards are aimed at supporting the future of cider in the UK. The closing date is 31st January 2025,so cider makers? Get your applications in ASAP!

Says Barny Butterfield, who is the Chief Cidermaker at Sandford Orchards and founder of the awards: ”When we launched the inaugural Breakthrough Cider Maker Awards at the end of 2019, we had no idea they'd prove to be such a massive success. 

"I launched the awards because I wanted to give something back to the industry that I love and I wanted to ensure fledgling cider makers, who share my passion for real cider, were given the opportunity to thrive."

He went on to say: "Business is undoubtedly tough and it can be really daunting trying to get started. We're obviously keen to support emerging cider makers in order to secure the future of quality cider enjoyment for generations to come and the response since the launch in 2019 has been incredibly encouraging. There's really a hugely talented pool of new cider makers in the UK and we are looking forward to meeting more of them as part of the 2025 awards process.”

The Breakthrough Cider Maker Award entrants will be judged by industry experts including Tom Oliver, Gabe Cook and Mary Topp and the winner will receive a prize package that includes a £500 Vigo voucher, a listing at their local Stable Pizza, a listing at The London Cider House, a Sandford Orchards collaboration limited edition cider and a visit by Sandford Orchards' cider makers to offer practical help and advice about set up. 

The two runners up will both receive a £200 voucher from Bag In Box Shop UK and all three winners will receive a 12 month listing at Darts Farm, Devon and a 12 month listing on www.sandfordorchards.co.uk. Plus, everyone who enters will receive personalised, practical and actionable feedback and advice.

Andy Jenkins (pictured) from Ganley and Naish, the most recent winners of the award comments: “Winning the award proved to myself that I can make cider, and more importantly produce cider to a good standard. As silly as it might sound to some, having peer approval has been hugely validating. Being in the company of amazing previous winners and runners up, is an exclusive club that I'm going to cherish forever.”

Gabe Cook, The Ciderologist and awards' judge adds: “It's a genuine pleasure and a real joy to be part of these utterly unique and crucial Breakthrough Cider Awards. 

"To give small cider makers not only a platform to shine, but to have real financial and technical support is fabulous. Bravo to Sandford Orchards for, not for the first time, thinking about the big picture and giving something back to the cider community.”

The Breakthrough Cider Maker Awards were launched by Sandford Orchards at the end of 2019 and aim to recognise and celebrate excellent quality whole juice ciders from all over the UK. 

A spokesman for Sandford Orchards said: We'd like to thank Vigo, The Bag In Box Shop, The Stable and The London Cider House for their support and prize donations.

For further information on the Sandford Orchards Breakthrough Cider Maker Awards please visit www.sandfordorchards.co.uk/cider-awards or follow Sandford Orchards on Twitter, Facebook and  Instagram.

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Introducing Bonne Maman Petits Muffins

Specialist French brand Bonne Maman is introducing two delicious new treats to its cakes & biscuits range with its Petits Muffins.

You can Choose from flavourful, aromatic Petits Muffins Vanille, containing genuine natural vanilla from Madagascar, or Petit Muffins Chocolat – made with 14% chocolate to deliver a rich and satisfying chocolatey experience. 

Each tempting little muffin is a soft, fluffy and tasty morsel, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. 

With 17 moreish little muffins per bag, they are perfect for sharing with friends at home and also provide a great little after school or college snack.

Containing no artificial colours or flavours, the Petits Muffins are available now in 235g bags of 17 at Tesco Stores, Waitrose & Partners plus online at Ocado at RRP £2.50.

A Call to Manufacturers: Ensuring Packaging Accessibility for People with Arthritis and Other Conditions

Image courtesy Clker-Free-Vector-Images Pixabay

The genesis of this blogpost? I was opening a ridiculously wide jar of drinking chocolate when my arthritic thumb went into spasm and I then had to spend the best part of an hour cleaning up chocolate powder in the middle of the night in our kitchen. 

And I thought "Why don't they design jars and bottles for people with arthritis?" And then I thought: "I'll write a blogpost about this!"

 

For millions of people, the act of opening a food jar, a supplement bottle, or even a blister pack of medicine is something done without a second thought. 

But for those living with arthritis, joint pain, reduced grip strength, or other physical conditions, this simple task can be a frustrating, painful, and even impossible challenge.

It’s high time that manufacturers in the food, supplement, and pharmaceutical industries make accessibility a priority when designing their packaging.

The Everyday Struggle of Difficult Packaging

Imagine needing to take your medication but being unable to access it because the packaging is too stiff or fiddly. For individuals with arthritis, limited mobility, or neurological conditions, this isn't just an inconvenience—it's a real barrier to maintaining their health and independence. 

According to the Arthritis Foundation, millions of people in the UK alone live with arthritis or related conditions that affect their hands and joints, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks like twisting off a jar lid or pushing a tablet out of a blister pack.

It's not just arthritis sufferers who struggle with packaging. Older adults, those with disabilities, or even people recovering from injuries can also find modern packaging designs nearly impossible to handle. The issue isn't limited to medication either—food items, dietary supplements, and everyday household products are often packaged in a way that assumes everyone has the same level of physical ability. The reality is that we live in a world where one-size-fits-all solutions simply don’t work.

Why Accessible Packaging Matters

The consequences of inaccessible packaging can go beyond mere inconvenience:

Health Risks: If people cannot open their medication packaging promptly, they may miss doses or take incorrect amounts, which could exacerbate their condition. In an emergency, inaccessible packaging could have serious consequences.

Nutritional Impact: Struggling to open jars, cans, or containers of food can discourage individuals from choosing nutritious options, pushing them towards easier but often less healthy alternatives.

Psychological Toll: Being unable to perform simple tasks like opening a bottle can have a negative impact on self-esteem and independence, especially for older adults who may already be feeling vulnerable.

What Needs to Change: A Call to Action for Manufacturers

It's time for manufacturers to put accessibility at the forefront of their packaging design. Here are some practical solutions that can make a world of difference:

Ergonomically Designed Lids and Caps: Replace hard-to-grip, twist-off lids with options that require less force to open. Consider implementing features like larger grips, flip-tops, or squeeze mechanisms that are easier for those with limited hand strength.

Easy-Open Seals: Many jars and containers have seals that require considerable force to break. Instead, manufacturers could use pull-tab designs that are easier to grasp and tear, similar to how some soup cans now include pull tabs instead of traditional can openers.

Blister Pack Innovations: Medicine blister packs often require significant force to push out a tablet. Including perforations or textured surfaces that aid grip, or creating pull-out pouches, could simplify this process.

Clear Labelling for Accessibility: Packaging should include clear instructions that are easy to read, with contrasting colours for those with vision impairments. Including tactile cues, such as raised symbols, can also help those with limited vision.

User Testing with Diverse Groups: Involving people with arthritis, reduced mobility, or other conditions in the testing phase can lead to designs that truly work for everyone. Collecting feedback from real users ensures that manufacturers understand the practical challenges faced by their consumers.

The Business Case for Inclusive Packaging

While it’s clear that accessibility is an ethical imperative, it’s also a smart business move. The population is ageing, and people are living longer with chronic conditions. By 2030, nearly a quarter of the UK’s population will be over 65, with many experiencing conditions like arthritis. Brands that prioritise accessible packaging can tap into this significant market, enhancing their reputation and loyalty among older adults, caregivers, and those with disabilities.

Additionally, inclusive packaging design is not just good for individuals with specific conditions—it benefits everyone. Who hasn’t struggled to open a stubborn jar or bottle at some point? When packaging is easier to open, it’s a win for consumers of all ages and abilities.

Conclusion: Making Accessibility the New Norm

The ability to open a jar of food, access a vitamin supplement, or take necessary medication should not be a privilege reserved for those with full physical strength. It’s time for manufacturers to recognise the diverse needs of their consumers and design packaging that is truly accessible.

By making these changes, companies can demonstrate a genuine commitment to inclusivity, enhance customer satisfaction, and ultimately make their products more appealing to a broader market. Let’s call on manufacturers to put people first and design packaging that empowers everyone to live independently and healthily. The future should be one where no one is left struggling with packaging that puts barriers between them and their wellbeing.

Now is the time for manufacturers to step up—because accessibility is not just an option; it’s a responsibility.