JING™ Awarded EcoVadis Gold For Their Sustainable Practices

As we near Earth Day on 22nd April, JING™ is delighted to share that, at the end of 2024, it was awarded EcoVadis Gold for its sustainable practices. 

This award places JING™ in the top 3% of companies rated by EcoVadis in similar industries and top 5% of companies globally.

Said Melanie Tricklebank, CEO of JING™: “We're thrilled to have been awarded an EcoVadis Gold. This highly prized award measures our sustainability achievements and recognises the hard work and passion shown by our tea gardens to produce in the right way and by our employees, who always put ESG at the heart of our decision making.” 

Melanie went on to say: ”JING™ travels the world to responsibly source the highest quality single garden teas directly from tea origins across Asia. 

"Our mission is to change how people think about tea. Our pioneering sourcing model, through direct relationships with inspiring tea producers, enables us to pay producers a fair price and support farming techniques that promote biodiversity. It has also introduced us to an intriguing world of special, distinctive teas.”

Melanie adds: “We want to thank our incredible customers, the leaders in hospitality who have supported us on our mission to change how we all think about tea, helping to ensure a sustainable and fair future for the tea industry, whilst delighting guests with exceptional tea experiences.”

EcoVadis is the world's leading sustainability ratings provider, offering independent and transparent evaluations of companies' sustainability practices to accelerate their sustainability journey. Their ratings cover key themes such as environment, labour rights, human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement. By working with EcoVadis, businesses are able to monitor and improve their sustainability performance journey.

JING™'s focus on quality, sustainability and service together with over 20 years' experience in world-leading hospitality has made it the tea of choice for many of the world's greatest tastemakers, chefs and hoteliers and is proudly served in many Michelin star restaurants. 

The teas are complemented by a full service approach from teaware to a world class training program tailored to individual trade partners to enable them to create the perfect guest experience. 

Ole and Steen Celebrates Easter

Beloved Danish bakery Ole & Steen is celebrating Easter with the launch of its much-anticipated limited-edition seasonal treats.

This year, Ole & Steen is putting an indulgent twist on its most iconic pastry with the Easter Special Cinnamon Social.

The signature favourite features the bakery’s soft, sweet, and buttery cinnamon dough, but this edition is topped with moreish chocolate mini eggs for the ultimate Easter indulgence.

The iconic pastry is designed to bring joy, comfort, and a little extra hygge (Danish for relaxation) to every bite.

The Easter Social is available exclusively from April 1st- 21st in all Ole & Steen stores and is offered in three sizes - by the slice £4.65, half £12.45 and a whole Social costing £20.95.

For those looking for another festive treat, Ole & Steen is also bringing back a fan favourite from its very first Easter collection, the Easter Chick Whip. This delightful creation features a marzipan base topped with passionfruit-filled marshmallow, covered in white chocolate and yellow coconut shavings (£4.45).

And of course, Easter wouldn’t be complete without Hot Cross Buns. Ole & Steen’s takes them to the next level with their version of the seasonal classic featuring a soft, spiced bun filled with candied peel and raisins (£2.45 each, or a pack of four to take home for £8.50).

An Ole & Steen spokesperson said: “Easter is a time for togetherness, indulgence, and of course, great food. This year, we’ve reimagined our beloved Cinnamon Social with a festive twist, alongside the return of our much-loved Easter Chick Whip and classic Hot Cross Buns. Whether you’re gathering with friends and family or enjoying a quiet moment of hygge, our Easter collection is designed to bring a little extra joy to the season.”

Renowned for its dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and tradition, Ole & Steen has become a go-to destination for authentic Scandinavian baked goods. With a passion for seasonal flavours, the bakery regularly introduces limited-edition specials, and the Easter Social is the latest creation designed to bring an extra touch of indulgence to the celebrations.

Founded in Denmark in 1991, Ole & Steen brings decades of baking expertise to every loaf, pastry, and cake. Now with over 25 locations across London, as well as bakeries in Copenhagen and New York, the brand continues to grow while remaining true to its roots of exceptional baking and Scandinavian hospitality.

For more details on Ole & Steen’s app, latest menu offerings, and promotions, visit oleandsteen.co.uk/app.

Celebrate Spring & National Rosé Day With Sandford Orchards' Devon Rosé Cider & Katja Rosé

Whether you're looking to celebrate the arrival of spring or raising a toast on National Rosé Day on 8th June, award-winning Sandford Orchards has two perfectly pink options to quench your thirst for authentic cider.

Devon Rosé Cider (ABV 3.4%, 500ml bottles RRP £2.50 from www.sandfordorchards.co.uk) 

Devon Rosé is an elegantly clean and vibrantly fresh rosé cider, bursting with the fruitiness of Pinot Noir red wine grapes. 

It's a delicious, medium sweet cider made from Browns, Katja and Jane apple varieties which are fermented with grape skins to give the cider a fabulous depth of flavour and a beautiful natural blush colouring. 

Its relatively low alcohol content means it's a light and refreshing, summery drink, perfect for lunchtime tipples, picnics and BBQs.

Katja Rosé (ABV 8%, 750ml bottles RRP £11.00  from www.sandfordorchards.co.uk) 

Katja Rosé is a sumptuous sparkling skin-contact rosé cider, produced using the Martinotti method. Lovingly crafted in Devon from locally grown Katja dessert apples, the juice is fermented with Rondo grapes from a nearby vineyard.

This bestows wine notes and an unmistakable rosé finish. It is a fresh and fruity cider which tastes of sun ripened cherries and peaches, with hints of apple blossom and candyfloss, balanced with tannins from the wineskins. It is the perfect all-British alternative to a pink bubbly.

Cornish Firebrand Brewing Co. Launches New Father's Day Gift Box

Looking for an interesting and different Father's Day gift this year? Firebrand Brewing Co. has just launched a brand new Father's Day Gift Box packed with its summer favourites plus a branded glass to ensure Dad enjoys his beers in style.

Father's Day Gift Box (£29.00 from www.firebrandbrewing.co.uk, includes free shipping)

This fantastic gift box contains 4 cans of Summerleaze Hazy Pale, 4 cans of Helles Beach Cornish Lager and a Firebrand Brewing Co.branded ⅔rds pint mencia-style glass. Summerleaze Hazy Pale is a beer embodying the vibrant spirit of summer. 

It's brewed using a pale malt base, hopped with a copious blend of Citra and Nectaron for an explosion of fruity flavour with waves of peach and citrus. 

Helles Beach Cornish Lager is biscuity and floral with a hint of spice. It's made using Cascade hops to give a subtle citrus flavour for a super satisfying finish.

Firebrand Brewing Co was forged back in 2012 in a converted milking parlour on the untamed edge of Bodmin Moor, North Cornwall. 

The idea was born from a passion for beer made using only all-natural ingredients, Cornish spring water and American hops. 

Now based in a new, purpose-built brewery in Launceston, still using only the finest ingredients and a dedication to quality, their mission is to 'Go Beyond The Usual', encouraging drinkers to explore new flavours and discover something different with every sip.

For further information on Firebrand Brewing Co. please visit www.firebrandbrewing.co.uk or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. 

Meet the Experts: Branding, Marketing and PR Event for Food and Drink Businesses at the Food WorksSW

One-of-a-kind food and drink innovation centre, The Food WorksSW is prepared to host a totally free 'Meet the Experts: Branding, Marketing and PR' event on Thursday 22nd May at its Weston-super-Mare location. 

It's open to all UK-based food and drink businesses and will run from 10.30am - 1.30pm.

Designed for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the food and drink sector, the expert-led event will focus on how to cut through and get brands noticed in a crowded market, and how to protect a brand's intellectual property. 

Attendees will gain valuable insights from industry specialists Mark Girvan, Creative Partner at Buddy Creative, Photographer and Video Content Creator Becky Craven, RAW PR's Co-Director Hayley Reynolds and Account Manager Harry Hook. 

Thatchers Cider Company made headline news in a recent high profile trade mark infringement case win against supermarket giant Aldi. Thomas Chartres-Moore, Head of Intellectual Property and Data Protection at Stephens Scown LLP and lead partner advising Thatchers in the case, will be sharing his knowledge of standing up to copycat cheaper products that hop on the coattails of the innovation and investment food and drink producers have put into their products.

Attendees will have the valuable chance to network with like-minded businesses on arrival as well as an optional tour of the centre's facilities afterwards. To book your place, visit www.foodworks-sw.co.uk. 

As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting food and drink businesses, The Food WorksSW will continue to offer a mix of webinars and in-person events throughout 2025. Businesses can sign up for their newsletter to be one of the first to know about their events. 

Created by North Somerset Council and operated by the Future Food Partnership CIC, a not-for-private-profit Community Interest Company, The Food WorksSW provides start-ups, established companies and hospitality businesses with the experience and equipment they require to grow and innovate. Located in Weston-super-Mare, less than 30 minutes from Bristol, the centre is the only one in the entire South West. 

The Food WorksSW features five development kitchens with dedicated specialist equipment, 12 food grade business units, in-house technical experts, a business lounge and coffee shop (open to all businesses), meeting room and conference facilities and hosts multiple industry training and seminar events throughout the year.

The development kitchens are available for flexible short-term contract hire for food and drink businesses of all sizes, along with the meeting room and conference facilities. 

Technical support packages are also available at the centre and are designed to help businesses navigate their way through a range of food disciplines – from new product development and quality assurance hygiene to food safety and efficiency.

The centre has also recently announced its first ever partnership opportunity that will give businesses the chance to support the team, provide advice and guidance to both existing and emerging food and drink brands, and become an integral part of the country's food, drink and hospitality scene.  To find out more about its partnership opportunities, visit www.foodworks-sw.co.uk/workingwithus.

For more information on The Food WorksSW visit foodworks-sw.co.uk, or follow @foodworks_sw on Instagram, Facebook and X. 

Voyager Coffee Launches Mocha Easter Egg and Coffee Gift for Easter

Perfect for all coffee lovers and chocolate lovers alike, this indulgent egg is rich and smooth, perfectly balanced with subtle coffee notes that enhance the chocolate's deep, natural sweetness. 

To make the Mocha Chocolate 40% Easter Egg, Barbers first source cocoa beans from the Peruvian Amazon, before pairing them with Peruvian coffee beans, sourced by Voyager. 

Voyager roasts the coffee beans to highlight their natural chocolate notes, adding depth and character to Barbers' mocha chocolate.

Voyager's Road Trip blend is a fruity, full-bodied coffee with berry acidity, dark chocolate and a caramel finish. A unique blend of three exceptional South & Central American coffees with the core Brazilian component from the award-winning Daterra Estate, renowned for their pioneering sustainable farming.

Voyager Coffee hand roasts sustainably sourced coffee from around the world in small batches, on the edge of beautiful, wild Dartmoor. To find out more, visit www.voyagercoffee.co.uk.

Barbers Bean to Bar is about good food that is good for the planet, minimising waste by using different processes to make their range of chocolate bars, cocoa teas and hot chocolates. Barbers let the cocoa speak for itself, low roasting the cocoa beans to keep all the natural flavours. To find out more, visit www.barberscocoa.co.uk. 

Research Shows Over-45s Drive Protein Boom

Scotland's top dairy brand, Graham's Family Dairy, has seen a record rise in shoppers prioritising protein, especially those of us who are over 45, as the trend moves beyond athletes and gym-goers. 

New research from Kantar (The Powerful Potential of Protein, 2025) confirms this shift, revealing 1 in 5 UK households (21%) now actively seek high-protein products. 

While younger consumers led the charge, the biggest growth is now coming from Generation X (44-59 age group) and Baby Boomers (60+), who are increasingly choosing protein-rich foods to support their health and wellbeing. 

With demand showing no signs of slowing, Graham's Family Dairy continues to see older consumers driving this protein boom firsthand, reflecting a fundamental change in shopping habits. 

Explains Robert Graham, Managing Director at Graham's Family Dairy:  "For some time we've been developing natural, high-protein dairy products, but it's exciting to see demand growing well beyond younger shoppers. Our range was designed to offer naturally nutritious options for all lifestyles, and it's fantastic to see more people embracing the benefits of real dairy. 

“There's a common misconception that protein is just for fitness enthusiasts, but in reality, it's a vital part of every diet. This shift in awareness presents a huge opportunity for natural dairy to support longer, healthier lives. What sets us apart is our commitment to real, wholesome ingredients, our dairy products deliver high-quality protein naturally, without additives or ultra-processing." 

Kantar's findings reveal high-protein dairy products including yogurts, drinks – which have seen a 23% increase in uptake - and desserts continue to expand their share in the grocery sector. While younger consumers were early adopters, the most significant growth potential now lies with older age groups, who are increasingly aware of protein's benefits for maintaining strength, energy, and overall health.  

The recent research also shows  76% of shoppers are willing to pay higher prices for products containing higher proportions of protein.  

Graham's Family Dairy became the Official Protein Dairy Partner of Loughborough Sport, at the start of this year, collaborating with nutrition lead Andrew Shepherd to fuel the university's athletes with natural high-protein dairy products. 

Andrew Shepherd, Nutrition Lead at Loughborough University said: "As we get older, our bodies naturally change and from the age of 30 we begin to lose muscle mass, strength, and function - a condition known as sarcopenia. Without proper nutrition, particularly protein, this process can speed up, increasing the risk of frailty, reduced mobility and chronic illness. 

“The good news is the message is getting across and that more and more adults over 45 are now recognising the importance of protein in maintaining their strength and overall health.  

“Research shows boosting protein intake can significantly slow muscle loss, especially when paired with resistance exercise. Though anyone with kidney concerns should seek medical advice before increasing their intake, those over 45 can feel a real difference by aiming for 1.2 to 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight each day.” 

The family-run business was founded in 1939 by Robert Graham in Bridge of Allan, Stirlingshire, where he reared 12 cows, milked them by hand, then made all deliveries by horse and cart.

https://www.grahamsfamilydairy.com

Why Hygiene Is Non-Negotiable in Food and Drink Premises

In any setting where food and drink are prepared, served, or consumed, hygiene isn't just important—it's absolutely vital.

From bustling restaurants to quiet cafés, mobile food vans to five-star hotels, maintaining impeccable hygiene standards is not a luxury or an afterthought; it’s a legal requirement and a cornerstone of customer trust and safety.

Protecting Public Health

At the heart of food hygiene is the protection of public health. Poor hygiene can lead to food contamination, which may cause foodborne illnesses such as salmonella, E. coli, or norovirus. These illnesses can range from unpleasant to life-threatening, especially for vulnerable individuals like the elderly, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems.

Every person who walks into a food or drink establishment puts their trust in the hands of those preparing their meals. This trust is built on the assumption that the premises are clean, the staff are trained, and the food is safe to consume. Breaching that trust through poor hygiene is not just careless—it’s dangerous.

Legal and Financial Consequences

In the UK, food hygiene is governed by strict regulations, including the Food Safety Act 1990 and regulations enforced by the Food Standards Agency (FSA). Failing to comply can result in hefty fines, closure of the business, or even prosecution.

Beyond the legal implications, there's the damage to a business’s reputation. In the age of online reviews and social media, news of a hygiene lapse can spread like wildfire. One bad report can cost a business its loyal customers, not to mention deter potential new ones.

Building Customer Confidence

Cleanliness is visible. A spotless kitchen, tidy serving area, and well-maintained restrooms speak volumes about a business’s standards and values. Customers notice when things are clean and well-run, and this creates confidence in the overall quality of the food and service.

High hygiene standards can even become a selling point. Many diners now check Food Hygiene Ratings before deciding where to eat. A 5-star rating isn’t just a badge of honour—it’s a powerful marketing tool.

Staff Well-being and Efficiency

It’s not just customers who benefit. A hygienic working environment protects staff, reduces the risk of illness, and improves morale. It also promotes efficiency, as organised, clean spaces are easier to work in and manage. Training staff on hygiene best practices ensures everyone understands their role in maintaining a safe and healthy space.

Conclusion

Hygiene is not optional in food and drink premises. It is a fundamental aspect of delivering a safe, reputable, and successful service. Whether you're serving coffee or crafting gourmet meals, cleanliness and care must be at the core of your operations. Because when it comes to food, there is no room for compromise.

Food Supplements and Other Supplements That May Help with Shingles: Natural Support for a Painful Condition

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. 

While it can affect anyone who has had chickenpox, shingles is more common in older adults and those with weakened immune systems.

Alongside antiviral medications prescribed by healthcare professionals, some people look to supplements for additional support. 

Though no supplement can cure shingles, certain vitamins and natural remedies may help strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and ease discomfort. Here’s a look at some of the most promising options.

1. Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is vital for nerve health, and a deficiency can worsen nerve-related pain. Some studies suggest that B12—especially in the form of methylcobalamin—may help relieve the nerve pain associated with shingles and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a common complication where pain lingers after the rash clears.

Suggested form: Methylcobalamin lozenges 

Note: Always consult your GP before high-dose supplementation.

2. L-Lysine

L-Lysine is an amino acid that may help inhibit the replication of herpes viruses, including the one that causes shingles. It's thought to work best when taken at the earliest signs of an outbreak.

Suggested dosage: 1,000–3,000 mg daily (short-term use)

Caution: Long-term use can lead to amino acid imbalances—consult your healthcare provider.

3. Vitamin C

A powerful antioxidant, vitamin C supports immune function and helps combat viral infections. Some evidence suggests that high doses may shorten the duration of shingles and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Suggested dosage: 1,000–2,000 mg daily

Tip: Liposomal or buffered vitamin C may be gentler on the stomach.

4. Zinc

Zinc plays a crucial role in immune response. Low levels are associated with poor wound healing and increased susceptibility to infections. Supplementing with zinc during a shingles outbreak may help your body recover more quickly.

Suggested dosage: 20–40 mg daily for a short period

Note: Excessive zinc can interfere with copper absorption.

5. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

This calming herb has antiviral properties and can be applied topically or taken as a tea. Lemon balm creams may help soothe the rash and promote healing when used early.

How to use: Apply lemon balm cream to affected areas 2–3 times daily

Alternative: Drink lemon balm tea to support relaxation and immune health

6. Magnesium

Shingles can cause nerve pain that lingers long after the rash disappears. Magnesium supports nerve function and may ease nerve-related discomfort and muscle tension.

Suggested dosage: 200–400 mg daily (magnesium glycinate or citrate forms are well-absorbed)

Bonus: May also help improve sleep during an outbreak.

7. Probiotics

Stress and antiviral medication can disrupt the gut microbiome. A healthy gut supports immunity, and probiotics may help rebalance your digestive system during and after a shingles episode.

Suggested strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum

A Word of Caution

Before starting any new supplement—especially if you're taking prescription medications or have underlying health conditions—consult your GP or a qualified nutritionist. Supplements can interact with drugs or be inappropriate for certain individuals.

Final Thoughts

Shingles can be a distressing and painful experience, but supporting your body with the right nutrition and supplements may help ease symptoms and promote recovery. Pair these natural aids with plenty of rest, hydration, and a gentle skincare routine to support your healing journey.

Join the EvOILution With Borderfields

As the food oil debate shows no signs of abating, we asked Nick Grogan, Head of Commercial for Borderfields to explain why rapeseed has cemented its place as one of the most significant crops in British agriculture, ranking as the third largest crop grown in the UK, behind wheat and barley.

“In a market heavily dominated by Olive Oil and ever fancier alternatives, you could be forgiven for not knowing what Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil is, where it comes from or how it's farmed, as well as its importance to UK agriculture. The vibrant yellow fields we see each year play a pivotal role in supporting Britain's farming sector and the wider food industry, as well as offering much needed food security to the UK.”

Beyond its culinary uses, rapeseed offers other benefits to the UK. It's a purely domestically grown and produced product which reduces the UK's reliance on imported oils, and in turn supports our food security. It contributes to crop rotation systems and improving soil health. Additionally, rapeseed flowers are a vital source of nectar for bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity and ecosystems across the countryside.

Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil undergoes no refining or processing whatsoever. The seeds are harvested, crushed when cold, and the oil is left to flow out where it is captured and then filtered. 

The filtering is left on a cycle until all the seed and shell material has been removed, leaving behind a beautifully smooth, delicious golden oil that has retained 100% of its natural goodness. Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil is naturally high in Omega 3, also contains Omegas 6 and 9, and is also a natural source of Vitamin E. It contains half the saturated fat of Olive oil, and ten times more Omega 3.

By choosing Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil, UK consumers and businesses can reduce reliance on expensive imports, cutting down on transport related emissions and support their local economy. As sustainability becomes an increasingly important consideration for both consumers and businesses alike, the role of domestically produced oils like Cold Pressed Rapeseed is likely to grow even further.

Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil has gained increased popularity in kitchens across the UK, celebrated for its versatility, smooth flavour and for boasting the highest smoke point amongst other competing oils. It's smoke point of between 230-260 degrees Celsius makes it ideal for frying, roasting and baking. 

"Because Cold Pressed Rapeseed isn't refined or processed, it's suitable for both hot and cold cooking applications. As well as being able to fry, roast and bake with it, it's also perfect as a dipping oil, or for drizzling over a salad or pasta dish.”

Time for an oil change - www.borderfields.co.uk

We would like to thank Borderfield and Nick Grogan for assisting us in writing this post.