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Wednesday, 16 April 2025

Celebrating National Tea Day: A Brew-tiful British Tradition

Every 21st April, the UK lifts its teacups high in honour of National Tea Day—a celebration of our nation’s most beloved beverage. 

Whether you’re a fan of a classic builder’s brew, a refined Earl Grey, or a trendy matcha latte, National Tea Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in a comforting cuppa (or five).

A Nation of Tea Lovers

Let’s face it: tea is practically part of our DNA in the UK. With roots tracing back to the 17th century and a history steeped (pun absolutely intended) in culture and ritual, tea isn’t just a drink—it’s a way of life. 

From the elegant traditions of afternoon tea to the humble “put the kettle on” during a crisis, tea plays a central role in British identity.

How to Celebrate National Tea Day

Whether you’re a tea connoisseur or just here for the biscuits, there are plenty of ways to mark the occasion:

1. Host a Tea Party

Dust off the teapot, grab your favourite mugs, and invite some friends over for a proper tea party. Think scones with jam and clotted cream, finger sandwiches, and a good variety of brews. Add a few vintage cups or floral napkins for extra charm.

2. Try a New Brew

Always reach for English Breakfast? Branch out! National Tea Day is the perfect time to experiment. Try a fragrant chai, a soothing chamomile, or a refreshing green tea. You might discover a new favourite.

3. Visit a Local Tearoom

Support your local businesses by enjoying a proper cream tea at a nearby café or tearoom. Many places offer special menus or events on 21st April, so it’s worth checking what’s on in your area.

4. Learn the History of Tea

Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating journey of tea—from ancient China to British parlours. The story of how tea became a staple in the UK is full of intrigue, trade, and transformation.

5. Share Your #NationalTeaDay Moments

Snap a picture of your perfect brew, a fancy teacup, or your tea-themed celebration and share it on social media using #NationalTeaDay. It’s a fun way to connect with fellow tea lovers across the country.

Celebrate with UK Tea Brands

Why not go local and support British tea producers? Here are a few to pop in your basket:

Yorkshire Tea – A household staple known for its strong, no-nonsense brew.

Twinings – One of the oldest tea brands in the world, offering everything from Earl Grey to herbal infusions.

Pukka Herbs – Great for organic and wellness-inspired blends.

Brew Tea Co – A modern Manchester-based brand focused on proper loose leaf tea.

Bird & Blend Tea Co. – Creative, small-batch blends like "Moondrop Dreams" and "Eton Mess."

Tregothnan – The first tea to be grown in England, from the lush estate in Cornwall.

Coming Up in Our Tea Series

This post is just the beginning! We’re diving deeper into the wonderful world of tea with a full series to sip your way through:

Britain’s Best Regional Tearooms – Discover hidden gems and iconic spots from Cornwall to the Highlands.

Tea and Mental Wellbeing – Exploring how a warm cup of tea can support mindfulness, stress relief, and everyday calm.

Tea Pairing Guides – From sweet treats to savoury bites, we’ll help you match your tea to the perfect nibble.

Make sure to follow along—there’s a lot more brewing!

Celebrate Chinese Language Day by Bringing Chinese Flavours into Your Kitchen

Every year on April 20th, the world marks Chinese Language Day—a celebration of one of the oldest and richest languages still in use today. 

But beyond just admiring the beauty of Mandarin characters or listening to classical poetry, why not immerse yourself in Chinese culture through one of its most beloved elements: food?

Whether you’re fluent in Mandarin or can only say nǐ hǎo, you can still join in the celebration by exploring Chinese cuisine at home. 

From savoury stir-fries to delicate desserts, cooking Chinese dishes offers a hands-on way to honour the culture and history behind the language.

Why Food is a Delicious Gateway to Language and Culture

In Chinese culture, food is so much more than sustenance—it’s a symbol of family, tradition, celebration, and storytelling. Many Chinese phrases and idioms even incorporate food, like “吃苦” (chī kǔ), which literally means "eat bitterness" but refers to enduring hardship.

So, why not try “speaking” Chinese through your kitchen? It's a way to connect with the culture in a sensory, joyful, and creative way.

Easy Chinese-Inspired Dishes to Try at Home

You don’t need a wok or years of experience to whip up something tasty. Here are some beginner-friendly recipes to help you get started:

Starter: Scallion Pancakes (葱油饼 - Cōng Yóu Bǐng)

These flaky, savoury pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft inside. Made with just flour, hot water, oil, and spring onions, they’re surprisingly simple and deeply satisfying.

Main: Egg Fried Rice (蛋炒饭 - Dàn Chǎo Fàn)

A fantastic way to use up leftover rice, this staple dish can be customised with vegetables, prawns, or tofu. The key is cold rice, a hot pan, and a quick hand.

Main: Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐 - Má Pó Dòu Fǔ)

This classic from Sichuan is spicy, numbing, and packed with umami. Soft tofu is simmered in a sauce of fermented black beans, garlic, chilli, and Sichuan peppercorns. Serve it over steamed rice for a warming meal.

Bonus: Dumpling Night! (饺子 - Jiǎo Zi)

Making dumplings is a bit more involved, but it’s a brilliant group activity. Fillings can range from pork and cabbage to shiitake mushroom and tofu. Make a batch and freeze some for later!

Don't Forget Dessert!

Chinese desserts often differ from Western ones in that they're less sweet and use ingredients like glutinous rice, red bean paste, or fruits. Here are two to try:

Tangyuan (汤圆 - Tāng Yuán)

These chewy rice flour balls are typically filled with black sesame paste or red bean and served in a warm, lightly sweet ginger syrup. Symbolising unity and family, they’re often enjoyed during festivals but can be made anytime.

Almond Jelly (杏仁豆腐 - Xìng Rén Dòu Fu)

Light and fragrant, this chilled dessert is made with almond milk and gelatine or agar agar. Often served with tinned fruit, it’s a refreshing way to end your meal.

Make It a Full Cultural Experience

While cooking, you could listen to a Chinese playlist or watch a Chinese film with subtitles. Learn the names of ingredients in Mandarin and practise saying them. You could even decorate the table with red accents (a lucky colour in Chinese culture) to add to the atmosphere.

Resources to Get You Started

Books: Every Grain of Rice by Fuchsia Dunlop offers approachable and authentic Chinese home cooking.

Websites: The blog The Woks of Life (https://thewoksoflife.com) is packed with family recipes and step-by-step tutorials.

Language Learning: Try using an app like Duolingo or HelloChinese to learn a few food-related words as you cook.

Final Thoughts

Chinese Language Day is a brilliant reminder of the beauty, complexity, and history of the Chinese language—but it’s also a great excuse to explore Chinese culture in ways that engage your senses. Cooking Chinese meals at home is an enriching experience, whether you’re stirring a sizzling wok or biting into a sesame-stuffed dessert.

So grab your chopsticks, turn on some Mandarin music, and bring the flavours of China into your kitchen.

Happy Chinese Language Day! (中文日快乐! - Zhōngwén Rì Kuàilè!)

Celebrate World Heritage Day with Heritage Grains and Family Recipes

Every 18th April, World Heritage Day invites us to reflect on the cultural treasures that shape who we are—from ancient buildings and historical landmarks to culinary traditions passed down through generations. 

But one of the most personal ways to honour our heritage is through food—especially the kind made with care, memory, and stories.

This year, why not celebrate World Heritage Day by reviving old recipes from your family archive and experimenting with heritage grains that connect us to our ancestors' ways of eating? 

Whether it’s a rustic loaf, a time-honoured pudding, or a dish your grandmother made every Sunday, cooking with intention is a beautiful way to keep tradition alive.

What Are Heritage Grains?

Heritage grains are traditional varieties of cereals that were grown before industrial agriculture favoured high-yield, uniform crops. Think spelt, emmer, einkorn, khorasan (Kamut), and rye. These grains are often more nutritious, flavourful, and environmentally resilient than their modern counterparts.

Using them not only celebrates our food history but supports biodiversity and sustainable agriculture. Many small-scale UK farms and millers now specialise in heritage grains, so sourcing them locally is easier than ever.

Ideas to Get You Started

1. Dig Out a Family Recipe

Start with a handwritten recipe card, a well-worn cookbook, or even a story from an elder. Maybe it's your great-aunt's oat biscuits, a barley-stuffed roast, or a porridge that got you through winters as a child. You could even adapt a classic family recipe by substituting in heritage grains—like making pancakes with spelt flour or a pie crust with rye.

2. Bake with History

Bread is a wonderful way to explore heritage grains. Try a sourdough made with einkorn, a soda bread using wholemeal spelt, or a rye loaf that harks back to northern European roots. The flavours are richer and often nuttier than conventional wheat—and the satisfaction of baking something with centuries of history is hard to beat.

3. Cook a Heritage Feast

Make an event of it. Invite friends or family over for a meal where each dish has a story. Label them with the region or person they’re connected to, and serve with a side of storytelling. You might even discover someone else’s great-grandfather made the same dumplings yours did.

4. Document the Memories

Take time to write down those oral recipes or digitise that fading notebook. Share the story behind a dish on social media, or create a scrapbook to pass on to the next generation. These small actions help preserve not just the recipe but the people and places tied to it.

5. Visit a Local Heritage Site and Pack a Traditional Picnic

Pair your food celebration with a visit to a historic UK site—perhaps a castle, an abbey, or a local museum. Pack a picnic filled with heritage-inspired treats and eat surrounded by the echoes of the past.

Where to Find Heritage Grains in the UK

Gilchesters Organics (Northumberland) – specialises in stoneground flour made from heritage wheat and rye

Hodmedod's – offers British-grown spelt, emmer, and quinoa

Shipton Mill – known for diverse and sustainably grown flours

Local farm shops, health food stores, and farmers’ markets often carry small-batch options too.

Food is one of the most intimate expressions of culture and heritage. On World Heritage Day, honour your history not only by remembering it, but by tasting it, sharing it, and passing it on. Whether you’re kneading dough with ancient grains or simmering a stew that’s fed generations, you’re keeping tradition alive—and creating new memories in the process.

There Is No Shame in Using a Foodbank — And Here’s How You Can Pay It Forward Too

Times are tough for a lot of people right now. With the cost of living crisis, rising bills, and unexpected expenses around every corner, more and more people are turning to foodbanks for support. And let’s be absolutely clear about this: there is no shame in using a foodbank.

You're Not Alone — And You're Not Failing

The idea that asking for help is something to be embarrassed about is outdated and harmful. 

Everyone needs support sometimes. Using a foodbank doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means you’re doing what you need to do to take care of yourself or your family.

You wouldn’t think twice about using the NHS when you’re unwell. So why feel any different about using a foodbank when you need a bit of extra help putting meals on the table? These resources exist because no one should have to go hungry, ever.

Foodbanks Are for Everyone in Need — Including You

The reality is, many people who use foodbanks are working — sometimes full-time — but still struggling to make ends meet. It’s not about laziness or poor choices. It’s about a system that often doesn’t leave enough breathing room.

If you’ve had to choose between heating your home and feeding yourself, or if your wages aren’t stretching as far as they used to, you’re not alone. Foodbanks are there to fill that gap — no judgement, just support.

Dignity, Not Charity

Modern foodbanks are built around dignity. They aim to offer not just food, but kindness, a listening ear, and often signposting to additional help. It’s not just about giving out tins and pasta — it’s about lifting people up.

If you’re feeling anxious about going to a foodbank, remember this: the people running them care deeply. They understand. They’re there because they want to help, not to judge.

Paying It Forward — Even While You're Still Struggling

You might be thinking, “I hate taking without being able to give back.” That’s a completely human feeling — but let’s reframe it. There are ways to pay it forward, even if you’re still working through your own challenges:

Share your story, if you feel comfortable – speaking openly (even anonymously) helps remove the stigma and shows others they’re not alone.

Offer your time – when you’re in a better place, consider volunteering. Foodbanks always need hands and hearts.

Donate later – if you can't give now, maybe in the future you’ll be in a position to pop a couple of items in a donation bin or support a fundraiser.

Support others emotionally – a kind word online or in your community to someone who’s struggling can make a world of difference.

A Community That Lifts Each Other Up

Foodbanks aren’t about charity. They’re about community. They’re about not letting anyone fall through the cracks. And one day, if and when you're in a position to give back, you’ll do it with understanding and compassion — because you’ve been there, and you know.

So if times are tight, take the help. That’s what it’s there for. You don’t need to explain, apologise or feel bad. There’s no shame — just people helping people. And that’s something truly powerful.

How can you find out about foodbanks that can help you or who you could help in the future? Here's a list:-

United Kingdom

1. The Trussell Trust

The largest foodbank network in the UK, operating over 1,300 centres. They provide emergency food parcels and support services.

Find a Trussell Trust foodbank near you​

foodaidnetwork.org.uk

2. Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN)

A network of over 550 independent foodbanks across the UK, offering a range of food aid services.

aidnetwork.org.uk

3. The Salvation Army

Operates foodbanks and provides food parcels through many of its churches and community centres.

https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/foodbanks

4. FareShare

Distributes surplus food to charities and community groups, including foodbanks and community kitchens.

Learn more about FareShare's food support​

https://fareshare.org.uk/getting-food/food-service-for-individuals/

5. Local Council Services

Many local councils provide information on foodbanks and food support services in their areas.

Ireland (Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland)

1. FoodCloud (Community FoodLink)

Connects businesses with surplus food to charities and community groups, including foodbanks.

Explore FoodCloud's Community FoodLink​

https://food.cloud/community-foodlink

2. Crosscare

Based in Dublin, Crosscare operates foodbanks and distributes food to various charities across Ireland.

Learn more about Crosscare​

https://www.centreforglobaleducation.com/food-bank-ireland

3. Simon Communities of Ireland

Provides support to individuals experiencing homelessness, including food services.

🔗 Find services through Simon Communities​

https://www.simon.ie/our-network-of-communities/

4. Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP)

Offers a range of support services, including food assistance, across Ireland.

Access SVP's services​

https://www.svp.ie/

Men Struggle Too. Recognising and Treating Anorexia in Males: What You Need to Know

When we think of eating disorders, particularly anorexia, the image that comes to mind is often female. But anorexia nervosa affects people of all genders—including men. 

In fact, research suggests that around one in four individuals with anorexia are male. Despite this, anorexia in males is frequently underdiagnosed, underreported, and misunderstood.

Here’s what you need to know about identifying and treating anorexia in males—whether for yourself, someone you love, or within your professional sphere.

What Is Anorexia?

Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental health condition characterised by:

Restrictive eating and extreme calorie control

An intense fear of gaining weight

A distorted body image

In men, these signs can be accompanied by other symptoms that may look different to the typical female presentation—making it more difficult to spot.

Signs and Symptoms of Anorexia in Males

While core symptoms are similar across genders, the way they manifest in men can vary. Here are some key indicators to watch out for:

Physical signs:

Noticeable weight loss or failure to maintain a healthy weight

Fatigue, dizziness, and frequent illness due to a weakened immune system

Digestive issues, constipation, or stomach pain

Muscle loss and low testosterone levels

Cold intolerance (always feeling cold)

Behavioural signs:

Obsessive focus on food, calories, or “clean eating”

Excessive exercise, often prioritised over other commitments

Avoidance of meals, social situations involving food, or making excuses not to eat

Extreme self-control or rigidity around eating routines

Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or depression

Psychological signs:

Distorted perception of body image—may see themselves as overweight even when underweight

Low self-esteem and intense fear of weight gain

Denial of the seriousness of low body weight

Men may also experience muscle dysmorphia, a form of body dysmorphia where individuals perceive themselves as insufficiently muscular rather than thin—leading to over-exercise, restrictive dieting, or misuse of supplements.

Why Anorexia in Males Often Goes Undiagnosed

Stigma: Eating disorders are still viewed as "female problems," which can make it harder for men to seek help or even recognise their symptoms.

Different presentation: Symptoms like excessive gym use or “clean eating” may be culturally normalised or even praised in men.

Misdiagnosis: Males may be misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety without the underlying eating disorder being addressed.

How to Get Help

If you or someone you know may be struggling with anorexia, early intervention is crucial. Recovery is possible, and the sooner treatment begins, the better the outcomes.

Steps to take:

Speak to a GP: They can provide an initial assessment and referrals to eating disorder specialists.

Seek a specialist: Treatment often involves a multidisciplinary team including a therapist, dietitian, and medical doctor.

Therapy options:

CBT-E (Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is a leading approach for adults with anorexia.

Family-Based Therapy (FBT) can be effective for adolescents and young adults.

Support networks: Encouragement and understanding from family, friends, or peer support groups can make a big difference.

Supporting a Male with Anorexia

Listen without judgement: Be present and non-critical.

Avoid body or food-related comments, even if well-meaning.

Educate yourself: Understanding anorexia helps reduce stigma and improve your ability to help.

Encourage professional help, but avoid forcing it—recovery must be a personal choice.

Anorexia in males is real, serious, and often hidden behind stereotypes. But with awareness, support, and professional treatment, recovery is not only possible—it’s entirely achievable. The key lies in recognising the signs early and challenging the stigma that prevents so many men from reaching out.

If you're worried about someone (or yourself), don’t wait. Speak up. Help is out there—and it starts with a conversation.

Recognising and Treating Anorexia in Males: What You Need to Know

Anorexia nervosa is often misunderstood as a condition that only affects women. But in the UK, around 25% of people with anorexia are male, and that number may be higher due to underdiagnosis and stigma. Eating disorders don’t discriminate—they affect people of all genders, backgrounds, and body types.

Here’s how to spot the signs of anorexia in men and what treatment options are available, with UK-based resources to help.

Updated UK Stats and Facts

According to Beat, the UK’s leading eating disorder charity, approximately 1.25 million people in the UK have an eating disorder.

Of these, around 25% are male, although many experts believe this is an underestimate.

Men are less likely to seek help due to stigma, lack of awareness, and misdiagnosis.

Where to Get Help in the UK

If you suspect you or someone else may be struggling with anorexia, these UK-based services and organisations can help:

1. Beat Eating Disorders

Website: www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk

Offers helplines, online support groups, and guidance for those struggling and their families.

2. NHS Eating Disorder Services

Start with your GP, who can refer you to an eating disorder specialist team.

In England, services are available via CAMHS (for children) or adult mental health services.

3. Men Get Eating Disorders Too

Website: www.mengetedstoo.co.uk

A charity specifically supporting men affected by eating disorders, offering peer support and resources.

4. Mind

Website: www.mind.org.uk

While not eating disorder-specific, Mind offers mental health support and guidance on accessing services.

Sunday, 13 April 2025

Managing Adult ADHD: Therapies, Treatments, and Supplements That Can Help

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) isn’t just a childhood condition — many adults experience its challenges daily, often without even knowing why focus, organisation, and motivation can be so difficult. 

Whether you've been formally diagnosed or recognise symptoms that align with ADHD or similar neurodivergent traits, there are a range of strategies that may help. 

This post explores both conventional and complementary approaches, from medical treatments to natural supplements and therapeutic techniques.

1. Medical Treatments

For many adults, medical treatment can be an essential part of managing ADHD.

Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin, Concerta) or amphetamine-based options (e.g., Elvanse, previously known as Vyvanse) are commonly prescribed. These improve dopamine and norepinephrine activity in the brain, which are often underactive in people with ADHD.

Non-stimulant medications, like atomoxetine (Strattera), guanfacine or bupropion, may be preferred for those with side effects from stimulants or co-existing conditions like anxiety or high blood pressure.

Medication should always be overseen by a healthcare professional, with regular reviews to ensure the best results and minimal side effects.

2. Therapies and Coaching

Therapeutic support can be especially helpful when combined with medication — or on its own.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Tailored CBT for ADHD focuses on restructuring unhelpful thought patterns and developing practical strategies for time management, organisation, and emotional regulation.

ADHD Coaching: Professional ADHD coaches work one-on-one with clients to help them build routines, improve focus, and set achievable goals.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): Practising mindfulness can improve attention, reduce impulsivity, and help regulate emotional responses.

Occupational Therapy: Useful for those who need support structuring their environment or adapting work/life tasks to suit their cognitive style.

3. Lifestyle Changes That Support Focus and Mental Clarity

Sometimes, the most impactful changes are the simplest.

Routine and Structure: Keeping a consistent sleep schedule, using planners or visual schedules, and setting reminders can significantly reduce mental clutter.

Exercise: Regular movement, especially aerobic activity, has been shown to boost executive functioning and reduce symptoms of inattention.

Diet: Balanced blood sugar and consistent protein intake throughout the day can help manage focus and energy levels. Consider reducing sugar and highly processed foods that may exacerbate symptoms.

4. Vitamins and Supplements

While supplements aren’t a cure, they may offer support — particularly when dietary intake is insufficient. Always check with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, especially if you’re on medication.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA): Found in fish oil, omega-3s support brain health and have been associated with reduced ADHD symptoms in some studies.

Magnesium: May help with restlessness, irritability, and sleep, especially in those who are deficient.

Zinc: Plays a role in neurotransmitter function and may support dopamine regulation.

Iron (especially Ferritin levels): Low iron stores have been linked to increased ADHD symptoms — supplementation should only be considered with a blood test and medical advice.

Vitamin D: Essential for mood regulation and immune function; deficiency is common in the UK, especially during winter.

L-Tyrosine: An amino acid that supports dopamine production — some people find it helps with mental clarity and motivation.

5. Alternative and Emerging Therapies

Neurofeedback: A non-invasive therapy where individuals learn to regulate brainwave activity. Though research is ongoing, some report improved attention and emotional regulation.

Light therapy: Especially useful for those who also struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or disrupted sleep cycles.

Herbal supplements: Options like Rhodiola rosea, Ginkgo biloba, and Panax ginseng have anecdotal support for improving mental energy and focus, but should be used with caution and professional input.

Final Thoughts

Managing ADHD and similar neurodivergent conditions is not about trying to "fix" who you are — it's about discovering what works best for your brain and building a life around your strengths. With the right combination of therapies, routines, and support (including the occasional supplement), it's absolutely possible to thrive.

Have you tried any of these approaches or found other strategies helpful? Share your experience in the comments — your insights might just help someone else on a similar journey.

Why You Should Seek Out Your Nearest Wildwood Kitchen

Image courtesy of Wildwood Kitchen
If you're looking for a casual, family-friendly dining experience that doesn’t compromise on flavour, atmosphere, or value, Wildwood Kitchen might just become your new go-to. 

With locations scattered across the UK, this charming restaurant chain combines modern Italian-inspired cuisine with rustic, relaxed interiors, creating the perfect spot for everything from weekday dinners to leisurely weekend lunches.

Here’s why Wildwood Kitchen deserves a spot on your foodie radar:

1. A Menu That Suits Everyone

Whether you’re a pasta devotee, a pizza purist, or someone who loves a juicy grilled chicken or fresh salad, Wildwood’s menu has something for everyone. Highlights include:

Wood-fired pizzas with generous toppings

Freshly made pastas like their creamy mushroom and truffle oil tagliatelle

Lighter options like their grilled halloumi salad or seabass with lentils

Comforting classics for kids and picky eaters alike

And yes — they cater for dietary needs too, with gluten-free and vegan options clearly marked.

2. Stylish Yet Laid-Back Vibe

Wildwood locations strike a lovely balance between cosy and contemporary. Think exposed brick walls, warm wood tones, and soft lighting — making it equally suitable for a casual lunch with friends or a relaxed date night. There's no pressure to dress up, but it still feels like more of a treat than your average chain restaurant.

3. Great Value for Quality

With regular offers, set menus, and a generous loyalty scheme, Wildwood offers brilliant value for money. Portions are satisfying, ingredients are fresh, and you’ll walk away feeling like you’ve had a proper meal — not just a fast food fix.

4. Perfect for Families

Parents, take note: Wildwood is a genuinely family-friendly option. Their kids’ menu includes crowd-pleasers like pasta Bolognese or margherita pizza, plus a dessert and drink — all at a reasonable price. Some locations even offer colouring sheets and crayons to keep little ones entertained.

5. Seasonal Specials & Cocktails

Wildwood keeps things interesting with seasonal specials, from autumn pumpkin risottos to summer strawberry Eton mess. Their drinks menu is also worth a look, with classic cocktails, mocktails, and a carefully selected wine list to match their Mediterranean-style dishes.

Final Thoughts

In a crowded dining scene full of flashy chains and hit-or-miss independents, Wildwood Kitchen hits that sweet spot: reliable, flavourful, relaxed, and welcoming. Whether you're catching up with friends, taking the family out, or just craving a comforting bowl of pasta in a nice setting — there’s every reason to give your nearest Wildwood a try.

https://wildwoodrestaurants.co.uk

Have a favourite dish at Wildwood? Let us know in the comments!

That's Christmas 365: No-Bake Easter Cakes: Easy, Delicious & Festive Tr...

That's Christmas 365: No-Bake Easter Cakes: Easy, Delicious & Festive Tr...: Spring is in the air, and Easter is just around the corner!  Whether you're short on time or simply avoiding the oven, no-bake Easter ca...

Saturday, 12 April 2025

Fearne & Rosie: Spreading Healthier Jam Across the UK​

In a market dominated by traditional high-sugar spreads, Fearne & Rosie stands out by offering a healthier alternative without compromising on taste. 

Founded in 2019 by former primary school teacher Rachel Kettlewell, the brand was inspired by her desire to provide better food options for her daughters, Fearne and Rosie. This family-centric motivation led to the creation of jams that are both delicious and nutritious.​

A Healthier Take on Tradition

Fearne & Rosie jams are crafted with approximately 70% fruit content, significantly higher than many conventional jams. They contain 40% less sugar than standard offerings, making them a suitable choice for health-conscious consumers. The jams are made using all-natural ingredients, free from concentrates, palm oil, and artificial additives, and are compliant with the UK's HFSS (High Fat, Sugar, and Salt) regulations .​

Popular Flavours

The brand offers a variety of flavours to cater to different palates:​

Strawberry Jam: A classic favourite, made with high fruit content.​

Raspberry Jam: Tangy and sweet, perfect for breakfast spreads.​

Blackcurrant Jam: Rich in flavour, ideal for baking.​

Superberry Jam: A blend of strawberries, blackcurrants, blueberries, and raspberries, offering a burst of berry goodness .​

Commitment to Community and Sustainability

Beyond producing delicious, healthier jams, Fearne & Rosie is dedicated to making a positive impact. The company is a certified B Corporation, reflecting its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. 

They actively support initiatives like BBC Children in Need and FareShare, and are involved in educational programmes aimed at promoting healthier eating habits among families .​

Availability

Fearne & Rosie products are available in several UK retailers, including Asda, Co-op, Waitrose, and Morrisons in Yorkshire. They have also expanded their reach through online platforms and have initiated export deals, bringing their jams to international markets like Dubai .​

For those seeking a delicious yet healthier alternative to traditional jams, Fearne & Rosie offers a range of options that don't compromise on flavour. Their commitment to quality ingredients, community engagement, and sustainability makes them a noteworthy choice for the modern consumer.​

https://fearneandrosie.co.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/fearne_and_rosie/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/FearneandRosie/

Friday, 11 April 2025

Dry Brew Launches in the UK: A Game-Changing Coffee Chew Now Available at drybrew.co.uk

Dry Brew, the revolutionary water-free chewable coffee that's changing the way people consume caffeine, has officially launching in the UK. 

The US patented product has had an incredible success story in the States with consumers, hotel chains and airlines all becoming eager and satisfied customers. Dry Brew is now available at www.drybrew.co.uk — bringing a bold, convenient, and delicious caffeine kick to British consumers.

Dry Brew is not a coffee powder — it's a compact chew made with real coffee, designed for on-the-go lifestyles. Whether you're commuting, working out, or just need a quick pick-me-up, Dry Brew delivers the benefits of coffee without the cup.

Dry Brew is for people on the go; it's a quick and convenient way to get your caffeine hit. On a train, plane or car just keep a Dry Brew nearby for a delicious 'cup of coffee in a single bite.' No need for water, heat, or preparation, Dry Brew is perfect for gym bags, desk drawers, or travel kits.

“Not quite like anything I've tried before - a great alternative for an on the go or pre work out coffee! absolutely recommend” – facebook.com/drybrewuk review

- Made with real coffee

- Convenient, portable format

- No prep or clean-up required

- Vegan-friendly and gluten-free

- Available now at drybrew.co.uk

Dry Brew is now shipping UK-wide.

FACTFILE:

Dry Brew is a first-of-its-kind coffee chew designed for life on the go. With a focus on clean energy, convenience, and real coffee flavour, Dry Brew offers a modern solution for caffeine lovers who want more flexibility and less fuss.