How to Make a Luxurious Mug of Spiced Hot Chocolate

There’s something undeniably comforting about wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of hot chocolate.

But if you’re ready to take things up a notch, it’s time to explore the world of spiced hot chocolate. 

This isn't your average childhood cocoa. We’re talking about a rich, velvety drink with complex flavours, warming spices, and a touch of heat that lingers just long enough to make you smile.

Whether you're curled up on a chilly evening, planning a winter gathering, or simply indulging in a moment of self-care, this luxurious spiced hot chocolate will hit the spot.

What You’ll Need (Serves 2)

For the base:

500ml whole milk (or oat/almond milk for a dairy-free version)

100g dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped

1 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)

1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

Pinch of sea salt

For the spice:

¼ tsp ground cinnamon

⅛ tsp ground nutmeg

⅛ tsp ground cardamom

Pinch of cayenne pepper (or more if you like a real kick)

Optional: a tiny grating of fresh ginger or a dash of ground ginger

To finish:

Whipped cream or a dairy-free alternative

Grated chocolate, cinnamon stick, or a dusting of chilli powder for garnish

Method

Warm the milk:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until it’s steaming but not boiling.

Add chocolate and cocoa powder:

Reduce the heat to low. Add the chopped chocolate, cocoa powder, and sugar/maple syrup. Whisk continuously until the chocolate has melted completely and the mixture is smooth and thickened slightly.

Spice it up:

Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, cayenne, and salt. Continue whisking gently for another 1–2 minutes to allow the flavours to infuse. If you're using fresh ginger, add it here too. Taste and adjust — add more spice or sweetness if desired.

Serve in style:

Pour into mugs and top with a swirl of whipped cream. Garnish with grated chocolate, a cinnamon stick, or even a pinch of cayenne for a bold finish.

Tips for an Extra-Luxurious Experience

Use bar chocolate instead of chocolate chips — it melts more smoothly and gives a deeper flavour.

Infuse the milk with a dried chilli or star anise before adding the chocolate for an extra layer of warmth.

For grown-up gatherings, add a splash of dark rum, Kahlúa, or chilli-infused liqueur.

Make it vegan with oat milk and coconut whipped cream — the slight natural sweetness of oat milk pairs beautifully with the spices.

Why Spiced Hot Chocolate?

Spiced hot chocolate has its roots in ancient Mesoamerican traditions, where cacao was consumed with chilli and spices long before sugar ever entered the picture. It’s a blend of indulgence and heritage, comfort and fire — and the perfect way to elevate a familiar favourite into something unforgettable.

If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments how you like to spice up your hot chocolate — and don’t forget to tag us on Instagram with your creations!

Crempog — The Welsh Pancake Tradition

Crempog (or crempogau, plural) is one of the oldest known recipes in Wales, a beloved traditional pancake, thick and buttery, with a deep and satisfying flavour.

Served stacked high and dripping with butter or syrup, they are especially popular on Shrove Tuesday, birthdays, and festive gatherings in rural Wales.

These aren’t your average thin crêpes — crempogau are golden, fluffy, and slightly tangy from the buttermilk, often cooked on a hot bakestone or griddle (maen), just like Welsh cakes.

A Proud Pancake Legacy

Before the rise of modern baking powders, Welsh households relied on natural leavening from buttermilk and bicarbonate of soda.

This gave crempogau their distinctive texture — somewhere between a drop scone and a Scotch pancake.

They're often compared to American pancakes, but crempog are denser, more savoury, and ideal for layering with lashings of butter or preserves.

Regional Twists

South Wales (Carmarthenshire, Glamorgan)

Traditionally served in buttered stacks, kept warm in a low oven.

Often enriched with golden syrup or treacle.

North Wales (Gwynedd, Anglesey)

Adds a handful of currants or sultanas to the batter.

Some versions use soured cream or milk instead of buttermilk.

Modern Takes

Topped with clotted cream and jam.

Made savoury with chives and cheese.

Traditional Crempog Recipe

Ingredients:

300ml buttermilk

200g plain flour

1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

1 tsp cream of tartar

1 tbsp golden syrup

1 egg

Pinch of salt

25g melted butter (plus extra for frying and layering)

Method:

In a large bowl, mix the flour, bicarbonate of soda, cream of tartar, and salt.

Beat the egg into the buttermilk, then stir in the syrup.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and whisk until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.

Heat a little butter in a frying pan or griddle over medium heat.

Drop large spoonfuls of batter into the pan and cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook the other side until golden.

As you go, stack the crempogau with a dab of butter between each one. Keep warm in a low oven if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Traditional: stacked with butter and brown sugar.

Spread with jam, lemon curd, or a drizzle of Welsh honey.

For a savoury twist, top with a poached egg and a sprinkle of Caerphilly cheese.

Crempog: Warmth in Every Layer

Making crempog isn’t just about cooking — it’s about gathering.

Welsh grandmothers often made dozens at once, turning the kitchen into a haven of warmth and scent.

Whether you’re celebrating your roots or discovering them for the first time, crempog brings people together, one buttery bite at a time.

Coming next: Teisen Lap — The Traditional Welsh Traybake

How Poor Customer Service Can Destroy a Business

In today’s hyper-connected world, customer service is no longer a “nice-to-have” — it’s a business-critical function that can make or break a brand. 

Whether you're running a global corporation or a local start-up, your success hinges on how you treat your customers. 

And yet, countless businesses still underestimate the power of good service — or more accurately, the damage caused by bad service.

Word Travels Fast

In the age of online reviews and social media, one bad customer service experience can be broadcast to thousands within minutes. Platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and X (formerly Twitter) give customers a voice — and they’re not afraid to use it. A single tweet about being ignored, spoken to rudely, or passed around call centres can spiral into a PR nightmare. Unlike traditional word-of-mouth, online criticism has a longer lifespan and wider reach.

First Impressions Stick

A customer’s first interaction with your business often sets the tone for their entire relationship with your brand. A brusque receptionist, a long wait time, or a lack of response to a query can instantly plant seeds of doubt. Even if your product or service is excellent, poor service creates distrust. And once a customer decides you’re not worth their time, they’ll often take their business — and their loyalty — elsewhere.

Losing Repeat Business (and Revenue)

Acquiring a new customer is five to seven times more expensive than retaining an existing one. But poor customer service virtually guarantees that customers won’t return. Worse still, a disappointed customer won’t just leave — they’ll actively discourage others from engaging with your business. Every lost customer is a lost opportunity for recurring revenue and referrals.

Team Morale and Brand Reputation

Poor customer service doesn’t just affect external stakeholders. It can erode employee morale. Staff on the frontline, such as customer support agents or retail workers, bear the brunt of unhappy customers — often due to policies or systemic issues beyond their control. This leads to burnout, high staff turnover, and a toxic work culture — all of which feed back into the customer experience in a vicious cycle.

For example, "Oh, it's you again!" when a repeat customer visits a shop may be an appropriate joke with a friend, but not with a customer. 

Competitors Are Always Watching

In a competitive market, businesses offering top-tier customer service will quickly swoop in to win over your disgruntled customers. Many brands differentiate themselves solely on experience, not price or product. Think John Lewis, First Direct, or smaller independents who’ve built loyal followings because they treat every customer like they matter.

Fixing It: Invest in Service or Risk It All

Train your staff regularly, and empower them to solve problems rather than just follow scripts.

Gather feedback from customers — and act on it.

Make it easy for people to get in touch and resolve issues swiftly.

Celebrate great service as part of your brand culture.

Ultimately, customer service isn’t just a department — it’s the voice and personality of your business. If that voice is careless, indifferent, or hostile, you’re pushing customers away with every word.

Don’t let poor service be the reason your business fails. Because in today’s world, it might be the only reason someone never comes back.

Here Are Some Real-Life Examples of Customer Service Failures

1. United Airlines: "United Breaks Guitars"

In 2008, musician Dave Carroll's guitar was damaged by United Airlines baggage handlers. After receiving no compensation, he created the song "United Breaks Guitars," which went viral, amassing millions of views. The incident severely tarnished United's reputation and highlighted the power of social media in amplifying customer grievances.

2. British Airways: Ignoring a Customer's Plea

In 2013, after British Airways lost his father's luggage and failed to respond to his complaints, businessman Hasan Syed took to Twitter. He paid $1,000 to promote a tweet criticizing the airline's customer service. The tweet garnered significant attention, forcing British Airways to issue a public apology.

3. ScottishPower: A Cascade of Complaints

ScottishPower faced severe backlash due to its poor customer service. In 2015, Ofgem temporarily banned the company from acquiring new customers because of unresolved complaints and billing issues. By 2020, it was labeled as having the "worst customer service" by The Observer, following numerous incidents, including pursuing debts from individuals who weren't even customers.

4. Virgin Media: Britain's Worst Telecom Provider

In 2024, Virgin Media was voted Britain's worst telecoms provider by consumer group Which?. Customers cited frequent service failures, mid-contract price hikes, and poor customer support as primary concerns. The negative publicity significantly impacted the company's reputation.

5. Homejoy: Rapid Growth, Rapid Decline

Homejoy, a home-cleaning startup, expanded quickly after its inception in 2010. However, inconsistent service quality and poor customer retention led to its downfall by 2015. Customers frequently complained about unprofessional cleaners and subpar service, which, combined with legal challenges, led to the company's closure.

The Broader Impact of Poor Customer Service

Poor customer service doesn't just result in isolated incidents; it has far-reaching consequences:

Loss of Revenue: Businesses lose billions annually due to poor customer experiences.

Damaged Reputation: Negative reviews and viral complaints can deter potential customers.

Employee Morale: Frontline staff often bear the brunt of customer dissatisfaction, leading to decreased morale and higher turnover.

Operational Costs: Resolving complaints and managing PR crises can divert resources from core business activities.

Conclusion

These examples serve as cautionary tales for businesses across industries. In an era where customers have platforms to voice their experiences widely, prioritizing exceptional customer service isn't optional—it's essential. Investing in training, responsive support systems, and a customer-centric culture can safeguard your business against the pitfalls that befell the companies mentioned above.

Pros and Cons of Weight Loss Injections

Weight loss injections like Wegovy (semaglutide), Ozempic (semaglutide), and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have gained popularity in the UK for aiding weight management and treating type 2 diabetes. 

These medications function by mimicking hormones that regulate appetite and digestion, leading to reduced calorie intake and weight loss.

How Do Weight Loss Injections Work?

These drugs are primarily GLP-1 receptor agonists, which imitate the glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone. This hormone stimulates insulin secretion, suppresses appetite by signaling satiety to the brain, and slows gastric emptying, prolonging the feeling of fullness. 

Tirzepatide, found in Mounjaro, also targets GIP receptors, enhancing its appetite-suppressing effects .

Are They Safe?

Clinical trials have demonstrated that these injections can lead to significant weight loss—up to 20% of body weight in some cases—and may reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and complications from type 2 diabetes. But they aren't without risks.

Common side effects include nausea,vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation and heartburn.

Serious Risks include pancreatitis gallbladder disease, kidney problems, gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying) and animal studies indicated that thyroid tumours could be a risk.

Some users have reported mental health concerns, including depression and anxiety, though evidence on this is still emerging.

Are There Long-Term Side Effects?

Long-term data is still being collected, but some users have reported persistent side effects even after discontinuing the medication. These include ongoing gastrointestinal issues, hair loss and dizziness. The potential for long-term complications such as thyroid tumours and gallbladder disease necessitates careful monitoring.

Final Thoughts

Weight loss injections offer a promising option for individuals struggling with obesity and related health issues. However, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution and come with potential risks. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if these medications are appropriate for your situation and to ensure proper monitoring during treatment.

For further information on the benefits and risks of weight loss injections, you can refer to the British Heart Foundation's overview here https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/weight-loss-injections

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Welsh Honey Cake — Sweetness from the Valleys

Golden, moist, and fragrant, Welsh Honey Cake is a time-honoured treat that reflects the natural bounty of the land.

Honey has long been treasured in Welsh cooking — not only as a sweetener, but as a symbol of healing, hospitality, and rural abundance.

This simple yet elegant cake offers a warm, spiced sweetness that’s perfect with an afternoon cup of tea or served as a rustic dessert. It's a beautiful way to honour the landscape and traditions of the Welsh valleys.

A Slice of Nature

Wales is home to lush pastures, wildflowers, and thriving native bees. In regions like Monmouthshire, Carmarthenshire, and the Brecon Beacons, beekeeping has been practised for centuries.

Welsh honey is prized for its depth of flavour — ranging from light floral notes to dark, rich heather honey. This cake is a celebration of that tradition.

Regional Twists

South Wales (Valleys & Carmarthenshire)

Often includes mixed spice and a touch of orange zest.

Topped with a simple honey glaze.

North Wales (Conwy, Snowdonia)

Uses heather honey for a stronger, darker flavour.

May include ground almonds or a splash of whisky. Welsh whisky is best, obviously!

Contemporary Versions

Served with clotted cream or honeyed mascarpone.

Infused with lavender or lemon thyme for an intriguing floral note.

Traditional Welsh Honey Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

150g unsalted butter

150g Welsh honey (plus 2 tbsp extra for glazing)

75g light brown sugar

2 large eggs

200g self-raising flour

1 tsp mixed spice

Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Pinch of salt

Method:

Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) / 320°F / Gas Mark 3. Grease and line a 1lb loaf tin.

In a saucepan, melt the butter, honey, and sugar over low heat. Let it cool for 5 minutes.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the orange zest (if using).

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and mixed spice.

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until smooth.

Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.

While still warm, brush the top with the extra honey for a sticky, glossy finish.

Allow to cool before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect with a cup of Welsh breakfast tea.

Add a dollop of whipped cream or yoghurt for a dessert-style finish.

Keeps well and even improves after a day or two, making it great for gifting.

Welsh Honey Cake: Sweetness with Soul

Whether you're using wildflower honey from a local market or a treasured jar from a family beekeeper, this cake is a delicious way to connect with Welsh landscapes and heritage.

Simple, satisfying, and full of warmth — a true gem of the valleys.

Coming next: Crempog — The Welsh Pancake Tradition

Celebrate Father's Day With the Beefy Boys

The Beefy Boys have unveiled two mouthwatering new ways to turn up the heat this June for Father's Day. 

The award-winning burger champions from Hereford have announced the release of an Ultimate Father's Day DIY Burger Box, as well a Live Father's Day Burger School experience with co-founder Murf, at the Royal Three Counties Show on Sunday 15th June.

Fresh from their Times-bestselling book, From Backyard BBQ to World Class Burgers, The Beefy Boys have created the perfect gift for foodie dads who like to fire up the grill at home, with the release of their Ultimate Father's Day DIY Box.

Packed with everything that is needed to recreate The Beefy Boys' world-famous smashed patties at home, the limited edition Father's Day Box includes their famous 100% Herefordshire beef, Peter Cooks' Brioche Buns, spicy Hellboy Sauce, and signature burger seasonings.

Along with these ingredients, the box also includes a can of Wye Valley 1985 lager, an official Beefy Boys trucker cap, and a hand-picked playlist of banging beats to soundtrack and enhance your burger flipping experience. With detailed instructions and pro tips from the boys themselves, it's the ultimate way to boss the BBQ and earn legendary dad status this Father's Day

In addition to this, The Beefy Boys' co-founder and burger master, Anthony 'Murf' Murphy, will be hosting The Beefy Boys' Burger School, a parent-and-child cook along experience, live at the Royal Three Counties Show in Malvern on Father's Day itself (Sunday 15th June).

Running at 11:30am, 2:30pm, and 3:30pm, this hands-on cook-a-long invites parent-and-child duos to roll up their sleeves and learn how to smash their own iconic Beefy Boys burgers together in this fun and fiery session, under Murf's guidance. The session will feature expert tips, plenty of laughs, and a delicious goodie bag to take home for all participants. Nice!

Tickets for The Beefy Boys' Burger School are available as an add-on to general admission for the Royal Three Counties Show – the Midlands' flagship celebration of farming, food and countryside life - and must be booked in advance.

Whether you're staying in the comfort of your own back garden or heading out to sizzle with Murf this Father's Day, The Beefy Boys are serving up two epic ways to treat your dad, your mate, or yourself this Father's Day. Because nothing says 'I love you, dad', quite like a world-class burger.

The Beefy Boys' Ultimate Father's Day DIY Box costs £39.99 and can be purchased from https://thebeefyboys.com/product/fathers-day-diy-box/

Tickets to The Beefy Boys' Burger School at the Royal Three Counties Show cost £50 and admit two participants each. Tickets can be purchased from the Royal Three Counties Show website, and must be accompanied by a General Admission ticket for the show.

Adult tickets start at £24, and children up to the age of 15 can attend for free.

Choosing the Best Pet Foods: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

When it comes to looking after our beloved pets, we often go above and beyond to provide them with the best toys, the cosiest beds, and regular vet check-ups. 

But what about the food we put in their bowls every day? Just as we scrutinise ingredients and nutrition labels on our own food, and what we feed our children, we should be just as vigilant with what our pets eat. 

Sadly, far too many commercial pet foods are loaded with preservatives, cheap fillers, artificial colours, and other additives that could harm your pet's health over time.

In this post, we’ll guide you through how to choose high-quality food for your dogs, cats, parrots, and other common pets, because if you care about your own diet, it’s only right to care just as much about theirs.

Why Quality Pet Food Matters

Pets rely on us entirely for their wellbeing. The right food supports their immune system, digestion, energy levels, coat or feather condition, and even their mood. Poor-quality food, on the other hand, can lead to obesity, digestive problems, skin irritations, allergies, and long-term health issues.

Think of your pet’s food as you would your own weekly shop. Would you feel good eating fast food and nothing else? Probably not. And neither will your pet thrive on food full of unnamed meat by-products and chemical preservatives.

Common Red Flags in Pet Food

Here are a few ingredients and practices to watch out for when buying pet food:

Meat by-products or animal derivatives: These often include low-grade parts of animals not considered fit for human consumption.

Artificial preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin: These are controversial and have been linked to health concerns.

Artificial colours and flavours: Pets don’t care about the colour of their kibbles, and these additives serve no nutritional purpose.

Corn, wheat, and soy fillers: Cheap bulking agents that offer minimal nutritional value and can cause allergies in some pets.

Generic fat sources: Ingredients labelled as “animal fat” or “poultry fat” without specifying the source can be questionable.

Choosing the Best Food for Your Pet

Dogs

Look for named protein sources: Ingredients such as “chicken,” “beef,” or “salmon” should be listed first.

Avoid cheap kibbles: While seemingly economical, they often contain high levels of grain fillers and artificial additives. And can work out more expensive over time.

Consider fresh or raw options: Many UK-based companies now offer gently cooked or raw dog food subscriptions with human-grade ingredients.

Read the label: If you can’t pronounce half the ingredients, it’s worth reconsidering the product.

Cats

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a meat-based diet. Avoid foods that are grain-heavy or contain too many vegetable-based proteins. 

Moisture matters: Wet food is often better for hydration and urinary tract health.

Avoid “complete” foods with poor-quality meat meals and instead look for real meat and added taurine, an essential amino acid for cats. And also avoid so-called "vegan" cat foods. They are called obligate carnivores for a reason.

🦜 Parrots and Birds

Steer clear of seed-only diets: Many shop-bought seed mixes are fattening and lack essential nutrients.

Offer fresh vegetables, fruits, and formulated pellets: Choose pellets made without artificial colours or sweeteners.

Rotate fresh produce: Variety helps mimic natural diets and supports mental stimulation.

🐰 Small Mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs, etc.)

Hay is king: Unlimited access to high-quality hay is crucial for digestion and dental health.

Watch pellet ingredients: Choose ones with no added sugar or artificial dyes.

Avoid muesli-style mixes, which can encourage selective eating and lead to nutritional imbalances.

Tips for All Pet Owners

Do your research: Look into brands, read reviews, and check independent pet food rating websites.

Consult your vet or an animal nutritionist: They can help guide you based on your pet’s age, health conditions, and activity level.

Consider home-prepared meals (with care): If done correctly and with expert guidance, cooking for your pet can be an excellent way to ensure quality.

Rotate protein sources: Helps prevent sensitivities and provides variety.

Be mindful of recalls: Stay updated with UK pet food recall alerts.

Final Thoughts: If It Matters for You, It Matters for Them

Our pets are family. If we wouldn’t feed ourselves processed food every day, we shouldn’t expect our animals to thrive on it either. A little time spent reading labels, researching brands, and exploring healthier options can lead to happier, healthier lives for our furry and feathered friends.

Just as you’d want the best for your child, your pet deserves real, wholesome nutrition — not just something cheap and convenient in a shiny bag. After all, they trust us to make the right choices.

How World Day for Safety and Health at Work Can Improve Safety in Restaurants, Pubs and Eating Places

Every year on 28 April, World Day for Safety and Health at Work serves as a global reminder of the importance of creating safe and healthy workplaces. 

For the hospitality industry—especially restaurants, pubs, and cafés—this is an ideal time to take stock, improve practices, and foster a culture where both staff and customers feel protected.

While safety might not always be the most glamorous part of the service industry, it is absolutely essential. Kitchens, bars, and dining areas are full of potential hazards, from sharp knives and hot oil to slippery floors and heavy lifting. 

Here's how food and drink businesses can use this global awareness day to improve their standards and support their teams.

1. Review and Update Risk Assessments

Start by conducting a full review of your current health and safety policies. World Day for Safety and Health at Work is a great annual reminder to reassess:

Fire safety procedures

Slips, trips and falls

Food hygiene controls

Manual handling

Use of cleaning chemicals

Are risk assessments up to date? Have there been any changes to the layout, equipment, or staffing that require a reassessment? Use the day to double-check compliance with UK legislation, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Food Safety Act 1990.

2. Provide Refresher Training for Staff

Even experienced staff benefit from reminders. Organise short refresher training sessions on key topics:

Knife safety and equipment handling

Safe lifting techniques

Allergen awareness and food hygiene

Mental health and stress management

Make it engaging—consider quizzes, toolbox talks, or even role-playing scenarios. Training on World Day for Safety and Health at Work reinforces your commitment to your team’s wellbeing.

3. Involve Staff in Safety Discussions

Safety isn’t just a top-down directive. Frontline staff often spot issues that management might miss. Use the day to host a team safety meeting:

Ask for feedback on hazards

Invite ideas on improving workflows

Discuss near-miss incidents and how to prevent them

Create an anonymous suggestion box or survey if your team prefers to share concerns more privately. Employees are more likely to follow safety protocols if they feel heard and involved in the process.

4. Check Equipment and Maintenance

Is your equipment in good working order? Faulty or unmaintained tools are a leading cause of accidents in hospitality. On this day, set aside time to:

Inspect gas hobs, fryers, and ovens

Test fire extinguishers and alarms

Service extraction fans and refrigeration units

Review COSHH compliance for cleaning chemicals

A well-maintained kitchen is a safer, more efficient one—and it reduces long-term costs by preventing breakdowns.

5. Raise Awareness on Mental Health

The hospitality industry is fast-paced and often stressful. World Day for Safety and Health at Work is an opportunity to promote psychological safety as well as physical. Consider:

Sharing mental health resources (like those from Mind or Hospitality Action)

Promoting open conversations around stress and burnout

Offering quiet spaces or scheduled breaks to support staff wellbeing

The day can be a springboard for ongoing efforts to improve morale, reduce staff turnover, and build a stronger team.

6. Engage Customers in Your Commitment to Safety

Don’t keep your efforts behind the scenes. Share your commitment to safety with your customers:

Post your participation in World Day for Safety and Health at Work on social media

Highlight any improvements or staff training you’ve done

Display your food hygiene rating and safety policies

This transparency builds trust and reassures customers that your venue takes safety seriously.

Final Thoughts

World Day for Safety and Health at Work is more than a date on the calendar—it’s an opportunity to take proactive steps that make a real difference. Whether you run a cosy village pub, a bustling city restaurant, or a local café, investing time in health and safety benefits everyone: owners, staff, and guests alike.

By making safety a priority today, you’re building a stronger, more sustainable business for tomorrow.

Gemak Sets New Standards in UK Whey Processing With Welsh Creamery

Gemak has successfully completed “Project Dragon”—a state-of-the-art whey, milk and cream processing with CIP units for South Caernarfon Creameries (SCC) in North Wales. 

From its inception to commissioning, this project highlights a transformative journey in the UK dairy industry, setting new benchmarks in efficiency and environmental stewardship.

The Genesis of Project Dragon

South Caernarfon Creameries, Wales’ oldest and largest farmer-owned dairy co-operative, with 160 farmer members supplying locally sourced Welsh milk, produces over 20 varieties of high-quality Welsh and British cheeses embarked on a £15 million expansion plan to increase its cheese production capacity from 15,000 tons to 23,000 tons annually. 

Backed by a £5 million grant from the Welsh Government’s Food Business Investment Scheme, this investment aimed to bolster SCC’s resilience and competitiveness in the global market.

Alan Wyn-Jones, Managing Director of SCC, mentioned that “After a thorough tendering process, Gemak was chosen due to their ability to integrate into our existing processes and systems, lead times, quality and competitiveness.”

Gemak: An Industry Leader

Established in 1986, Gemak specialises in the design and manufacture of world-class hygienic processing equipment and engineered solutions for the dairy, beverage, food, plant-based, and chemical sectors.

A Vision Realised: Advanced Technology and Sustainability

Gemak’s role in “Project Dragon” was pivotal. Besides leveraging its expertise in designing and manufacturing hygienic whey processing plant, the project also included a new milk and cream processing plant, storage silos, and a CIP unit for SCC’s existing cheese plant. The facility boasts a processing capacity of 600 tonnes per day of milk and whey concentrate, making it one of the most advanced dairy processing plants in the UK. This groundbreaking technology not only ensures exceptional product quality but also streamlines processes, reducing energy consumption, reduction in carbon footprint and optimising resource utilisation.

Kursat Uysal of Gemak UK expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the partnership: “We were proud and excited to have been chosen by SCC as their technology partner for this project and even more proud to have successfully completed and achieved KPIs. This milestone marks an important step for Gemak in entering the UK whey processing market.”

Pioneering Sustainability Achievements

Andrew Lyons from Engineer IQ, who led the process project management, stated, “The plant was designed to deliver optimal operational efficiency and sustainable solutions with stringent KPIs on waste levels, utility consumption, and operating costs.”

The completion of Project Dragon goes beyond conventional targets, achieving above expectation sustainability milestones. Initially designed for net-zero water consumption on-site, the facility exceeded expectations, earning a “Net Zero Plus water” distinction by generating over 100,000 litres of high-quality clean water daily beyond what is recovered and reused on-site.

Gemak also delivered a facility capable of processing whey at a rate of 30 tons per hour and producing whey concentrate from RO (HIRO) with an unprecedented capability of 30% total solids—a first in the UK.

Alan Wyn-Jones expressed his satisfaction upon the project’s completion:

"Completing this project has been both a challenging and rewarding experience. Gemak’s team demonstrated dedication and expertise, making the collaboration productive. Their hard work played a key role in achieving our goals. I appreciate their commitment and look forward to future collaborations."

The project’s success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of SCC, Gemak, and their partners. Gemak worked closely with industry leaders Alfa Laval, Schneider Electric, Tetra Pak, Grundfos, and Ematics to deliver a truly world-class facility.

Gemak would like to extend their gratitude to Andrew Lyons and Richard Pettifor who has been crucial and involved in process design, problem solving and execution.

Kursat Uysal also reflected on the project’s successful completion and commissioning:

“We're thrilled and delighted to have completed this monumental project despite the challenges along the way. Establishing one of the UK’s most advanced whey processing facilities, capable of producing whey concentrate with 30% total solid, is a milestone for the UK dairy industry and a source of immense pride for us.

"I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our valued client SCC, the dedicated Gemak team, and all our solution partners for their perseverance and commitment.

"By exceeding our KPI’s, this project has greatly contributed to sustainability and efficiency, and we believe it will pave the way for many more important projects. We eagerly look forward to collaborating on future projects with SCC and achieving new milestones together."

https://www.gemak.co.uk/