Raise a Glass, a Mug, or a Fork: Hosting Fundraisers for World Blood Cancer Day

Every year on 28 May, people across the globe unite in support of World Blood Cancer Day, raising awareness of the over 1.2 million people diagnosed each year with blood cancer. 

Whether it’s leukaemia, lymphoma, or myeloma, these diseases don’t discriminate—and neither should our support.

If you're looking for a meaningful way to get involved, why not combine your love of socialising with a powerful cause? 

Hosting a coffee morning, lunch, or wine and cheese party is a fantastic way to bring people together while raising money and awareness for blood cancer research, support services, and donor registration campaigns.

Coffee Morning for a Cause

Coffee mornings are an accessible and cosy way to fundraise. Invite friends, colleagues, neighbours—or your entire street—and enjoy a laid-back morning of brews, bakes and bonding. Here’s how to make it a success:

Date & Time: Pick a morning close to 28 May to mark the occasion.

Venue: Your home, a local hall, or even the office break room.

Theme: Red is the symbol of World Blood Cancer Day—decorate with red balloons, tablecloths, or cupcakes with red icing.

Fundraising ideas: Ask guests to donate what they’d normally spend on a coffee run, run a bake sale, or set up a ‘guess the weight of the cake’ game.

Top Tip: Print out blood cancer facts and donor registration info to place around the room. It’s a brilliant conversation starter.

Lunchtime with Purpose

Turn an ordinary lunch into an extraordinary opportunity. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a sit-down meal at home, your midday get-together can be both delicious and impactful.

Dish ideas: Keep it simple with sharing platters, seasonal salads, or a build-your-own sandwich bar.

Activities: Incorporate a quiz about blood cancer myths and facts or share stories from survivors and donors (with permission).

Donations: Suggest a set price per plate or use the “pay what you feel” approach.

Include a moment of reflection or a toast to those affected by blood cancer. It makes the event more meaningful for everyone.

Wine & Cheese with a Cause

For an evening affair, a wine and cheese party is a sophisticated and sociable choice. Whether it's a garden gathering or a cosy night in, you can easily pair fun with fundraising.

Wine & Cheese Pairings: Offer tastings with brief descriptions. Local British cheeses and wines give it a lovely regional touch.

Silent Auction or Raffle: Partner with local businesses for donated prizes.

Music & Mood: Light background music and soft lighting create the perfect atmosphere.

Raise your glass in honour of World Blood Cancer Day and encourage guests to register as stem cell donors or contribute to a chosen blood cancer charity.

Where the Money Goes

Funds raised can be donated to organisations such as:

Anthony Nolan https://www.anthonynolan.org/

DKMS UK https://www.dkms.org.uk/

Leukaemia UK https://www.leukaemiauk.org.uk/

Blood Cancer UK https://bloodcancer.org.uk/

These charities support patients, fund vital research, and run donor drives—making a difference every day.

Make It Social (and Shareable)

Don’t forget to promote your event on social media. Use hashtags like #WorldBloodCancerDay, #MakeYourMark, and #BloodCancerAwareness to connect with the wider campaign. Post updates, photos, and fundraising links before, during, and after the event.

Small gatherings can lead to big change. Whether you’re pouring tea, serving lunch, or clinking glasses, your efforts will help shine a light on blood cancer and the people it affects.

This 28 May, let’s raise awareness—and funds—together.

Simple & Tasty Refrigerator Porridge with Oats, Cinnamon, Honey & Greek Yogurt

Many years ago late one evening I put some cold milk into a bowl of raw oats, intending to eat them right away. 

However I realised that I was so tired that I'd rather go to bed than eat, so I put the bowl into the fridge for safe keeping.

The next morning I remembered the bowl of oats, removed it from the fridge and found that I had accidentally invented refrigerator porridge before it had become a general breakfast staple. 

Over the years I have changed, tweaked and improved my recipe and I can say if you're looking for a no-fuss, make-ahead breakfast that's both wholesome and delicious, refrigerator porridge (also known as overnight oats) is the way to go. 

This simple recipe combines hearty oats, creamy Greek yogurt, fragrant cinnamon, and a touch of honey for natural sweetness — all ready to grab straight from the fridge in the morning.

Whether you're rushing out the door, enjoying a slow start to the day, or need a refreshing post-workout snack, this porridge ticks every box. Plus, it's endlessly customisable!

Ingredients (Serves 1)

50g rolled oats

100g Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)

120ml milk (dairy or plant-based – your choice)

1 tsp honey (or more to taste)

½ tsp ground cinnamon or try ground ginger, too

Optional toppings: fresh berries, sliced banana, chopped nuts, seeds, a drizzle of nut butter

Method

Mix the base

In a jar, bowl or airtight container, stir together the oats, Greek yogurt, milk, honey and cinnamon until fully combined.

Chill overnight

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The oats will soften and absorb the liquid, creating a creamy, pudding-like texture.

Add your toppings

In the morning, give the porridge a quick stir. Add your favourite toppings and enjoy straight from the fridge — no cooking required!

Tips & Variations

Make it vegan: Use plant-based yogurt and swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.

Boost the protein: Stir in a spoonful of chia seeds or a scoop of protein powder before refrigerating.

Seasonal swaps: Try adding grated apple or pear in autumn, or a handful of fresh berries in summer.

Why You'll Love It

This refrigerator porridge is:

✔ Naturally sweetened

✔ High in protein and fibre

✔ Ideal for meal prep

✔ Customisable for any season

And best of all — no hob, no fuss, just grab and go.

Do you make overnight oats at home? Share your favourite combinations in the comments or tag me on Instagram with your creations!

Chicken... Banana? The latest viral trend is here just in time for the summer

What do a chicken, a banana, and billions of views have in common? Chicken Banana — the viral hit from Swedish duo Maads and Bruno (Crazy Music Channel) — has exploded online to become one of 2025’s biggest TikTok trends.

The numbers are staggering: 10 billion views globally across all major platforms, with 2 billion views on TikTok, 6.5 billion on YouTube Shorts, and 1.9 million TikTok creations. The official video has topped 34 million views, with streams nearing 300,000 per day. Chicken Banana isn’t just a song — it’s a cultural moment!

It’s simple, silly, and catchy choreography has sparked a global dance movement. From kids and families to farmers and grandparents, the trend has crossed age and cultural lines. Celebrities like @ginjiro_koyama and @ciizezphr, plus celeb families like @carlosferiag and @lafamiliagomes, have all joined the wave.

Mainstream media has picked it up too, with features on Germany’s Frühstücksfernsehen, Dancing with the Stars Austria, and even in German Schlager pop. The trend’s universality and low barrier to entry have helped it thrive everywhere.

Plenty of companies haven’t missed out - everyone from entertainment groups to video game franchises and even supermarkets have jumped on the Chicken Banana trend, putting their own creative spin on it.

So why is it so irresistible? A bouncy electro-house beat, a modulated bassline, and a looping male voice chanting “Chicken Banana” with an Indian flair — it’s hypnotic and absurd in the best way.

To truly understand TikTok, you need to know Chicken Banana. And once you do, you'll suddenly understand a whole lot more.

https://crazymusicchannel.lnk.to/ChickenBanana

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/music/Chicken-Banana-7465696476092042006

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY27hxWP4QRIvTnJvrfGJoA

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazymusicchannel/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazymusicchannel

SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/crazymusicchannel

Creating Food Memories for Your Family: The Joy of Shared Meals

Some of the most treasured moments in life are tied not just to what we ate, but to who we were with and how we felt. 

A roast dinner on a rainy Sunday. Hot buttered crumpets after school. 

The scent of a parent’s special recipe wafting through the house. 

These are more than meals—they’re memories. And as parents, carers, or hosts, we have the power to create those unforgettable food moments for the next generation.

Why Food Memories Matter

Food memories aren’t just about nostalgia—they build connection, culture, and comfort. They’re the stories our children will tell one day: "My mum made the best Victoria sponge," or "Every Christmas, we’d bake mince pies together." These memories root us in family, in tradition, and in love.

How to Start Creating Food Memories

You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. Some of the best food memories are built on simplicity, routine, and a little fun.

1. Establish a Weekly Tradition

Taco Tuesdays, Friday Night Curry, or Sunday Roast can quickly become beloved rituals.

Let the kids help plan the menu or set the table—it gives them ownership and makes the occasion special.

2. Cook Together

It might be messy, but it’s worth it. Baking biscuits on a rainy afternoon or making homemade pizza lets children explore tastes, textures, and skills.

Cooking together teaches patience, teamwork, and the joy of creating something from scratch.

3. Celebrate the Seasons

Mark the year with seasonal favourites: strawberry picking in summer, toffee apples at Halloween, hearty stews in winter.

Build annual food traditions around holidays, birthdays, or even the first snow of the year.

4. Pass Down Family Recipes

Share the story behind a recipe: who taught you, when you first made it, why it’s special.

Create a little recipe book or family food journal to keep these stories alive for future generations.

5. Make Mealtimes Screen-Free

Sitting down together, without distractions, opens the door to laughter, conversation, and connection.

Even if it’s just once or twice a week, those shared meals build stronger family bonds.

Creating Comfort and Connection

Food memories are often tied to comfort. The cup of tea Mum made after a bad day. The warming bowl of soup when you were poorly. The late-night toast after getting home from university. These aren’t gourmet moments—they’re emotional ones. Being there, offering care through food, is a quiet but powerful kind of love.

Remember: It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect

Burnt toast, lumpy mash, biscuits that didn’t rise—these will all still be remembered fondly if they’re part of a shared story. Don’t let the pressure for perfection stop you from trying. It’s not about the food being flawless—it’s about it being yours.

Final Thoughts?

Food connects us. It tells our stories, celebrates our heritage, and carries our love. By creating food memories with your family, you’re giving them something that lasts far beyond the last bite: a feeling of belonging, joy, and home.

So set the table, let the flour fly, and make some memories—one meal at a time.

Greener, Smarter, Cheaper: Sustainable Delivery Solutions for Independent Food Producers

In today’s eco-conscious world, independent food producers, farm shops, and artisan makers face a unique challenge — how to deliver their fresh, often perishable products in a way that’s both environmentally responsible and economically viable. 

With rising fuel costs, urban low-emission zones, and growing consumer demand for green practices, it’s more important than ever to rethink how food gets from farm to fork.

Whether you’re delivering fresh eggs from a smallholding, craft gin from a micro-distillery, or hampers packed with local cheeses, here are some practical strategies to make your delivery methods more sustainable — without breaking the bank.

1. Rethink Vehicle Choices

Large delivery vans are often more than what’s needed for small-scale producers. Switching to smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles — or even electric vans — can dramatically cut emissions and running costs.

Ideas to explore:

Electric cargo bikes for local drop-offs (ideal in towns and cities). Or even pedal-powered delivery bikes.

Shared electric vans through local co-operatives or business partnerships.

Investigate government grants or tax incentives for electric vehicle purchases in the UK (e.g., the Plug-in Van Grant).

2. Collaborate Locally

Pooling resources can save fuel and cut emissions. If several producers in your area are delivering to the same town or region, why not share the load?

How it works:

Set up a producer delivery network in your local area.

Use one shared vehicle or courier to deliver multiple producers’ goods in a single trip.

Coordinate via WhatsApp, Slack, or free logistics tools like Routific or Circuit.

This cooperative model works especially well for farm shops and local markets with multiple suppliers.

3. Offer Click & Collect or Drop-off Points

Home delivery isn’t always the greenest option. Instead, set up designated collection points or partner with existing local businesses as pick-up locations.

Benefits:

Reduces the number of delivery miles.

Encourages footfall to supporting local shops and cafés.

Offers flexibility to customers who may not be home for deliveries.

Rural areas especially benefit from this model, helping customers save on postage while still supporting local.

4. Use Eco-Friendly Packaging

Sustainable delivery isn't just about the journey — it's also about the packaging.

Tips for greener packaging:

Choose compostable or recyclable materials (avoid polystyrene or single-use plastics).

Use insulated wool liners or reusable ice packs for chilled goods.

Encourage a returns system for packaging materials like jars, crates or boxes.

Also consider offering a small discount or loyalty reward for customers who return packaging.

5. Optimise Delivery Routes

Route planning software can significantly cut down delivery times, fuel use and stress.

Recommended tools:

Routific or Circuit Route Planner (great for small business use).

Google Maps’ route optimisation for free, small-scale operations.

Track mileage and emissions to assess long-term savings.

Avoid backtracking, reduce idle time and group deliveries by geography and time of day.

6. Partner with Green Courier Services

If you’re sending produce further afield, look for third-party courier services with a green focus.

What to look for:

Electric or hybrid vehicle fleets.

Carbon-neutral operations (e.g., DPD UK’s carbon offsetting programme).

Local bike courier collectives in urban areas like London, Bristol or Manchester.

Ask your courier what sustainability practices they have in place — customers are increasingly interested in this information too.

7. Communicate Your Commitment

Finally, let your customers know what you're doing. Share your delivery changes and eco-efforts on your website, social media, and packaging. Transparency builds trust — and your commitment to sustainability could be what sets you apart in a crowded market.

Final Thoughts

Going green with your delivery logistics doesn’t have to be expensive or complex. By thinking creatively, working with others, and using available tools and technology, independent food producers and farm shops can create a delivery system that’s good for the planet — and the bottom line.

Have you made a green delivery switch that worked well for your business? Share your story in the comments — we'd love to hear it!

What Would Happen to the British Landscape If Everyone Became Vegan?

The idea of a fully vegan Britain is gaining traction as interest in sustainable and ethical eating continues to rise. 

But have you ever stopped to consider what the British countryside would look like if everyone made the switch to aals plant-based diet?

Some years ago a vegan said to me that she looked forward to the time when everyone as vegan and she would be able to see cows and sheep grazing in fields and know that they would be safe from anyone eating them.

When I pointed out to her that under those circumstances there would be no animals in the fields as farmers would only be growing vegetable crops, she was genuinely taken aback as she hadn't taken that into consideration. 

Over the years I have thought about how our landscape would change if everyone became vegan, which is why I have written this blogpost.

Farms, fields, and food systems would all undergo dramatic changes. In this post, we’ll explore the likely outcomes for the British landscape—both positive and negative—if the entire population went vegan.

The Positive Landscape Changes

1. Less Land Needed for Agriculture

One of the most significant changes would be a reduction in the amount of land needed to produce food. Animal agriculture is land-intensive. Grazing pastures, feed crops, and infrastructure for livestock take up around 85% of UK agricultural land—yet meat and dairy provide only about 32% of the calories we consume.

With no need for livestock, vast areas could be rewilded or used more efficiently for growing crops for human consumption.

2. Biodiversity Restoration

Rewilding previously grazed land would create opportunities to restore natural habitats. Native wildlife, such as red squirrels, pine martens, birds of prey, and pollinators, could return in greater numbers. Reintroducing woodland and wetlands could also boost biodiversity and help restore ecological balance.

3. Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Livestock farming contributes significantly to methane and nitrous oxide emissions—two potent greenhouse gases. A fully vegan Britain could cut agricultural emissions drastically, making it easier to meet climate targets and improve overall air quality.

4. Cleaner Rivers and Soils

The end of large-scale livestock farming would mean a reduction in slurry runoff, antibiotic residues, and overgrazing—all of which currently damage river ecosystems and soil health. This could lead to cleaner waterways, healthier fish populations, and more fertile land.

The Potential Drawbacks

1. Loss of Traditional Farming Landscapes

Iconic British scenes—rolling green pastures with grazing sheep, dry stone walls, and centuries-old farm buildings—are tied to livestock farming. If meat and dairy production ceased, many of these cultural landscapes might disappear or be radically altered.

2. Impact on Rural Economies

Many rural communities rely on livestock farming for income, employment, and local identity. A transition to plant-based agriculture or conservation-based land use would require significant investment in retraining, support, and infrastructure. Without this, some areas could face economic decline.

3. Over-Reliance on Imported Crops

Although the UK can grow a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and grains, some key vegan staples—like soya, nuts, and certain legumes—are often imported. If not managed carefully, a shift to 100% veganism could increase dependence on overseas agriculture, raising questions about food security and carbon footprints.

4. Land Use Dilemmas

Not all agricultural land in the UK is suitable for growing crops. Upland regions, such as the Scottish Highlands or parts of Wales, are better suited to grazing than arable farming. Without livestock, some of these areas may be underutilised unless rewilded or repurposed in other innovative ways.

5. Unexpected impacts

Wool is used in the making of clothing and also for insulation material for eco-friendly construction. The lack of wool would result in the use of man made fibres which might have knock-on impacts on broader society. 

Finding a Balanced Future

While a vegan Britain would bring sweeping environmental benefits, it also presents logistical, cultural, and economic challenges. Some experts argue that a mixed system—one that dramatically reduces but doesn't eliminate animal agriculture—might offer the best of both worlds.

This could involve:

Reducing meat consumption rather than total elimination.

Supporting regenerative and low-impact farming.

Using marginal land for sustainable grazing.

Combining rewilding with food production.

Conclusion

A fully vegan Britain would transform our landscapes, likely for the better in terms of environmental impact. However, the transition would not be without its costs. Thoughtful planning, support for rural communities, and sustainable land management would be essential to make such a vision work in practice.

Whether you're an advocate for plant-based living or simply curious about the future of food and farming, it’s clear that our dietary choices shape more than just our health—they sculpt the very land we live on.

What are your thoughts? Would you like to see more plant-based farming in the UK? Share your views in the comments below!

Healthier Homemade Versions of Your Favourite Snacks

If you’ve ever found yourself reaching for a bag of crisps or a chocolate bar and after eating the crisps or the chocolate bar regretting it, you’re not alone.

We all crave a good snack now and then — but shop-bought options can be packed with salt, sugar, and preservatives. 

The good news? You can make delicious, healthier versions of your favourite snacks at home with just a few simple ingredients.

Here are some easy and satisfying alternatives to traditional treats like crisps, popcorn, and sweet bites — all with a nutritious twist.

1. Crisp Alternatives: Baked Veggie Crisps

Why it’s better: Swapping out deep-fried potatoes for oven-baked vegetables slashes the fat and salt while boosting your fibre and nutrient intake.

How to make it:

Slice vegetables like sweet potato, beetroot, carrot, or courgette very thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife.

Toss in a small amount of olive oil and season with herbs or spices (smoked paprika, garlic powder, or rosemary work beautifully).

Bake at 180°C (fan 160°C) for 15–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and golden.

Bonus tip: Try kale crisps! Just tear kale leaves into pieces, massage with oil and sea salt, and bake for 10 minutes.

2. Popcorn Perfection

Why it’s better: Popcorn is naturally low in calories and high in fibre — as long as you skip the buttery, sugar-coated versions.

How to make it:

Heat a teaspoon of oil in a pan, add popcorn kernels, cover, and shake occasionally until popping slows.

Flavour with nutritional yeast (for a cheesy kick), cinnamon and a touch of honey, or chilli and lime zest for something savoury.

Avoid: Microwave popcorn bags loaded with additives and trans fats.

3. Homemade Fruit Leathers

Why it’s better: Store-bought versions often contain added sugars and colourings. Homemade ones are just fruit — and a bit of patience.

How to make it:

Blend fresh or frozen fruit (strawberries, apples, mango, etc.) into a purée.

Spread thinly onto baking paper and dry in a low oven (around 80–90°C) for 4–6 hours until tacky but not sticky.

Cut into strips and roll up.

Great for: Lunchboxes, car journeys, or after-school treats.

4. Nut Butter Energy Bites

Why it’s better: These offer slow-release energy from nuts and oats, without the refined sugar crash.

How to make it:

Mix together 100g oats, 2 tablespoons nut butter, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, and your choice of extras: chia seeds, dark chocolate chips, or dried fruit.

Roll into small balls and chill for 30 minutes to firm up.

Perfect as: A pre-gym snack or mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

5. Greek Yoghurt Dips and Dippers

Why it’s better: Swap creamy shop-bought dips (which can be surprisingly high in fat and salt) for protein-packed Greek yoghurt bases.

How to make it:

Mix Greek yoghurt with lemon juice, grated cucumber, garlic, and mint for a quick tzatziki.

Or try yoghurt with a spoon of harissa and lime for a spicy dip.

Serve with homemade pitta chips (cut pitta bread into triangles, brush with oil and bake) or raw veg sticks.

Final Thoughts

Healthy snacking doesn’t mean boring snacking. With a little creativity, you can recreate your favourite treats with wholesome ingredients and less guilt. Not only are these homemade versions better for you, but they’re also fun to make — especially if you get the kids involved.

Give these recipes a try and see just how satisfying smarter snacking can be!

EatProtein Launches New Plant Based (Vegan) Protein Powder Specifically Designed for Women’s Wellness

EatProtein, the leading innovator in plant-based nutrition, is excited to announce the launch of its latest product: the Plant-Based Wellness Protein Powder, which is a comprehensive, women-focused vegan supplement crafted to support strength, vitality, gut health and overall well-being.

This all-in-one, scientifically formulated powder uniquely combines high-quality pea protein with natural ingredients known for their health benefits, delivering more than just a protein boost. 

It’s designed to empower women to feel stronger, more energized, and balanced every day.

“Our new vegan protein powder is a game-changer for women seeking a delicious, clean supplement tailored to their specific health needs,” Becky Lovelock, head of Social Media EatProtein, told That's Food and Drink.

“It’s packed with functional ingredients like DHA Omega-3 for brain health, live cultures and fibre for gut wellness, and vital vitamins and minerals to support hormonal balance and reduce fatigue — all without artificial flavours or common allergens.”

Becky went on to say “We wanted to create a product that genuinely caters for women’s health. It’s not just about providing protein; it’s about supporting overall well-being in a way that's easy and enjoyable to incorporate into our daily life. We believe our new Wellness Protein Powder will inspire women to prioritize their health and feel empowered every day.”

Key features of the Plant-Based Wellness Protein Powder include:

20g of high-quality Pea Protein Isolate: Supports muscle growth and recovery with fast absorption.

Gut-friendly fibres and live cultures: Chicory root inulin and probiotics promote digestive health.

Quick energy from Coconut MCT Oil Powder: Provides sustainable, immediate fuel.

Essential nutrients: DHA Omega-3, B6, B12, magnesium, and folic acid help regulate hormones, boost energy, and enhance cognitive function.

All-natural, allergen-free: Dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, with no artificial flavours, sweeteners, or added sugars.

Specifically designed for women’s unique health needs, this nourishing plant-based shake seamlessly integrates into any daily routine: just add 30g of powder to 250ml water or plant-based milk, shake, and enjoy.

About EatProtein’s Plant-Based Wellness Protein Powder

Every scoop delivers a balanced blend of nutrients aimed at elevating female health from within. Its comprehensive formula supports energy, digestion, mental clarity, and hormonal balance, making it an essential addition to health-conscious lifestyles.

For more information, visit EatProtein’s website. here https://www.eatprotein.co.uk

Nearly 20k emergency food parcels provided to people facing hunger by Southend Foodbank in the past 12 months

Stock footage

18,854 emergency food parcels provided to people facing hunger by Southend Foodbank in the past 12 months  

Alarmingly over 7,000 of the parcels were provided for children in the last year

The Foodbank has had to spend £145,000 on topping up food donations

This announcement comes as new annual figures from Trussell show that 2,885,086 food parcels were given out across the UK.

Anti-poverty charity Trussell, says this should be a 'wake-up call’ for the UK government to strengthen the social security system and re-think cuts to welfare that risk forcing more people to rely on food banks

Nearly 19,000 emergency food parcels were provided to people facing hardship between April 2024 and March 2025, with 7,263 of these provided for children, according to new figures Southend Foodbank released today.

Southend Foodbank has seen a slight reduction of 8% in the number of emergency food parcels distributed compared to last year. 

However, despite this slight dip, the area the Foodbank covers across Southend City and Rochford has seen persistently high levels of need over the past five years, which is an overall increase of 188% on the figures from 5 years ago.

Cass Francis, Comms & Campaigns Coordinator at Southend Foodbank told That's Food and Drink: “We are pleased the initiatives we’ve put in place in the last few years, such as Citizens Advice Advisors in most of our distribution sessions, have helped our guests maximise the support they are able to receive. 

"While these new figures seem like a moment of good news, with a small decrease in the amount of food parcels we’ve given out, they are still indicative of the continuing high level of financial insecurity in Southend and Rochford that bring people to the doors of our food bank.

“Five years ago, the food parcels we gave out were almost entirely made up of donations from the public, but as the need for emergency food has increased we had to start buying provisions each month – and in the past year we have had to spend £145,072 just to make sure we can keep up with the need we see in our community.”

Southend Foodbank is part of the Trussell community of food banks, which has reported persistently high levels of need in the last year, with nearly 3 million (2,885,086) emergency food parcels provided to people facing hardship across the UK between April 2024 and March 2025. Over a million of these parcels were provided for children.

Southend Foodbank believes everybody should have enough money in their pockets to put food on the table and is calling on the community to play their part to help end the need for emergency food in the UK.

Until then, the public can help make sure Southend Foodbank continues to provide warm, compassionate, practical support and advice in the year ahead by donating food or funds at southend.foodbank.org.uk

Emma Revie, CEO at Trussell, said: “Far too many children, families, disabled people, working people, and elderly people from across Southend needed to access food banks for emergency food in the past year. This should be a wake-up call to government and a stark reminder of their responsibilities to the people of Southend.

“A whole generation has now grown up in Southend and Rochford where sustained high levels of food bank need feel like the norm. The community has teachers, doctors, and healthcare professionals now routinely referring people to food banks as part of their day to day jobs, showing how emergency food has sadly become a fixture. If you can, please play your part and help change this.”

Why We Should Declare June as National Bacon Month – Celebrating Quality, Sustainability, and Flavour

When it comes to culinary icons, bacon remains a firm favourite across the UK – versatile, indulgent, and undeniably delicious. 

But what if we went a step further and declared June National Bacon Month? 

Not just a celebration of the familiar rasher in your breakfast bap, but a month-long ode to high-quality, high-welfare, responsibly sourced bacon and its lesser-known by-products.

In this blog post, we're making the case for why June deserves to be dedicated to bacon — the right kind of bacon.

Why Bacon Deserves a Month of Its Own

Bacon has been part of the British culinary tradition for centuries, from traditional back bacon in a fry-up to streaky bacon wrapped around sausages at Christmas. But beyond its familiar comforts lies a growing movement: a demand for better bacon — ethical, flavourful, and free from unnecessary additives.

June is the perfect month for National Bacon Month. It marks the beginning of summer, bringing with it the scent of weekend BBQs and alfresco breakfasts. It’s the season of food festivals, garden parties, and leisurely Sunday brunches – all ideal settings for showcasing bacon in its best forms.

Quality Over Quantity: High-Welfare, High-Quality Bacon

Not all bacon is created equal. Supporting National Bacon Month gives us a chance to shift focus from mass-produced supermarket packs to bacon from small-scale, high-welfare farms. Look for bacon that's:

Outdoor-reared or free-range, ideally RSPCA Assured or certified by the Soil Association

From heritage or rare breed pigs, known for their depth of flavour and ethical rearing

Cured naturally, often by hand, using traditional methods

By celebrating bacon in this way, we not only support British farmers but also encourage consumers to ask where their meat comes from and how it’s been produced.

The Nitrate-Free Revolution

For many, bacon’s only downside has been its traditional curing process, which often includes sodium nitrates – linked to health concerns when consumed in excess. Fortunately, a new wave of artisanal producers is leading the charge with nitrate-free bacon, cured naturally with sea salt and fruit extracts.

National Bacon Month would be the perfect opportunity to highlight and promote these healthier, cleaner alternatives, encouraging consumers to make informed choices without compromising on flavour or texture.

Bacon Beyond the Rasher: Lard, Scratchings and Sustainability

Bacon doesn’t stop at breakfast. A celebration of bacon should also shine a light on its derivatives, many of which are rooted in zero-waste, nose-to-tail eating principles.

Lard: Once vilified, lard is making a comeback as a natural, sustainable fat. Ideal for pastry, roast potatoes, and frying, lard is flavourful, affordable, and far less processed than many modern cooking oils.

Pork Scratchings: When made from high-quality pig skin and minimal ingredients, pork scratchings become a nostalgic yet modern bar snack – rich in protein and satisfying with a pint.

Bacon Drippings: Don’t toss that leftover fat – use it to season greens, roast vegetables, or make a truly decadent bacon gravy.

By embracing these elements, National Bacon Month could encourage consumers to reduce waste and rediscover traditional ingredients with a modern, health-conscious twist.

Supporting Local, Artisan Producers

This movement also provides a platform for British bacon producers — many of whom are independent butchers and farms – to gain visibility. From traditional Wiltshire cure to dry-aged Suffolk bacon, these producers bring craftsmanship and passion to the table. A month dedicated to bacon could inspire more people to visit their local farmers’ markets, discover new varieties, and learn about curing methods.

What Could National Bacon Month Look Like?

Imagine a June filled with:

Bacon pop-ups and markets featuring nitrate-free and heritage bacon

Workshops on traditional curing methods

Tasting menus and recipe contests showcasing bacon in unexpected ways – think bacon-washed cocktails or vegan dishes paired with lard-based pastry alternatives

Retail spotlights promoting British, high-welfare bacon brands

Charity tie-ins supporting sustainable agriculture or food poverty projects through bacon sales

Let’s Make It Official

Food months are about more than just consumption — they’re about culture, awareness, and celebration. National Bacon Month in June would offer a delicious yet meaningful way to:

Champion British farming and ethical animal welfare

Encourage sustainable eating practices

Showcase healthier, nitrate-free bacon

Reclaim traditional by-products like lard and scratchings with pride

So here's to the bacon butty, the smoky strip atop your salad, the drippings in your roast potatoes, and everything in between. Let’s celebrate bacon — properly.

Let’s make June National Bacon Month. Who’s in?

https://nationalpigassociation.co.uk

https://ahdb.org.uk/pork