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Tuesday, 27 May 2025

Stand Out from the Crowd: Why and How You Should Differentiate Your Food Establishment

In today’s saturated food and drink market, standing out is no longer optional—it’s vital. From trendy street food trucks to high-end restaurants and cosy cafés, the UK is brimming with culinary options. 

So, how can your food establishment rise above the noise and earn loyal customers? The answer lies in differentiation.

Why Differentiation Matters

1. Consumer Choice is Overwhelming

With so many dining options available, customers are spoilt for choice. 

To make their decision easier, they’re drawn to establishments that offer something unique—whether that’s a standout dish, a distinctive theme, or a memorable brand experience.

Also, don't slavishly merely copy what your rivals are good at. Look at what they don't do all that well (for example, their range of teas might be lacking, poor quality coffee, indifferent beer choice, wines that are a little underwhelming. Then make sure you offer high quality teas and coffees, stock attractive beers and wines, etc.

2. Price Wars are a Race to the Bottom

Competing on price alone rarely works long-term. Differentiation allows you to charge based on value, not just cost, helping you maintain healthier profit margins.

3. Builds Brand Loyalty

People don’t just fall in love with food—they fall in love with experiences. When customers connect emotionally with your brand, they’re far more likely to return, recommend, and post about it online.

4. Supports Stronger Marketing

A differentiated brand gives you a clear story to tell across social media, your website, PR efforts, and beyond. It helps your messaging be more consistent and memorable.

How to Differentiate Your Food Establishment

1. Refine Your Concept

Start by evaluating what makes your place special. Ask yourself:

What inspired you to start this business?

What kind of experience do you want diners to have?

What’s missing from the local food scene that you can provide?

Example: A café offering locally sourced, foraged ingredients in a rustic woodland setting has a clear, niche concept that sets it apart from mainstream chains.

2. Focus on Signature Dishes or Drinks

Curate a few must-try items that become synonymous with your brand. Think about what you can do differently—unexpected flavour pairings, plant-based twists on classics, or indulgent limited-time offers.

3. Create an Immersive Atmosphere

Ambience plays a huge role in the dining experience. Invest in décor, music, scent, and even the uniforms of your team to reinforce your identity. Whether you’re aiming for nostalgic retro vibes or minimalistic Scandi chic, make sure every element ties together.

4. Deliver Exceptional Service

Friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic staff can be a major point of difference. Personal touches—like remembering a regular’s order—go a long way in creating loyal patrons.

5. Embrace a Cause or Community

Align your business with a cause that resonates with your values. Whether it’s sustainability, reducing food waste, or championing local suppliers, it adds meaning to your brand and gives customers another reason to support you.

6. Leverage Your Location

Use local ingredients, name dishes after landmarks, or celebrate regional heritage through your menu. This builds a deeper connection with your community and can attract curious tourists too.

7. Be Socially Savvy

In today’s digital age, your Instagram feed can be as powerful as your menu. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses, customer stories, food prep videos, and user-generated content to boost engagement and reinforce what makes you unique.

Some final points to consider

Differentiation isn’t just about being different—it’s about being distinctive in a way that matters to your audience. By offering a unique experience, telling your story clearly, and delivering consistent quality, you’ll not only attract attention but keep it. In a competitive food scene, that’s the real recipe for success.

Celebrate National Creativity Day by Cooking Up Something Inspiring

National Creativity Day, celebrated every 30th May, is a reminder of the power of imagination and original thinking — not just in the arts or sciences, but in everyday life. 

And what better place to tap into your creative spirit than the kitchen?

Whether you're a home cook experimenting with leftovers or a seasoned chef running a busy pub or restaurant, this day is your excuse to get a little bold, break the rules, and create something extraordinary.

Why Celebrate Creativity in the Kitchen?

Food is art. It’s also science, culture, and comfort — all stirred into one. Kitchens, be they cosy domestic ones or bustling commercial ones, are natural spaces for creativity to thrive.

World Creativity Day gives you a chance to step out of routine and into innovation, whether that means trying a new technique, reinventing a classic, or encouraging your staff to come up with their own specials.

For Home Cooks: Turn Your Kitchen into a Creative Playground

You don’t need to be a trained chef to get imaginative. Here are a few fun ways to spark culinary creativity at home:

Cook Without a Recipe: Pick a few ingredients and challenge yourself to make a meal from scratch.

Reinvent a Family Favourite: Take a staple dish and add a twist — think Thai-style shepherd’s pie or beetroot-infused Yorkshire puddings.

Host a "Chopped"-Style Challenge: Invite friends or family to compete using a mystery box of ingredients.

Explore a New Cuisine: Choose a country at random and prepare a traditional dish you've never made before.

For Restaurants and Pubs: Put Creativity on the Menu

Hospitality venues are perfectly placed to celebrate World Creativity Day with flair. Here’s how:

Feature a One-Day Creative Menu: Let your chefs design a small menu of original dishes that push boundaries.

Staff Innovation Day: Encourage kitchen and bar staff to collaborate on new specials — maybe even turn it into a friendly competition.

Get the Customers Involved: Ask regulars to suggest ingredients for a special dish or cocktail, then name it after them.

Social Media Showcase: Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of the creative process — from brainstorming to plating.

Don’t Forget Drinks!

Creativity isn’t just about food — it's also a perfect day to play with flavours behind the bar:

Invent a Signature Cocktail for the day using seasonal or unexpected ingredients.

Craft Mocktails for inclusive, family-friendly fun.

Tea & Coffee Twists: Think herb-infused teas or spiced-up brews with homemade syrups.

Make It Meaningful

Creativity can also be a vehicle for sustainability and inclusion. Why not:

Use up surplus ingredients to reduce waste.

Highlight local producers and seasonal flavours.

Invite community members to share traditional recipes and stories.

Share Your Creations

Encourage everyone — from home cooks to restaurant teams — to share their creative dishes online using suitable hashtags. It’s a great way to connect with others, get inspired, and show off your masterpieces.

Final Thoughts

Food brings people together. On National Creativity Day, let your kitchen — wherever it is — become a canvas for connection, innovation, and a whole lot of fun. Whether you’re plating up fine dining fare or rustling up comfort food with the kids, there’s no wrong way to be creative.

So roll up your sleeves, grab your whisk or your wok, and celebrate the joy of culinary creativity.

Celebrating Corpus Christi with Shared Meals for Congregation and Family

Corpus Christi, Latin for the Body of Christ, is a beautiful feast day celebrated by many Christians around the world.

It honours the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist and offers an opportunity for reflection, worship, and communal togetherness.

While the spiritual aspects of Corpus Christi are central—Mass, processions, adoration—there’s also a strong tradition of gathering together in fellowship. One of the most meaningful ways to mark this holy day is by sharing meals that reflect the joy, unity, and reverence of the occasion.

Whether you're planning a gathering for your church congregation or an intimate celebration with family, here are some thoughtful ways to incorporate food into your Corpus Christi traditions.

1. Start with the Eucharistic Symbolism

Begin your celebration by acknowledging the deep symbolism of bread and wine in the Eucharist. While the consecrated elements in Mass are sacred and not for casual use, you can still use the symbolism of bread and grapes (or non-alcoholic grape juice) to spark conversations about the meaning of the day.

Ideas:

Serve freshly baked loaves of bread—consider inviting members to bake and bring their own varieties.

Include grape-based beverages or decorate tables with bunches of grapes as a visual reminder of the Eucharist.

2. Host a Church Potluck or Parish Picnic

Organising a Corpus Christi potluck is a wonderful way to extend the spirit of communion beyond the sanctuary. Set up long tables to symbolise unity, and encourage everyone to bring a dish that reflects their family or cultural heritage. In Britain it is always wise to have wet weather plans, too./

Potluck tips:

Create a sign-up sheet to ensure a variety of dishes (starters, mains, sides, desserts).

Consider a theme of "sharing and abundance", encouraging generous but simple dishes like casseroles, pasta bakes, salads, and stews.

Offer a blessing over the meal that ties in the feast’s meaning.

3. Create a Family Feast at Home

If you're celebrating at home, make it a reflective and special meal. You can incorporate Scripture reading before dinner or play soft hymns in the background.

Menu ideas:

Roast chicken or lamb – traditional and festive.

Herb-roasted vegetables – symbolising creation and growth.

Challah bread or a rustic sourdough – sharing bread can be a powerful ritual.

Fruit platters or homemade tarts – to represent the sweetness of God’s love.

Include children in the preparation and explain the significance of each food item. You might also light a candle at the table to represent Christ’s presence.

4. Baking as a Devotional Act

Invite congregation members to take part in baking as a form of prayer. Simple bread recipes or unleavened crackers can be made while meditating on Scripture or praying for the needs of the community.

Share the baked goods after Mass, or wrap them as gifts for elderly parishioners or those who are housebound.

5. Incorporate Global Catholic Traditions

Corpus Christi is celebrated around the world, and each culture brings unique traditions to the table.

Try including:

Mexican pan de yema (a sweet egg bread)

Polish pierogi or kielbasa

Filipino pancit (noodles for celebration and long life)

Italian biscotti for a sweet treat with coffee

Letting each family or group represent a region or heritage during the meal can turn your event into a joyful expression of the global Church.

6. Feed the Body and Soul

In keeping with Christ’s teachings, consider setting aside part of your celebration to prepare food for those in need. Whether it's putting together meal parcels, hosting a soup kitchen, or supporting a local food bank, Corpus Christi is a powerful reminder to serve others as part of the body of Christ.

Final Thoughts

Celebrating Corpus Christi with a shared meal brings together the spiritual and the tangible, echoing the beauty of the Eucharist itself—a heavenly mystery made real and present among us. Whether through simple loaves at home or a joyful parish feast, meals can become a powerful expression of communion, community, and love.

Let every shared bite on Corpus Christi be a reminder of the sacred feast we are called to—together.

Put some JING Into Your Life! Ekstedt at The Yard Adds Twist to Menu with JING Tea Pairing

JING™ has revealed two of their single garden loose leaf teas have been selected to create an innovative pairing twist on the Scandinavian-inspired set tasting menu and The Chef's Table at Ekstedt at The Yard, London. 

The partnership between JING and Michelin starred chef Niklas Ekstedt's first restaurant outside Sweden celebrates a joint passion for creating exceptional experiences. 

Melanie Tricklebank, CEO of JING™ told That's Food and Drink: “We travel the world to responsibly source the highest quality and most remarkable single garden teas directly from tea origins across the globe, with a mission to change how people think about and experience the tea they drink. 

We've worked very closely with the team at Ekstedt at The Yard to select teas that pair perfectly with the bay leaf ice cream, fermented strawberries and honey mead dish on the spring menu.

It's a real testament to that team's refined palate and dedication to innovation that they have chosen our Phoenix Honey Orchid and Vanilla Black teas to feature alongside their world-class wine pairings, to offer their guests an elevated dining experience.”

Klearchos Kanellakis, Head Sommelier from Ekstedt at The Yard told us: “We're committed to providing unparalleled culinary encounters and constantly seeking ways to exceed expectations. We have thoroughly enjoyed working with JING to curate this selection of teas to complement our Scandinavian-inspired dish.”

Ekstedt at The Yard was opened in 2021 by multi award winning Michelin starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in Great Scotland Yard Hotel in Westminster. 

It focuses on Scandinavian cooking techniques with open fire cooking and only employs the very best seasonal British ingredients. 

Guests can choose to dine at The Chef's Table or try the 5-course Journey to Scandinavia tasting menu or the 7-course Immersive Journey to Scandinavia with the option to add a wine flight with their Volcanic or Emerging Regions pairing. The Chef's Table is limited to an intimate seven guests at a shared table with a front-row seat to the magic of the kitchen.

JING™ wants to change the way people think about and experience tea by finding and curating the world's most remarkable teas from the most interesting producers and sharing the fascinating stories behind them.

 JING™ travels the world to discover and responsibly source the highest quality teas directly from single gardens connecting with the world's most talented artisan tea producers. With a transparent supply chain that comes from these meaningful and long-lasting relationships, JINGS' supply model helps them survive and thrive.

 Drinking JING™ tea really is a revelation, once experienced you'll taste flavours you didn't know existed and feel a new connection through the history, innovation and culture of each origin story.

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

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

For more information visit  jingtea.com | @jingtea

To learn more about Ekstedt at The Yard visit https://ekstedtattheyard.com

Monday, 26 May 2025

How to Liven Up Your Home-Baked Bread with Peanut Butter Powder

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread wafting through your kitchen. But if you're looking to give your loaves a little extra personality, there's one simple ingredient that can take your baking to the next level—peanut butter powder.

Whether you’re a seasoned bread baker or just beginning, incorporating peanut butter powder into your dough is a fantastic way to infuse rich, nutty flavour without the mess or added oil of traditional peanut butter. Plus, it pairs beautifully with both sweet and savoury toppings.

What Is Peanut Butter Powder?

Peanut butter powder is made by pressing roasted peanuts to remove most of the oil, then grinding the nuts into a fine powder. What you’re left with is a light, shelf-stable ingredient that delivers that classic peanut taste but with far fewer calories and fat.

Why Add It to Bread?

Aside from the obvious deliciousness, here are a few reasons to try peanut butter powder in your next bake:

Enhanced Flavour: Adds a subtle, nutty warmth without overpowering your bread.

Versatile Pairings: Works well with honey, bananas, jam, bacon, or even cheese.

Nutritional Boost: Contains protein and fibre, giving your bread an extra nutritional edge.

No Added Oil: You get the taste without compromising the texture of your dough.

How to Use It

Adding peanut butter powder is simple. You can mix it directly into your dry ingredients. Start by substituting 2 to 4 tablespoons of flour with peanut butter powder in your favourite bread recipe. If you want a stronger flavour, feel free to experiment and go up to ¼ cup (roughly 30g), especially for sweeter loaves.

Recipe Idea: Peanut Butter Powder Sandwich Bread

Here’s a basic outline to get you started:

Ingredients:

500g strong white bread flour

30g peanut butter powder

7g salt

7g instant yeast

300ml warm water

30ml olive oil or melted butter

1 tbsp honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

Method:

In a large bowl, mix the flour, peanut butter powder, salt, and yeast.

Add warm water, oil, and honey if using. Stir until a dough forms.

Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Cover and let rise until doubled in size (around 1 hour).

Knock back, shape, and place in a loaf tin or on a baking tray.

Let it prove again for 30–45 minutes.

Bake at 200°C (180°C fan) for 30–35 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Creative Twists

Want to get adventurous? Try these variations:

Add chopped peanuts for crunch.

Swirl in jam or honey for a peanut butter and jelly (jam!) vibe.

Use in rolls or buns for packed lunches or picnics.

Top with oats or seeds before baking for extra texture.

Final Thoughts

Peanut butter powder is an easy and delicious upgrade to your baking routine. Whether you’re making a hearty sandwich loaf or a sweet breakfast bread, a spoonful or two can make a big difference. Give it a try and let your loaves shine with a nutty twist that’s sure to impress.

Have you tried baking with peanut butter powder? Share your thoughts or tag your creations—we’d love to see what you bake!

Think Before You Slogan: Why Your Food or Drink Brand’s Message Matters

In the world of food and drink branding, a great slogan can be your most powerful marketing tool. 

It’s the phrase that lingers in customers’ minds, gets repeated at dinner tables, and sometimes becomes part of pop culture. 

But a confusing or poorly worded slogan can do just the opposite—muddy your brand message, make your audience cringe, or even turn them away.

Take Pepsi’s recent slogan: “Living it, not liking it.” At first glance, it feels like a rallying cry for passion or authenticity—perhaps Pepsi is trying to align with a bold, unapologetic lifestyle? 

But dig a little deeper, and the meaning becomes murky. “Not liking it”? For a product you’re asking people to drink and enjoy, that wording seems counterintuitive. 

Some viewers have even interpreted the advert as suggesting that Pepsi isn’t something you’re supposed to like—just something you endure. Hardly the message you’d want to send about a drink you are trying to market.

This highlights a crucial truth for any business, especially in food and drink: words matter.

Your slogan isn’t just decoration—it communicates your values, personality, and promise to the customer. 

It's often the first impression someone gets of your brand. If it doesn’t make sense, or worse, gives off the wrong impression, it can undermine everything else you’re trying to build.

What Makes a Great Slogan?

Here are a few principles to keep in mind when crafting your own slogan:

Clarity over cleverness: A pun or twist of phrase can be memorable, but only if the meaning is clear. Confusion is the enemy of engagement.

Speak to the benefit: Your slogan should hint at why your product is worth trying. Is it delicious, comforting, energising, or indulgent? Say so.

Stay on brand: If your business is fun and quirky, your slogan can reflect that. But don’t stray so far into quirkiness that your core message gets lost.

Test your ideas: Run your slogan past people who haven’t been involved in creating it. Their first impressions can reveal whether it’s landing the way you intend.

Bottom Line

Whether you're selling artisan chocolate, local craft beer, or a new plant-based snack, don’t rush your slogan. It should earn its place alongside your logo, website, and social media presence as a key brand asset. Learn from the big players—not just from what they get right, but from the missteps too.

Because at the end of the day, you don’t just want people “living it.” You want them loving it.

Sunday, 25 May 2025

Are Celebrity-Endorsed Diets and Supplements Really Worth It?

In an age of social media influence and celebrity culture, it’s easy to be swept up in the hype of a new diet or food supplement, especially when it’s backed by a famous face. 

From detox teas and collagen powders to keto drops and intermittent fasting plans, the list of celebrity-endorsed health trends grows longer by the day. 

But before you buy into the promises of glowing skin, rapid weight loss, or boundless energy, it’s worth asking—are these products and plans actually beneficial, or just another marketing ploy?

Fame Doesn’t Equal Expertise

One of the most glaring issues with celebrity-endorsed health products is the lack of any qualifications. Many celebrities endorsing these diets or supplements have no background in nutrition, medicine, or science. 

Their appeal often lies in their appearance, lifestyle, or popularity, rather than any genuine understanding of human health or the science behind food and supplements.

While it’s entirely fair to take an interest in how someone stays healthy, it becomes problematic when that individual is promoting products without a solid understanding of the long-term effects, nutritional value, or potential risks. A flawless complexion or slim physique might owe more to genetics, personal chefs, or expensive skincare regimes than to a trendy diet pill or green juice.

The Influence of Celebrity Culture

Celebrities hold significant sway over public opinion. When a well-known actor or reality TV star praises a supplement on Instagram, it can feel like a recommendation from a trusted friend. But what’s often left unsaid is the financial incentive. These endorsements are frequently part of paid partnerships, and the goal is not your health—it’s product sales.

The problem is compounded when young, impressionable audiences are exposed to messages that suggest their current bodies aren’t good enough, and that buying a particular supplement or diet plan is the key to self-worth or happiness.

Questionable Claims and Lack of Regulation

The supplement industry is notoriously under-regulated, especially in the UK and US. Many products hit the shelves with minimal testing, and the claims made—boosted metabolism, faster weight loss, enhanced brain function—are often not supported by peer-reviewed research.

Even diets that seem harmless on the surface may lead to imbalanced eating, nutrient deficiencies, or disordered relationships with food. When these approaches are wrapped up in celebrity sheen, their risks are often glossed over.

What Should You Trust Instead?

If you're considering a new diet or supplement, it's always best to consult with a registered dietitian, nutritionist, or your GP. These professionals can offer advice based on evidence and your personal health needs—not what’s trending on TikTok.

Look for scientific studies, unbiased reviews, and real-world results. Be wary of products that promise quick fixes or rely heavily on before-and-after photos and vague testimonials. True health doesn’t come in a sachet or a bottle—it’s the result of long-term habits, balanced nutrition, and a sustainable approach to wellbeing.

The Bottom Line

There’s no harm in wanting to feel better, improve your health, or even look a bit more like your favourite celebrity. But it’s important to recognise that their endorsements aren’t always coming from a place of expertise—or honesty.

Before you spend your hard-earned money on a celebrity-endorsed diet or supplement, ask yourself: Is this backed by science, or just backed by fame?

Why You Shouldn’t Allow Vaping on Your Food Premises

Running a food business means maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness, customer comfort, and regulatory compliance. 

One policy that often prompts debate is whether to allow vaping on-site. 

While some may view it as a less harmful alternative to smoking, allowing vaping in your café, restaurant, or food retail premises can cause more harm than good—for your brand, your customers, and your staff.

Here are the key reasons why vaping has no place on food premises:

1. Customer Comfort and Experience

Food businesses thrive on atmosphere. For many customers, the presence of vapour clouds—often heavily scented—can be off-putting and disruptive. Even non-nicotine vapours can irritate sensitive individuals or cause discomfort for those with respiratory conditions such as asthma. Some diners may associate visible vapour with smoking and find it unhygienic or unpleasant when eating. Creating a neutral, fresh-smelling environment helps ensure a positive experience for all.

2. Food Hygiene and Safety

One of the golden rules in food service is to minimise contamination risk. Vapour from e-cigarettes can carry particles, flavourings, and even traces of nicotine. While studies on the direct contamination risk are limited, the principle of protecting food from any foreign substance is clear. Vapour lingering around preparation or dining areas undermines the hygiene standards your business is required to uphold.

3. Staff Welfare and Workplace Safety

Allowing vaping indoors exposes staff to substances they may not consent to inhale—particularly in confined or poorly ventilated spaces. This can create a stressful work environment or lead to disputes among team members. Enforcing a no-vaping policy demonstrates care for your employees’ wellbeing and promotes a more professional, inclusive workplace.

4. Brand Image and Public Perception

Your brand is more than just your menu—it’s how people feel when they walk through your doors. Permitting vaping may signal a lack of professionalism or make your establishment seem less clean or family-friendly. In contrast, a clear and fair no-vaping policy reinforces your commitment to quality and care.

5. Regulatory Considerations and Legal Clarity

While vaping is not currently banned in indoor public spaces under the Health Act 2006 (which prohibits smoking), business owners are within their rights to implement their own policies. Some local councils and food safety officers may look unfavourably on vaping in food environments. By taking a proactive stance, you minimise the risk of future complications or enforcement issues should legislation evolve.

6. Avoiding the Grey Area

Unlike smoking, which is clearly regulated, vaping exists in a regulatory grey area. This can lead to confusion among staff and customers. By having a straightforward, visible no-vaping policy—ideally with clear signage—you eliminate ambiguity and make it easier to manage behaviour on your premises.

Conclusion: Take a Clear Stance

In the food industry, clarity, hygiene, and comfort are essential. While vaping may be less harmful than smoking, it still introduces odours, chemicals, and confusion into an environment where food safety and customer satisfaction should be the priority. Protect your brand and your customers by keeping vaping off the menu.

Top Tip: Make your policy known—post signage, include it in staff training, and politely enforce it when needed.

Friday, 23 May 2025

Three Reasons to Visit Cornwall's Firebrand Brewing Co: Beer, Events & Gifts

Firebrand Brewing Co is based just off the A30 in Launceston, Cornwall, where it brews, serves and sells its alcoholic and non-alcoholic beers. Here are 3 reasons why you should visit them this summer.

1: It's The Best Place to Try Firebrand's New and Small Batch Beers

Firebrand's taproom is a dynamic community space where craft beer meets culture. Open from Wednesday to Saturday, the taproom offers a rotating selection of their freshest, limited-batch beers, brewed on-site. With ten taps pouring everything from hazy IPAs to crisp lagers, there's always something new to enjoy, alongside all your Firebrand favourites. 

Some of their small-batch beers don't get the opportunity to make it out of the brewery so this is the best place to be if you want to try all their latest brews. Just outside, a variety of food trucks serve up delicious street food that pairs perfectly with their pints. Offerings range from wood-fired sourdough pizzas to Middle Eastern flatbreads, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate. 

2: They Host Some of The Most Entertaining Free Events in Cornwall

The taproom is a hub for live music and community gatherings, hosting regular music events such as Open Mic Nights and Songwriters' Nights, which provide a platform for emerging talent, and Firejam, a lively jam night fostering spontaneous musical collaborations. 

For those who prefer a cerebral challenge, they host regular fun nights of Pop Bingo and their charity Beer & Brains Quiz. Most of their events are free entry with the exception of the Beer & Brains Quiz (£2.00pp) where half the proceeds go to charity and the other half to the winner.

3: It's The Perfect Place to Stock Up on Beer & Gifts

For those based in the area, popping into an event or just passing through en route to a Cornish holiday, their Beer Shop is the perfect place to stock up on Firebrand Beer and merchandise. The shop is open Monday to Saturday and stocks all the core Firebrand brews as well as all the latest small-batch beers, fresh out of the brewery. 

Visitors can fill up on their fantastic range of authentic alcoholic and non-alcoholic Cornish beers and pick up some gifts too. The brewery is just behind the renowned Philip Warren Butchers, making it the perfect drink and BBQ stop. 

Firebrand Brewing Co was forged in 2012 in a converted milking parlour on the untamed edge of Bodmin Moor, North Cornwall. The idea was born from a passion for beer made from all-natural ingredients, Cornish spring water and American hops. 

Its highly acclaimed beers include Shorebreak Alcohol Free Hazy Pale, Little Wave Alcohol-Free Lager, Summerleaze Hazy Pale, Helles Beach Lager and West Coast, a session IPA. For further information on Firebrand Brewing Co. please visit www.firebrandbrewing.co.uk or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. 

Thousands to Be Informed, Inspired and Have Their Taste Buds Tantalised at the Allergy & Free from Show

The Allergy & Free From Show, partnering with Koko Dairy Free, returns to Olympia this June (21st - 22nd). 

Re-locating to the iconic Grand Hall to cater for increased demand, the UK's biggest event dedicated to everything free from will host an impressive line-up including the 'Queen of Gluten Free' Becky Excell, 'The Doctor's Kitchen' Dr Rupy Aujla, Hollyoaks and Corrie actress Stephanie Davis, plus siblings Tyler and Lewis West.

The unmissable two day showcase will see over 15,000 attendees discover everything they need to know about free from, with learning experiences, interactive features and fun activities for the entire family, plus a packed agenda featuring almost 50 speakers, including the biggest names in the industry, across two stages and a live kitchen.

New Show highlights include a Mindfulness Zone sponsored by Arla LactoFREE with practical mindfulness sessions and Allergies in the Home in partnership with Allergy UK, which showcases household solutions for allergy sufferers, plus a fun and interactive Family Trail. 

These complement the event's popular features such as Balmonds Skin Clinic with advice, Q&As and product demonstrations, plus the Family Zone, Cafés sponsored by NOMO, the Meet and Greet area and a VIP Blogger Lounge sponsored by Kirsty's.

With more exhibitors than ever before, The Allergy & Free From Show in partnership with Koko Dairy Free will be connecting thousands of people with notable brands including Dr Schar, TESCO, M&S, Warburtons Gluten Free, EcoEgg, Balmonds, Olsson Hair Care, Robert Thomas, Creative Nature, Elave Skincare, plus new emerging exciting entrants in the free from space.

Timetable of Speakers

Saturday June 21st

Inspiration Stage sponsored by Koko Dairy Free - (fireside chats, panel discussions and clinics)

Featuring: Morgan McKenzie Moore (Host), Professor Adam Fox, Ruth Holroyd, Becky Excell, Sarah Howells, Ali Walsh, Lorna Gardner, Julianne Ponan MBE, Penny Hamilton, Jo Greenslade, Lucy Gulland, Nadim Ednan-Laperouse and Tanya Ednan-Laperouse.

The Live Kitchen sponsored by Tesco (live demonstrations)

Featuring: Steve Walpole, Sarah Howells, Adam Edwards, Jamie Robinson, Kate Lancaster, Francesca Della Penna and Dr Rupy Aujla.

The Education Stage sponsored by Ready2React (educative talks)

Featuring: Dr Jose Costa (Host), Nic Wilson, Ready2React, Dr Glenis Scadding, Catherine Hobson, Simon Williams, Tracey Dunn, Ben Freedman, Betsy Craig and Asal Shirazi BEM.

Sunday June 22nd

Inspiration Stage sponsored by Koko Dairy Free - (fireside chats, panel discussions and clinics)

Featuring: Morgan McKenzie Moore (Host), Stephanie Davis, Dan Kelly, Kirsty Henshaw, Lucy Upton, Dr Karen Murphy, Jo Greenslade, Amena Warner, Dr Chloe Paco-Gleeson, Tyler West and Lewis West.

The Live Kitchen sponsored by Tesco (live demonstrations)

Featuring: Nathalie Newman, Dale Pinnock 'The Medicinal Chef', Becky Excell, Julianne Ponan MBE and Eva Humphries.

The Education Stage sponsored by Ready2React (educative talks)

Featuring: Dr Jose Costa (Host), Goldie Putrym, Paula Benedi, Stacey Forsey, Amy Langfield and Ali Walsh.

Annie Bennett, Event Manager told That's Food and Drink: "It's really very exciting to see the show continuously develop in line with the evolving community, and I know the crowds will be impressed by the stellar line-up we have assembled across the stages and live kitchen for 2025. The growth in demand from visitors and exhibitors means we're moving into The Grand Hall this year, a large, ambient event space with stunning Victorian architecture."

The opening times of the show are 9am – 5pm on Saturday 21st June and 10am – 4pm on Sunday 22nd June, with no entry after 2pm on Sunday. Tickets are still available with a 50% OFF limited time offer until 3rd June using code '1MONTH'.

https://allergyshow.co.uk/