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Wednesday, 28 May 2025

How Children Can Honour Their Parents with a Thoughtful Party on Global Day of Parents

Global Day of Parents, celebrated on 1st June, is a wonderful occasion to express gratitude and love for the people who’ve guided us through life with patience, sacrifice and unconditional support. 

While cards and small gifts are thoughtful, nothing quite matches the joy of spending quality time together. What better way to celebrate than by hosting a heartfelt party in their honour?

Whether you're a young child with some help from adults or an adult child planning a surprise, throwing a party can be a meaningful and memorable way to recognise all your parents do. Here’s how children of all ages can honour their parents with a well-planned celebration.

1. Choose a Party Style They’ll Love

Every parent is different. Some may prefer a quiet garden tea party, while others might enjoy a lively BBQ or themed dinner party. Start by thinking about what your parents enjoy:

For traditional parents: A vintage-inspired afternoon tea with scones, finger sandwiches, and fine china.

For laid-back parents: A garden picnic with homemade sandwiches, lemonade and simple games.

For sociable parents: A small gathering with close friends and family, maybe even with some music and dancing.

For foodies: A cook-together dinner party where you recreate their favourite dishes.

2. Get Creative with Decorations and Personal Touches

Decor doesn't need to be expensive to be meaningful. Try incorporating:

Family photos into banners or table centrepieces.

Handwritten notes or drawings from children.

Memory boards or video slideshows showing family moments over the years.

A 'thank you wall' where guests can write what they love about the parents being celebrated.

These simple, personal touches often mean more than elaborate decorations.

3. Include Favourite Foods and Drinks

Food is at the heart of every good party, and Global Day of Parents is no exception. Take the time to:

Cook their favourite meal or dessert.

Set up a mini drinks station with their preferred tea, wine, beer or cocktails.

Create a simple buffet with contributions from siblings or family members.

You could even turn it into a themed meal — “Mum’s Mediterranean Night” or “Dad’s Favourite Comfort Foods”.

4. Organise Meaningful Activities

To keep the atmosphere warm and engaging, plan a few light activities that show appreciation:

‘This Is Your Life’ Game: Have guests share fond memories or funny stories.

Gratitude speeches or poems written by children.

A family talent show with music, jokes or skits.

Create a memory jar where everyone writes down a special moment or what they appreciate about the parents.

5. Make It Multigenerational

If you’re celebrating grandparents too, encourage younger children to get involved by:

Helping make decorations.

Baking simple treats.

Creating handmade cards or banners.

Putting on a little performance or reading a poem.

It’s a beautiful way to bring generations together and strengthen family bonds.

6. Include a Keepsake

End the party with a lasting memento. Consider:

A scrapbook compiled during the party with photos and messages.

A family recipe book with everyone’s favourite dishes.

A framed photo from the day.

A planted tree or flowers as a symbol of growing together.

Hosting a party for your parents on Global Day of Parents isn’t about spending loads of money — it’s about showing love, appreciation, and gratitude in a thoughtful and personal way. Whether it's a quiet brunch or a full-blown garden bash, what matters most is the time spent together and the memories created.

This 1st June, let’s raise a toast to the incredible people who raised us — and make them feel truly cherished.

That's Christmas 365: Helping Your Customers (and Your Business) Through...

That's Christmas 365: Helping Your Customers (and Your Business) Through...: As the cost of living continues to rise and economic uncertainty looms, both businesses and their customers are feeling the pressure. In the...

World Multiple Sclerosis Day: Raising Awareness Through Food and Drink

World Multiple Sclerosis Day is a time to unite in raising awareness, improving understanding, and supporting the lives of those affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS). 

With over 130,000 people in the UK living with MS, it’s more important than ever to start conversations and build community support. One unique and impactful way to do this is through the universal language of food and drink.

In this post, we’ll explore how you can use food-focused events to promote MS awareness, and which foods and supplements may be beneficial for those living with the condition.

Raise Awareness with Food and Drink

Hosting or participating in food and drink-based activities is a simple yet effective way to bring attention to MS. Here are a few ideas to get involved and get cooking:

1. Host an MS Awareness Coffee Morning or Afternoon Tea

Invite friends, family, or colleagues for a cuppa and cake. Serve MS-themed bakes using orange icing (the awareness ribbon colour) or create a table with orange-themed foods. Encourage donations to an MS charity such as the MS Society UK or Shift.ms.

2. Charity Bake Sale or Pop-up Stall

Partner with a local café, tearoom, or market to host a bake sale with MS facts on each table or cake stand. Include leaflets or posters about local support groups or upcoming MS events.

3. Orange Food Day

Orange is the colour of MS awareness. Why not create a menu featuring orange foods? Think roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin soup, mango smoothies, or orange-infused cakes. Share the recipes online with the hashtag #WorldMSDay.

4. Cocktails for a Cause

Design a signature orange drink, non-alcoholic or otherwise, and donate a portion of sales or event proceeds to MS charities. Add a tag to your cocktail glass sharing quick MS facts or quotes from people living with MS.

Nutritional Support for People Living with MS

While obviously no specific diet cures MS, a healthy, balanced diet may support overall wellness, reduce inflammation, and help manage fatigue and other symptoms. Always consult with a medical professional before making dietary changes.

Here are some commonly discussed dietary components and supplements:

Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Oily Fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel): Rich in omega-3 fatty acids which may help reduce inflammation.

Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and other greens are packed with antioxidants.

Berries: High in polyphenols and vitamin C, which help fight oxidative stress.

Turmeric: Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Vitamin D

Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to higher MS risk and disease progression. Sun exposure helps, but many people with MS take vitamin D3 supplements.

B Vitamins

Especially B12, which supports nerve health. Eggs, dairy, and fortified cereals are good sources.

Whole Grains and Fibre

May support gut health, which is increasingly connected to autoimmune conditions. Try oats, quinoa, and brown rice.

Avoid Highly Processed Foods

Some people with MS find that processed sugars and saturated fats worsen symptoms or fatigue. Reducing intake may help manage energy levels and inflammation.

Useful UK Resources

MS Society UK – www.mssociety.org.uk

Shift.ms – www.shift.ms

Overcoming MS – www.overcomingms.org

These organisations provide support, community stories, dietary advice, and fundraising ideas.

World Multiple Sclerosis Day is a meaningful opportunity to shine a light on the MS community — and food is a warm, accessible way to start conversations. Whether you're baking for a cause, whipping up orange smoothies, or learning how to better support loved ones through diet, every action counts.

Let’s toast (with orange juice or turmeric tea!) to increased understanding, solidarity, and hope for those living with MS.

First Aid Tips and Ideas for a Busy Working Kitchen

In a bustling kitchen environment, whether it's a professional restaurant, café, or catering kitchen, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. 

Sharp knives, hot surfaces, heavy lifting, and fast-paced service all create risks that, without proper awareness and preparation, can quickly lead to injury. 

A solid understanding of first aid is not just useful—it’s essential.

Here are key first aid tips and ideas every busy kitchen should implement to protect staff and maintain a safe working environment.

1. Stock and Maintain a Fully Equipped First Aid Kit

Every working kitchen must legally have a first aid kit that’s appropriately stocked and accessible. Essentials include:

Assorted plasters and sterile dressings

Burn dressings and gel (e.g. Burnshield)

Sterile eye wash

Antiseptic wipes

Disposable gloves

Bandages and tape

Finger cots or stall dressings (particularly useful in food prep)

Scissors and tweezers

A digital thermometer

First aid guidance leaflet

Make sure kits are checked weekly, with used items replaced promptly. Place kits in clearly marked, easily accessible areas—ideally near each workstation.

2. Train All Staff in Basic First Aid

Basic first aid training should be part of every kitchen induction. While not everyone needs to be a certified first aider, all staff should know how to:

Treat cuts and grazes safely

Respond to minor burns and scalds

Perform CPR and use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator), if available

Manage choking incidents

Spot signs of allergic reactions and anaphylaxis

Encourage ongoing training, and display emergency numbers prominently, including NHS 111 and the nearest A&E department.

3. Common Kitchen Injuries and How to Handle Them

Cuts and Lacerations

Use blue waterproof plasters (a food industry standard) to cover any wound. Apply pressure to stop bleeding and elevate the injury if needed. For deeper cuts, seek medical attention.

Burns and Scalds

Immediately run the burn under cool running water for at least 20 minutes. Do not apply oils, butter, or ice. Use a sterile, non-fluffy dressing, and avoid bursting blisters. Burns covering large areas or those affecting the face, hands, or genitals should be seen by a medical professional.

Slips, Trips and Falls

If someone falls, assess for head injuries or broken bones. Do not move them unless they're in danger. Ensure wet or greasy floors are mopped promptly and clearly signed to prevent incidents.

Eye Injuries

Splashes from hot oil, cleaning chemicals or food prep can cause irritation or burns. Use an eyewash station immediately and seek urgent care for any chemical or deep tissue injury.

Choking

Encourage the person to cough. If that fails, administer back blows and abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre). Call 999 if they lose consciousness and begin CPR if necessary.

4. Promote a Culture of Safety and Awareness

Prevention is always better than cure. In a high-pressure kitchen, encourage staff to:

Wear protective gear (cut-resistant gloves, non-slip shoes)

Use safe cutting techniques

Store knives and heavy items securely

Keep walkways clear and dry

Take regular breaks to reduce fatigue-related accidents

Regularly review safety procedures, especially when onboarding new staff or introducing new equipment.

5. Have a Clear Emergency Action Plan

Make sure all team members know the emergency procedures:

Who to call in an emergency

The location of first aid kits and fire extinguishers

How to evacuate the premises if necessary

Where to find the accident logbook (required for all workplace injuries)

Designate a trained first aider for each shift and keep contact lists up to date.

A fast-paced kitchen doesn’t need to be a dangerous one. By preparing staff with practical first aid knowledge, keeping kits well-stocked, and prioritising safety culture, you’re investing in the wellbeing of your team and the success of your business. 

Accidents may be inevitable—but with the right preparation, injuries don't have to escalate.

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.