That's Christmas 365: Golden Turkey - Not Just for Christmas

That's Christmas 365: Golden Turkey - Not Just for Christmas: Golden Turkeys are produced by an association of like-minded farmers (Step forward  The Traditional Farmfresh Turkey Association ) spanning...

Brum! Brum! The Great British Beer Festival returns for 2025 and will be hosted at a brand-new location

Hailed as the UK’s most popular beer festival and hosted by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), it takes place this year for the first time at Birmingham’s iconic National Exhibition Centre (NEC) from 5 to 9 August.

Leaving the UK’s capital city after a successful 34-year stint in London, the festival’s new location makes it even easier for festival goers to raise a glass and explore the many drinks on offer.

CAMRA has been running beer festivals on this scale for 50 years, with the first four-day event taking place in 1975 at Covent Garden. 

The first Great British Beer Festival was held back in 1977 at Alexandra Palace. 

With tens of thousands planning to attend, the festival – which is part of CAMRA’s mission to bring together beer-lovers – will feature in excess of 500 cask and other beers, a dedicated cider and perry bar, ‘no and low’, wine and cocktails - catering for everyone. 

These are provided from renowned UK and international breweries including St Austell Brewery, Brains Brewery, Green Duck Beer Co, Harvey’s Brewery, Greene King, Siren and Thornbridge, as well as Birmingham-based Attic Brew Co.

Campaigning since 1971, CAMRA has been the leading light in ensuring quality cask beer, cider and perry can be enjoyed in pubs across the UK, while celebrating pubs, pints and people.

Alongside its famous selection of pints, attendees will also be able to enjoy a selection of food and snacks, as well as a variety of entertainment including live music in the afternoons and evenings.

And the winner of CAMRA’s much-coveted Champion Beer of Britain competition will be unveiled at the festival, with the winning beers available at the event.

Beer and pub lovers can also join the campaign, getting involved in CAMRA’s vital work, aimed at protecting pubs, protecting pints and championing people. There is also the chance to meet brewers at the Discovery bar, learning more about beer.

For non-beer drinkers, a wide array of ‘low and no’ alcohol drinks will be on offer, along with hot and cold drinks meaning there’s something for the whole group — or the designated drivers.

Adam Gent, CAMRA's Great British Beer Festival Organiser, told That's Food and Drink: “At CAMRA, we’re proud to stand for beer drinkers and pub-goers across the UK. 

"We know that pubs are a vital social centre for many and are passionate about promoting real, good-quality beer, cider and perry."

Adam went on to say: “The Great British Beer Festival is a fantastic way to bring people together and has played a leading role for more than half a century in our successful campaigning to protect our pubs and champion cask beer.

“Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just curious to try something new — we’ll have more than 500 drinks across a range of styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find something you love. And after a year off, we’re delighted to be bringing the festival back bigger and better than ever at the iconic NEC in Birmingham, so let's raise a glass!”

To secure your tickets to the Great British Beer Festival and stay up to date with future events and campaigns from CAMRA, visit: www.camra.org.uk

New Feature: Auto-Inserted Search Links — What Do You Think?

You may have noticed a new feature on our blog, courtesy of Google’s Blogger platform.

It now automatically adds relevant search links to certain keywords or phrases within our blog posts. 

The idea is to help readers easily explore more information related to the topic being discussed.

We’d love to hear your thoughts:

Do you find these auto-inserted search links helpful in learning more about the subject?

Do they enhance or distract from your reading experience?

Please let us know in the comments below!

Pros and Cons of Blogger’s Auto-Inserted Search Links

From the Reader’s Perspective

Pros:

Convenient access to more information: Readers can explore related topics without needing to manually open a new tab or search.

Helpful for unfamiliar terms: Especially useful for newcomers or casual readers who might need background or definitions.

Saves time: One click gives instant access to a broader context or deeper dive.

Cons:

Distraction from the main content: Clicking away mid-read can disrupt the flow of the blog.

Not always relevant or accurate: The search links are automatically generated and might not always lead to useful or trustworthy sources.

Cluttered reading experience: Too many links can visually overwhelm the text, especially if they’re not clearly distinguishable from editorial links.

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.

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.