Why World Food Safety Day Matters – And How You Can Help

Keeping Our Food Safe from Farm to Fork

Each year on 7 June, the world comes together to recognise World Food Safety Day, an important reminder that the food we eat should always be safe, nutritious, and prepared in a way that prevents illness. 

Whether you’re a home cook, food business owner, or simply someone who enjoys a good meal, food safety affects all of us—every single day.

What Is World Food Safety Day?

Launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), World Food Safety Day shines a spotlight on preventing, detecting, and managing foodborne risks. It’s a call to action for governments, producers, and consumers alike.

The 2025 theme, "Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected", focuses on the importance of being ready to manage food safety incidents—big or small—and highlights how everyone in the food chain has a role to play.

Why Is Food Safety Important?

Unsafe food can lead to over 200 diseases, from mild gastroenteritis to long-term illnesses. According to the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA), around 2.4 million cases of foodborne illness occur in the UK every year. And while large outbreaks often make the news, many food safety issues begin in our own homes and kitchens.

Food safety isn’t just a public health issue—it’s an economic one, too. Contaminated food can disrupt trade, damage business reputations, and waste valuable resources.

What Can You Do to Support Food Safety?

Here are some simple ways you can mark World Food Safety Day and make a difference:

1. Practice Safe Food Handling at Home

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling food.

Use separate chopping boards for raw meat and vegetables.

Cook foods to the right temperature.

Store leftovers properly—don’t leave food sitting out too long.

2. Check Storage and Expiry Dates

Make a habit of checking use-by and best-before dates, especially on chilled and frozen items. Keep your fridge at 5°C or below.

3. Support Clean and Responsible Food Businesses

Choose local cafés, markets, and food vendors that demonstrate good hygiene. In the UK, you can look up FSA food hygiene ratings before visiting.

4. Spread the Word

Use your platform—be it social media, a blog, or even your family dinner table—to share facts about food safety. Raising awareness is half the battle.

5. Educate Yourself and Others

From allergies to allergens, learn about food labelling, cross-contamination, and how to prevent foodborne illness. The FSA and WHO websites are great places to start.

Let’s Keep Food Safe – Together

Food safety isn’t just the responsibility of inspectors or large manufacturers. It starts with each of us—from the way we shop and store food to how we cook and serve it. On World Food Safety Day, take a moment to reflect on your own habits and help spread the message: Safe food is everyone’s business.

Mark Your Calendar: 7 June – World Food Safety Day

How will you help keep food safe this year? Let us know in the comments or tag us on social media!

https://www.food.gov.uk/food-safety-and-hygiene

https://www.gov.uk/food-safety-your-responsibilities

How to Celebrate National Cheese Day in the UK: Ideas, Recipes & Cheesy Delights

Celebrate National Cheese Day with style! Discover cheesy recipes, UK-made favourites, cheese and drink pairings, and fun ways to mark the occasion.

Say Cheese! Celebrate National Cheese Day the British Way

If there’s one thing that deserves its own holiday, it’s cheese. Rich, creamy, sharp, nutty, or tangy – cheese comes in all shapes, textures, and flavours. That’s why 4th June is a day to celebrate dairy’s most delicious gift: it’s National Cheese Day!

Whether you're a dedicated cheesemonger or a casual cracker-topper, this day is the perfect excuse to explore new varieties, try cheese-based recipes, or simply indulge. Here’s how to celebrate National Cheese Day in true cheesy style – with a UK twist.

1. Sample British Cheeses You Haven’t Tried Yet

Sure, we all love a good cheddar, but the UK has an extraordinary range of artisan and traditional cheeses worth celebrating:

Wensleydale – Light and crumbly, ideal with fruit cake or chutney

Red Leicester – Mild and nutty, perfect for melting

Cornish Yarg – Wrapped in nettles for a unique flavour

Stilton – Britain’s iconic blue cheese, strong and salty

Tunworth – A creamy British Camembert-style soft cheese

Top tip: Visit a local cheesemonger or farmer’s market to support small producers and discover regional gems.

2. Host a Cheese Tasting Night

Turn your love of cheese into a social event! Set up a cheeseboard with a selection of styles: hard, soft, blue, and bloomy rind. Add crackers, fruits, nuts, chutneys, and honeys.

Pair with wine (like a classic red with mature cheddar), craft beer (try an IPA with blue cheese), or even English cider for a rustic combo.

Don’t forget plant-based guests – there are some amazing vegan cheeses from British brands like Honestly Tasty and I AM NUT OK.

3. Cook Something Cheesy

From comfort food to classy nibbles, cheese takes recipes to the next level. Here are a few ideas:

Welsh Rarebit – A posh cheese toastie with ale and mustard

Macaroni Cheese – Make it luxe with Gruyère or Red Leicester

Cheese Soufflé – Impress with this light, fluffy delight

Cheddar Scones – Perfect for a picnic or afternoon tea

Halloumi Skewers – Great on the BBQ if the sun’s out

Share your cheesy creations on Instagram with the hashtag #NationalCheeseDay – and tag us for a shout-out!

4. Visit a UK Cheese Festival or Farm

Why not make it a cheesy day out? Many dairies and farms offer tours, tastings, and events. Look for:

The British Cheese Weekender (usually in May–June)

The Cheese and Chilli Festival (various UK locations)

Tours at places like Quicke’s (Devon) or The Courtyard Dairy (Yorkshire)

You’ll learn how cheese is made, meet passionate producers, and stock up on incredible artisan finds.

5. Make a Cheese-Themed Hamper

Create a gift (for a friend or yourself!) with:

A selection of 3–5 cheeses

Chutney and crackers

A small bottle of wine or ale

A cheese knife or board

A little guide to each cheese

Perfect for a summer picnic or a cosy night in.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're nibbling on a wedge of creamy brie or baking a bubbling dish of cheesy goodness, National Cheese Day is your chance to indulge in one of life’s finest pleasures. So go on – treat yourself to a wheel, a wedge, or a whiff – and celebrate all things cheesy!

What’s Your Favourite Cheese?

Drop a comment below or tag @ThatsFoodAndDrink on social media with your cheesiest celebration yet. We’d love to see your boards, bakes, and bites!

Why Are Pet Food Companies Putting Rice, Seaweed, Carrots and Tomatoes in Cat Food?

If you’ve ever inspected the label on your cat’s food and raised an eyebrow at the inclusion of ingredients like seaweed, carrots, tomatoes or wild rice, you’re not alone. 

For many cat owners, it seems strange. After all, your feline friend is a carnivore, right? 

Yet these plant-based ingredients are increasingly common in modern commercial cat foods, from dry biscuits to gourmet pouches. So why are they there, and do cats even like them?

Let’s unpack this curious trend in pet nutrition.

Cats Are Obligate Carnivores: So What Gives?

First things first: cats are obligate carnivores. This means they must consume meat to thrive. Their bodies are finely tuned to digest and extract nutrients from animal tissue, not plants. 

Unlike omnivores like dogs (or us humans), cats don’t naturally seek out fruit, veg or grains. In the wild, a cat might ingest trace amounts of plant matter via the stomach contents of its prey, but that's about it.

Given that, the idea of feeding a cat wild rice or tomatoes can seem, frankly, a bit daft. And plenty of cat owners report their furry companions picking around those suspicious orange chunks in their dinner. So why do pet food manufacturers persist?

The Marketing Angle: Selling to Humans

The answer, in part, lies in who pet food is really being marketed to: you, the owner. Modern cat food packaging is often designed to appeal to human sensibilities—phrases like “with antioxidant-rich tomatoes” or “with superfood seaweed” are aimed at health-conscious shoppers, not their feline companions.

Many of us now expect our own food to include "functional" ingredients, such as kale, quinoa, chia seeds, etc., so we’re subconsciously drawn to similar features in pet foods. Brands know that a product that looks nutritious to us is more likely to end up in the shopping trolley, even if our cats would rather it didn’t.

Functional Claims: Nutrients and Additives

That said, these ingredients aren’t entirely for show. Some, like carrots and tomatoes, contain antioxidants like beta-carotene and lycopene, which are thought to support immune health. Seaweed is sometimes included as a source of iodine and minerals, and wild rice may be added as a fibre source or alternative carbohydrate. 

However, it's worth noting that the actual quantities used are usually small, and any claimed benefits are often marginal, especially when compared to the essential amino acids, taurine, and fatty acids cats get from meat.

Fillers and Fibre: A Cheap Bulk Option?

Another reason for including these ingredients is cost. Some vegetables and grains act as fillers, helping to bulk out the food without adding much expense. 

They may also be used to aid with texture or binding in dry kibble. While fibre can support digestion in small amounts, too much can reduce the overall protein content, which isn’t ideal for cats.

Do Cats Like Vegetables in Their Food?

The short answer: many don’t. Some cats will eat around the veg chunks or turn their noses up at certain flavours. Others may tolerate it, especially if the vegetables are pureed or hidden in a meat-based gravy. However, preference varies widely between individual cats.

It’s important to remember that even though cats might eat food containing these ingredients, they aren’t necessarily choosing to eat the vegetables themselves. they’re likely going for the meat-based elements and simply tolerating the rest.

Should You Avoid Cat Foods With Vegetables?

Not necessarily. A small amount of plant-based ingredients isn’t harmful, and some high-quality cat foods include them as part of a well-balanced formulation. But if you notice your cat consistently rejecting food with visible veg, or if you're concerned about the protein content, you might want to opt for a product with a simpler, more meat-heavy ingredient list.

Look for foods that list high-quality animal proteins (like chicken, turkey or tuna) as the first ingredients, and keep an eye on the overall nutritional breakdown—your cat’s protein needs should come first.

Final Thoughts

The inclusion of ingredients like seaweed, carrots, tomatoes or wild rice in cat food is more about marketing to humans and, occasionally, cost-saving than it is about feline nutrition. While these additions aren’t necessarily harmful in small amounts, they’re not vital to your cat’s diet either.

In the end, your cat’s instincts still know best: if they sniff, nibble, and walk away from a “wild rice and tomato delight”, they might just be telling you they’d prefer something a little less trendy—and a little more meaty.

Is Your Pub, Restaurant, Café or Hotel Disabled-Friendly? Are You and Your Staff Disability-Aware?

When was the last time you evaluated your venue through the eyes of a disabled customer? 

Whether you run a cosy countryside pub, a bustling high street café, a fine dining restaurant, or a boutique hotel, accessibility should never be an afterthought. 

In the UK, over 16 million people live with a disability—yet many still face barriers when it comes to enjoying a meal out, staying in a hotel, or simply using public facilities.

So ask yourself: Is your business truly disabled-friendly? And perhaps more importantly: Are you and your staff disability-aware?

Accessibility: More Than Just a Ramp

Making your venue accessible doesn’t stop at installing a wheelchair ramp or an accessible loo. True inclusivity means taking a holistic approach. Consider the following:

Entrance and Exit: Are your doors wide enough for wheelchair users or people using mobility aids? Are there steps that lack handrails or alternative access?

Floor Plan: Is there enough space between tables for easy navigation? Are trip hazards, such as rugs or uneven flooring, addressed?

Toilets: Are your accessible toilets clean, clearly signposted, and actually accessible—not used as storage rooms or blocked? You do have accessible toilets, don't you?

Menus: Do you offer large-print menus, braille versions, or easy-read formats for people with visual or cognitive impairments?

Lighting and Noise: Is your environment too dim or too loud for people with sensory sensitivities, autism, or hearing impairments?

Digital Accessibility: Don’t Overlook Your Website

Disabled friendly hotel rooms: Do you have any guestrooms equipped for disabled guests? 

Before visiting, most customers will check your website or social media. If your site is cluttered, difficult to navigate, or lacking basic accessibility information (such as whether you have step-free access or accessible parking), you might be unintentionally turning away customers.

Ensure your website is screen reader-friendly, uses alt text for images, and clearly outlines the facilities and services you offer for disabled guests.

Staff Awareness: A Make-or-Break Moment

A venue can be physically accessible, but if staff don’t know how to interact respectfully and appropriately with disabled customers, the entire experience falls apart.

Training should cover:

Disability etiquette – e.g., don’t lean on someone’s wheelchair, speak directly to the person rather than a companion or carer.

Hidden disabilities – including autism, chronic pain, or mental health conditions, which may not be immediately obvious.

How to assist – understanding how to offer help without being patronising or overbearing.

Inclusive language – using respectful terms and avoiding outdated or offensive language.

Consider investing in Disability Awareness Training, many of which are available online through organisations like AccessAble, Disability Rights UK, or VisitEngland’s accessibility resources.

The Business Case for Inclusion

Being inclusive isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s good for business. The “purple pound” (the spending power of disabled households) is worth £274 billion to the UK economy annually. 

Yet, according to a survey by Scope, 75% of disabled people have left a business or chosen not to spend money there because of poor accessibility or customer service.

By ensuring your venue is inclusive, you’re not only expanding your customer base—you’re building loyalty, positive word of mouth, and a reputation for care and quality.

Final Thoughts: Take the First Step

Accessibility is an ongoing journey, not a tick-box exercise. Start by conducting an honest audit of your venue, engaging with disabled customers for feedback, and providing regular training for your staff.

Being disability-aware isn’t just about compliance with the Equality Act 2010—it’s about treating all your customers with the dignity and respect they deserve.

So, is your business truly accessible?

Resources:

AccessAble https://www.accessable.co.uk

Disability Rights UK https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org

VisitEngland: Accessible Tourism https://www.visitbritain.org/business-advice/make-your-business-accessible-and-inclusive/visitengland-accessible-and-inclusive

Scope: Disability Facts and Stats https://www.scope.org.uk/media/disability-facts-figures

Raising Funds with Flavour: Hosting Themed Dinners for Your Church or Charity

Fundraising doesn’t have to be all bake sales and sponsored walks. If you’re looking to raise money for your church or favourite charity while building community spirit, why not consider hosting a themed dinner event? 

These nights bring people together around a shared table and shared purpose – with plenty of fun along the way.

Here’s how to create memorable, meaningful fundraising dinners that people will talk about long after the last course is served.

Why Themed Dinners Work

Themed dinners are a brilliant way to:

Raise funds through ticket sales, raffles, and donations

Strengthen bonds in your local community

Celebrate different cultures or traditions

Encourage creativity and collaboration among volunteers

Whether you're transforming your church hall into a Parisian bistro or solving a "whodunnit" over dessert, the immersive nature of these evenings makes them more than just a meal.

Themed Dinner Ideas to Get You Started

Celebrate the Cultures of the World

Host a dinner night dedicated to the cuisine and customs of a particular country or region. You could invite guest speakers or performers, play traditional music, and decorate your venue to reflect the theme. Some popular ideas:

A Taste of Italy – Pasta, tiramisu, and perhaps a live opera singer?

Caribbean Carnival – Jerk chicken, rum punch (or mocktails), and steel drum music.

Indian Feast – A thali-style dinner with vegetarian options, colourful décor, and Bollywood dancing.

Be sure to approach cultural themes respectfully, and consider partnering with members of those communities to ensure authenticity.

Murder Mystery Evening

Put your guests in the middle of a thrilling mystery, with clues revealed between courses. These can be pre-scripted kits or bespoke stories written by a volunteer. 

Offer optional costumes, assign roles, and let guests immerse themselves in the drama. Add prizes for best-dressed or best detective to keep energy high.

Historical Banquets

Step back in time with a Tudor feast, a 1920s speakeasy, or a wartime ‘ration night’. Use vintage recipes, era-appropriate music, and period décor to enhance the experience. These events are perfect for local history buffs or themed church groups.

Movie-Inspired Meals

Design your menu and atmosphere around a beloved film or film genre. Think “Harry Potter Hogwarts Feast”, a “Great Gatsby Gala”, or a “Lord of the Rings” hobbit banquet. Include a screening or a trivia quiz to complete the night.

Planning Your Fundraising Dinner

Here are a few tips to help make your event a success:

Set a Budget and Fundraising Goal

Know your costs up front (ingredients, decorations, venue hire, etc.) and set clear targets for what you’d like to raise.

Promote Early and Widely

Use posters, social media, newsletters, and word of mouth. Consider offering early bird tickets or group discounts.

Cater to Dietary Needs

Always offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, and ask guests to notify you of allergies in advance.

Add Fundraising Extras

Include a raffle, auction, or donation table to boost income. Ask local businesses to donate prizes or sponsor the event.

Involve the Community

Encourage church members, youth groups, or local volunteers to help with cooking, serving, or entertainment. This spreads the workload and fosters greater involvement.

Final Thoughts

Themed dinners offer more than just a meal – they create lasting memories, honour diverse cultures, and bring people together for a cause that matters. With a bit of imagination and teamwork, your next fundraising event could be a night to remember and a huge help to your charity’s mission.

So light the candles, set the table, and let your community's generosity shine – one course at a time.

How to Write a Family Recipe Book and Have It Professionally Printed

Step 1: Collect Recipes from Family Members

Ask around: Reach out to parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins for their favourite recipes.

Record details: Note ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking times, and serving suggestions.

Include memories: Ask family members to share stories about the recipes—where it came from, who made it best, or which occasions it was served on.

Step 2: Organise the Recipes

Choose categories: e.g. Starters, Mains, Desserts, Baking, Holiday Dishes, Comfort Food.

Group by family member or generation if your focus is on preserving heritage.

Include an index so recipes are easy to find.

Step 3: Test and Edit

Make each recipe if you're unsure about quantities or steps.

Standardise measurements using either metric or imperial—choose one for consistency.

Proofread carefully—check for typos, unclear steps, or missing ingredients.

Step 4: Add Personal Touches

Photos: Include pictures of the dishes, family members cooking, or past holiday gatherings.

Stories: Write short intros to each recipe with memories or origin stories.

Tips and tricks: Add little handwritten notes, substitutions, or 'secret ingredients'.

Step 5: Design the Layout

You can:

Use templates from programmes like Canva, Adobe InDesign, or Microsoft Word.

Hire a designer via platforms like Fiverr or Upwork for a polished look.

Include a dedication page, table of contents, and family tree if you wish.

Step 6: Choose a Printing Option

Here are popular UK-friendly options:

Blurb (blurb.co.uk) – Offers cookbook-specific templates and small-batch printing.

Mixam (mixam.co.uk) – Known for high-quality print and reasonable prices.

Photobox – More image-focused, great for photo-heavy books.

Local printers – If you want to support a nearby business and see paper samples in person.

Choose:

Binding: Spiral (great for kitchen use) or hardcover (for heirloom appeal).

Paper type: Opt for matt or silk finish to resist smudges in the kitchen.

Step 7: Print and Share

Order copies for family members.

Consider gifting the book at Christmas, birthdays, weddings, or family reunions.

If there's wider interest, you can even sell it through Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing or Etsy.

Bonus Ideas

Add a QR code to video clips of family members making the recipes.

Include a “Your Notes” section so people can personalise each recipe.

Create a digital version (PDF or e-book) for tech-savvy relatives.

Could Vitamin D Supplements Help You Live Three Years Longer? Here's What the Latest Research Says

There’s long been buzz around the health benefits of vitamin D — from supporting immune function to keeping bones strong. 

But now, recent reports suggest that taking vitamin D supplements could actually help extend your life by up to three years. 

That’s a bold claim — so what’s behind it, and should we all be reaching for the supplements?

What the Research Found

A new review of clinical studies and long-term health data has found that individuals with adequate levels of vitamin D — whether naturally or through supplementation — may have a lower risk of premature death. The researchers found a significant correlation between higher vitamin D levels and increased life expectancy, particularly in older adults.

In fact, the most eye-catching finding from the report is that regular vitamin D supplementation could potentially extend lifespan by around three years. While the exact mechanisms are still being studied, the vitamin appears to play a key role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers — all of which impact longevity.

Why Is Vitamin D So Important?

Often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” vitamin D is unique in that our bodies produce it when exposed to sunlight. It helps regulate calcium and phosphate in the body — essential for healthy bones, teeth, and muscles. But research increasingly shows its influence goes beyond just skeletal health. Low vitamin D levels have been linked to:

Weakened immune response

Increased inflammation

Higher risk of respiratory illnesses

Depression and cognitive decline

As we age, our ability to synthesise vitamin D from sunlight diminishes, and modern lifestyles — more time indoors, more sunscreen use — mean deficiency is becoming more common, even in younger populations.

Should You Start Taking Supplements?

If you live in the UK, you may already be familiar with NHS guidance recommending vitamin D supplements during the autumn and winter months, when sunlight exposure is limited. The general recommendation is 10 micrograms (400 IU) per day for most people.

However, before starting any new supplement regimen, it’s best to speak with your GP or a pharmacist — especially if you have underlying health conditions or take other medications. Too much vitamin D can lead to side effects like nausea, kidney problems, or calcium build-up.

Natural Ways to Boost Vitamin D

If you're not keen on popping pills, there are other ways to boost your levels naturally:

Get outside: Aim for short periods of sun exposure (15–30 minutes) on your face and arms a few times a week, ideally between April and September in the UK.

Eat vitamin D-rich foods: Fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), egg yolks, liver, and fortified foods (such as cereals and plant-based milks) are good dietary sources.

Check your levels: If you're concerned, a simple blood test can measure your vitamin D levels. Your GP can advise on testing and whether supplementation is necessary.

The Bottom Line

While the idea of extending your life by three years with a simple daily supplement sounds too good to be true, there’s growing evidence that maintaining healthy vitamin D levels could indeed be one of the keys to a longer, healthier life.

More research is needed to confirm the exact impact, but for now, ensuring you’re not deficient in vitamin D seems like a wise — and easy — step towards better health and longevity.

Have you had your vitamin D levels checked recently? Do you take supplements or prefer natural sources? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Celebrate National BBQ Week: Fire Up the Grill for Summer Fun

Nothing says the start of British summer quite like the smoky aroma of a sizzling barbecue. National BBQ Week is here, and it's the perfect excuse to gather your friends, fire up the grill, and enjoy delicious food in the great outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a barbecue beginner, this week is all about embracing alfresco dining and making the most of the sunshine.

When is National BBQ Week?

National BBQ Week 2025 runs from 26 May to 1 June, kicking off the summer season with a celebration of all things barbecued. First launched in 1997, the event aims to encourage people across the UK to embrace healthier, more adventurous BBQ cooking and enjoy outdoor entertaining.

How to Celebrate National BBQ Week

1. Host a Garden BBQ Party

Invite friends, family, or neighbours over for a relaxed barbecue gathering. Keep it simple with a few classics — think burgers, sausages, and veggie skewers — or go all-out with marinated ribs, grilled halloumi, or seafood platters.

2. Try Something New on the Grill

Move beyond bangers and burgers by experimenting with marinades, rubs, and international BBQ styles. Korean-style bulgogi, Jamaican jerk chicken, and Mediterranean grilled vegetables are all crowd-pleasers.

3. Support Local Butchers and Producers

Celebrate the best of British produce by sourcing your meat, fish, and veg from local farmers' markets and butchers. Many offer BBQ-ready options that are perfect for a quick but tasty meal.

4. Make it Plant-Based

BBQs aren’t just for meat-eaters. Grill portobello mushrooms, corn on the cob, aubergine, tofu, or even watermelon slices. Serve with vibrant salads and dips like chimichurri or harissa hummus.

5. Get the Kids Involved

Let little hands help with safe prep jobs, such as assembling veggie kebabs or mixing marinades. Turn it into a garden picnic with BBQ-friendly finger foods.

6. Don’t Forget the Drinks

Pair your BBQ dishes with refreshing drinks — think Pimm’s, craft beer, iced tea, or homemade lemonade. Or set up a DIY drinks station with fruit-infused water and spritzers.

BBQ Safety Tips

Always keep an eye on the grill and ensure it’s placed on a flat, stable surface.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure everything is cooked safely.

Keep raw meat separate from cooked items and salads.

Have a bucket of water or sand nearby just in case.

Share the Sizzle

If you're celebrating BBQ Week, share your photos and recipes on social media with the hashtag #NationalBBQWeek. It’s a great way to connect with fellow foodies and get inspired by what others are cooking up.

Whether it’s a laid-back weekend grill or a midweek cookout, National BBQ Week is your cue to dust off the tongs and enjoy one of the best parts of British summertime. So grab your apron, light the charcoal, and make it a week to remember.

Near 40,000 emergency food parcels provided across Bristol and South Glos as need remains high

38,700 emergency food parcels provided to people facing hunger by Bristol and South Glos Foodbanks in the past 12 months.

Worryingly over 14,400 of the parcels were provided for children in the last year.

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

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

Over 38,700 emergency food parcels were provided to people facing hardship between April 2024 and March 2025, with 14,400 of these provided for children, according to new figures from North Bristol & South Glos Foodbank released today.

The three Trussell food banks operating across Bristol and South Gloucestershire have together seen a 4% slight decrease in the number of emergency food parcels distributed compared to last year. Despite this slight dip, the area has seen persistently high levels of food bank need over the last five years, and a 62% increase when compared with the same period in 2019 - 2020.

Ellen Wood, Manager of North Bristol & South Glos Foodbank, Told That's Food and Drink: “We've seen a slight dip in food parcels this year, which shows our collective efforts are making a difference. 

"But many people across Bristol and South Glos still face hunger. Behind these numbers are real people - parents who have to skip meals so their children can eat, elderly people in cold homes, and working families who can't stretch their wages far enough.

"We're actively developing access to advice and services that will help people move away from needing emergency food, but we're concerned that upcoming changes to disabled benefits will increase pressure on food banks and reverse our progress. We need both immediate community support through donations and long-term policy changes that ensure everyone has enough money for life's essentials.”

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

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

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

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

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

Visit nbsg.foodbank.org.uk to find out how you can help today.

You can find out how many emergency food parcels were provided to people facing hardship in your local area on the Trussell website: nbsg.foodbank.org.uk/postcode

Oato makes a wonderful Father's Day gift and more, besides

Oato oat milk is delicious British made Oat Milk. is available via milk rounds for a 6 month or 12 month subscription for a daily delivery of fresh, delicious oaty goodness.

The full Oato range (Barista Whole; Chocoloato; Strawberry Oatshake; Caffe Latte) is available fresh to your doorstep via the many milk rounds they have partnered with, Modern Milkman, Milk & More, etc! 

My wife and I have our favourites. I love the Strawberry Oatshake (I can taste the real strawberry flavour) and my wife absolutely adores the Caffe Latte flavour, which she describes as the "best Caffe Latte I have tried in years!"

So, organise a Father's Day gift of daily Oato deliveries direct to his doorstep. However, you'll probably have to order more of the delicious Oato milks for everyone else in the house. And here's another great point in the favour of Oato: Oato actually comes in real glass milk bottles!

To learn more or to sort out your orders please visit them here https://www.oato.co.uk.

Incidentally Oato is also now available at over 700 Sainsbury stores all over the UK in 1 litre cartons.