From Bike to Bottle: One Water Launches Travel Trade Sales Incentive Tour as World Duty Free Donations Hit £2.95m Milestone

Ethical water brand One Water has launched its annual Travel Trade Awareness Tour in partnership with Avolta, in its World Duty Free stores which are in 38 locations across the UK, including most UK airports.

With over £2.95 million raised to date through One Water sales in World Duty Free stores, the campaign continues to transform lives by funding clean water projects in areas like rural Malawi.

Funds raised via sales of One Water bottles at UK airports have contributed towards the rehabilitation of broken water points, the installation of gravity-fed and solar-powered systems, and restoring water access to health clinics and schools. These efforts are especially vital in the wake of recent cyclones that devastated Malawian villages, washing away homes and contaminating water sources.

The campaign's launch marks the return of One Water founder Duncan Goose's annual motorcycle tour, a purpose-driven road trip visiting World Duty Free stores and offices across the UK. Riding the same Honda Africa Twin motorbike he used during a life-changing round-the-world trip in 1998, a journey that inspired the creation of One Water, Duncan meets frontline staff to thank them and share real-world updates on how their work contributes to life-saving water projects in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Duncan Goose told That's Food and Drink: “We want World Duty Free's incredible staff to see how their work is changing lives. Every bottle sold brings us closer to a world where no one is left without clean water. 

"This year, we have talked a lot about the concept of Do One Good Thing - where one small action can change lives. The simple choice of choosing One when you are travelling will have a ripple effect across the world.” 

As part of the incentive, the top eight One Water sellers across Avolta's World Duty Free store network will win a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Malawi this November. The immersive trip includes site visits to local water projects, meetings with NGO partners, traditional Malawian hospitality, and a visit to a National Park.

Added Eve Fifer, Commercial Director at World Duty Free: “Our teams are incredibly passionate about supporting One Water and sharing its mission with the millions of travellers who visit our stores. It's a real highlight for them when Duncan takes to the road and visits our stores and offices, sharing his inspirational message with both staff and customers. This campaign is our chance to spotlight the real impact behind every bottle.”

World Duty Free was one of the first UK retailers to support the One Water brand, stocking it since 2006 in UK airports, its UK based Eurotunnel store, and its store at St Pancras train station, as well as on P&O ferries. 

Follow Duncan's journey here: @onewateruk 

Duncan Goose's schedule

03.06.25: Launch Bedfont Lakes

04.06.25: Manchester Liquor Roadshow

05.06.25: CDC (am), St. Pancras (pm)

06.06.25: Eurotunnel (am), Southend (pm)

10.06.25: Liquor Roadshow London

11.06.25: Liquor Roadshow London

12.06.25: Stansted (am), Norwich, (pm)

16.06.25: Birmingham (am), East Midlands (pm)

17.06.25: Heathrow T5 (am), Heathrow T4 (pm)

18.06.25: Heathrow T2 (am), Heathrow T3 (pm)

23.06.25: Humberside (am), Leeds Bradford (pm)

24.06.25: Teeside (am), Newcastle (pm) 

25.06.25: Edinburgh (am)

30.06.25: Glasgow (am), Prestwick (pm)

01.07.25: Belfast (am)

02.07.25: Manchester (am), Liverpool (pm)

07.07.25: Cardiff (pm)

08.07.25: Bristol (am), Exeter (pm)

09.07.25: Bournemouth (am), Southampton (pm)

14.07.25: Lowfield

15.07.25: Gatwick 

16.07.25: Heathrow

16.07.25: Heathrow

FACTFILE:-

Founded in 2004 by Duncan Goose, One Water is an award-winning ethical water brand that donates its profits to fund safe, sustainable water projects in Africa and beyond. 

The organisation is a UK B Corp, a signatory to the UN Global Compact, and committed to carbon reduction. Its diverse range includes 100% recycled plastic bottles, aluminium refillables, cans, Tetra Pak cartons, and more.

Learn more at www.onewater.org

The Beefy Boys Announce New Restaurant in Oxford

Oxfordshire's burger scene is about to get beefed up with a very welcome serious upgrade! 

Because The Beefy Boys, known for serving some of the world's finest acclaimed burgers, have announced the opening of their fifth restaurant which is at Westgate Oxford, this September.

Following smash-hit openings in Hereford, Shrewsbury, Cheltenham, and Bath, The Beefy Boys will bring their award-winning burgers and American-style barbecue food to a brand-new crowd, taking up a prime location at Westgate.

Founded by four childhood best friends and born from a backyard BBQ that got 'out of hand' in 2011, The Beefy Boys have quickly become legends on the UK food scene. 

Their accolades include a top four finish at the 2024 World Food Championships in Indianapolis and winning Best Burger and Best Burger Chef at the National Burger Awards in 2023. 

They also released their debut cookbook in 2024, From Backyard BBQs to World-Class Burgers, which topped the Amazon Bestsellers list and hit #3 on the Sunday Times charts.

Famed for their smashed patties, indulgent flavours, and the highest quality grass-fed Herefordshire beef, The Beefy Boys will offer Oxfordshire burger lovers an unforgettable first rate dining experience.

Their menu is stacked with fan favourites including the classic Beefy Boy Burger, the award-winning Oklahoma Onion Boy and Dirty Boy, and the bold Peanut Butter and Jelly Boy. 

Besides their iconic burgers, The Beefy Boys are also justifiably famous for their crowd-pleasing sides and barbecue classics. 

Diners will be able to savour Pastrami Fries, Millionaire Fries – topped with truffle oil, parmesan, and chipotle mayo, and gooey Mac & Cheese Balls.

For those with an appetite for something different, the menu also features options like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, Buffalo & Blue Cheese Chicken Wings, and even vegetarian and vegan-friendly creations such as the Beanie Boy and Leafy Boy burgers.

Speaking about the new launch, co-founder Murf told That's Food and Drink: “Oxford's always been high up on our list of dream restaurant locations. It's a city absolutely filled with culture, energy, and food lovers, so we can't wait to fire up the grill and introduce our signature smashed patties and dirty burgers to this amazing city.”

For more information on The Beefy Boys and their upcoming Oxford restaurant opening, please visit their website: https://thebeefyboys.com

Got Food Allergies? Then You Need The Allergy & Free from Show

The Allergy & Free From Show in partnership with Koko Dairy Free returns to Olympia this month, June 21st - 22nd. 

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

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

NEW Show highlights include a Mindfulness Zone sponsored by Arla LactoFREE with practical mindfulness sessions and Allergies in the Home in partnership with Allergy UK, which showcases household solutions for allergy sufferers, in addition to a fun and interactive Family Trail. These complement the event's popular features such as Balmonds Skin Clinic with advice, Q&As and product demonstrations, plus the Family Zone, Cafés sponsored by NOMO, the Meet and Greet area and a VIP Blogger Lounge sponsored by Kirsty's.

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

Timetable of Speakers

Saturday June 21st

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

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

The Live Kitchen sponsored by Tesco (live demonstrations)

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

The Education Stage sponsored by Ready2React (educative talks)

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

Sunday June 22nd

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

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

The Live Kitchen sponsored by Tesco (live demonstrations)

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

The Education Stage sponsored by Ready2React (educative talks)

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

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

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

Allergy & Free From Show #allergyandfreefromshow

The Allergy & Free From Show is where people with allergies can gather to find thousands of free from products, from household names to exciting new start-ups. With learning experiences, interactive features and fun activities for the whole family.

Event Highlights Video 2024: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ix5QW8EZ4-k

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

https://allergyshow.co.uk

Vegan and Soya-Free: Plant-Based Options for Those with a Soya Allergy

Following a vegan diet is already a thoughtful and mindful lifestyle choice, but navigating it with a soya allergy can make things more complicated. 

Soya is a staple in many vegan products—from tofu and tempeh to soya milk and protein powders. 

However, being vegan and soya-free is entirely possible—with a little extra planning and ingredient awareness.

In this post, we’ll explore vegan-friendly foods that are naturally soya-free, common pitfalls to avoid, and some delicious alternatives you can incorporate into your plant-based diet.

Why Is Soya So Common in Vegan Food?

Soya is high in protein, versatile, and widely available, which is why it’s often used as a meat and dairy substitute. You’ll find it in:

Tofu and tempeh

Soya milk, yoghurt, and cheese

Vegan meat alternatives (like mince or burgers)

Protein bars and powders

Some processed snacks and baked goods

For those with a soya allergy or sensitivity, this can feel limiting—but don’t worry, there are plenty of other nutritious, satisfying options.

Soya-Free Vegan Protein Sources

Protein is often the biggest concern, but there are several excellent soya-free sources of plant protein:

Legumes (other than soya)

Lentils (red, green, brown)

Chickpeas

Black beans

Kidney beans

Butter beans

These are perfect for curries, soups, stews, burgers, and salads.

Nuts and Seeds

Almonds, cashews, walnuts

Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia, flaxseed

Great in baking, smoothies, and snacks—or for making your own plant-based milk.

Vegetables

While lower in protein, some vegetables like spinach, peas, broccoli, and sweetcorn offer small boosts to your intake.

Whole Grains

Quinoa (a complete protein)

Oats

Brown rice

Buckwheat

Amaranth

Pairing grains with beans or lentils can help round out your amino acid profile.

Mushrooms

Varieties like portobello, oyster, and shiitake are rich in flavour and make great meat alternatives.

Soya-Free Vegan Dairy Alternatives

Thankfully, the market has expanded to include plenty of non-soya dairy substitutes:

Milk Alternatives

Oat milk (UK favourite! We have some in our fridge)

Almond milk

Coconut milk

Rice milk

Hemp milk

Cashew milk

Always check for added vitamins and calcium.

Cheese & Yoghurt Alternatives

Look for coconut-based or nut-based products (like those from brands such as Violife, Koko, or Nush).

Watch Out For Hidden Soya

Even with whole foods, it’s worth reading labels carefully. Soya can crop up in:

“Natural flavours” or “lecithin” (check if it’s soya lecithin)

Bread and bakery products

Vegan convenience meals

Chocolate and snacks

Many UK brands now label major allergens clearly, so look for “contains soya” or “soya-free” statements.

Soya-Free Vegan Meat Alternatives

If you miss the convenience of vegan meats, look for these soya-free options:

Seitan: Made from wheat gluten (avoid if coeliac or gluten-sensitive)

Jackfruit: Ideal for pulled “pork” or taco-style fillings

Mushroom-based products: Some brands use fungi as the base for burger patties or sausages

Pea protein: Some vegan meats are now made from yellow pea protein instead of soya

Brands like THIS™, Future Farm, and Heck (check labels) offer options in UK supermarkets.

Meal Ideas for Soya-Free Vegans

Here are a few simple, satisfying meals to try:

Chickpea & spinach curry with coconut milk

Lentil shepherd’s pie topped with mashed potato

Stuffed sweet potatoes with black beans and avocado

Oat and nut energy balls for on-the-go snacking

Grilled portobello burgers with vegan mayo and salad

Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables and tahini dressing

Final Thoughts

Living soya-free and vegan may feel like a niche path, but it’s a completely achievable and nutritious lifestyle. By focusing on whole foods, checking labels, and experimenting with new ingredients, you can build a varied and satisfying menu without soya.

With growing awareness of allergies and dietary needs, many UK brands and eateries are expanding their allergen-friendly vegan offerings—so expect even more soya-free options in the near future.

Are you following a soya-free vegan diet? Share your favourite meals or product recommendations in the comments—we’d love to hear what’s working for you!

What to Do If You Need to Change Your Establishment’s Menu

Whether you're running a bustling café, a fine dining restaurant, or a cosy pub, there comes a time when your menu needs a refresh. 

Perhaps customer tastes have shifted, ingredients have become harder to source, or you're simply looking to keep things exciting and seasonal. 

Whatever the reason, changing your menu is a big decision—and one that requires careful planning.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you need to change your establishment’s menu:

1. Identify the Reason for the Change

Start by asking why the menu needs updating. Common reasons include:

Falling sales or customer feedback

Rising costs of ingredients

Seasonal availability

Shifting brand focus or target market

New food trends or dietary requirements (e.g. more vegan/gluten-free options)

Understanding the motivation behind the change helps guide the type of changes you make—whether it's a full overhaul or minor tweaks.

2. Review What’s Working—and What Isn’t

Before scrapping any dishes, analyse your current menu:

Top sellers: What do customers rave about?

Low performers: Which dishes are consistently left untouched?

Profit margins: Which items bring in the most revenue after food costs?

Prep time and complexity: Are some items too labour-intensive?

Keep your strong performers, and use insights from underperforming dishes to guide your updates.

3. Involve Your Team

Your kitchen and front-of-house staff have invaluable insight. Involve them in brainstorming new ideas or adapting current offerings. Chefs may suggest ingredient substitutions that maintain quality but cut costs. Servers can relay common customer requests or complaints.

You’ll get better buy-in—and potentially brilliant ideas—when your team is part of the process.

4. Research Trends and Local Preferences

Food trends can spark inspiration, but always consider your core audience. A fine dining menu in London may benefit from different tweaks than a country pub in Yorkshire.

Sources of insight:

Social media and foodie blogs

Competitor menus

Seasonal produce calendars

Customer surveys or comment cards

You might discover that plant-based options, heritage ingredients, or hyper-local sourcing are what your customers crave.

5. Update Your Suppliers and Costings

Menu changes affect your supply chain. Contact suppliers to check availability, lead times, and pricing for any new ingredients. It’s also essential to update your costing sheets to ensure new dishes align with your desired profit margins.

Don’t forget to factor in training, waste reduction, and storage space too.

6. Test New Dishes

Trial new items before launching them fully. This could involve:

Staff tastings for honest feedback

Limited-time specials to gauge customer interest

Small-scale launches during quieter hours

This testing phase helps iron out issues with portion size, prep time, or presentation.

7. Update Your Branding and Marketing Materials

When the new menu is ready, make sure all your materials reflect the change:

Printed menus and chalkboards

Website and online ordering platforms

Social media profiles

Third-party listings (e.g. Google, TripAdvisor, Just Eat)

Tease the new dishes in advance on social media and email newsletters to build excitement.

8. Train Your Team Thoroughly

A successful menu rollout depends on your staff. Provide detailed training on:

New recipes and cooking methods

Ingredients (particularly allergens)

Presentation standards

How to confidently describe dishes to customers

Well-informed, enthusiastic staff can make a huge difference to customer experience.

9. Gather Feedback Post-Launch

After launching the new menu, ask for customer feedback—formally or informally. Monitor sales patterns and reviews. Be ready to make small adjustments as needed.

Sometimes a dish that looks great on paper doesn’t work in practice. Stay flexible.

10. Celebrate the Change

Highlight your new menu with a launch event, social media campaign, or feature in the local press. Reward regulars with a sneak peek or tasting session. Use the change as a positive story that reinforces your brand’s creativity and commitment to quality.

Final Thoughts

Changing your menu is more than swapping out a few dishes—it’s a strategic move that can boost profitability, improve customer satisfaction, and re-energise your team. With proper planning and communication, a refreshed menu can set your establishment up for success for months (or seasons) to come.

How to Promote Your Eating Place on a Budget: Clever & Cost-Effective Ideas

Running a café, restaurant, or takeaway can be immensely rewarding, but marketing often feels like a luxury reserved for businesses with deep pockets. 

The good news? You don’t need a big budget to get your eating place noticed. 

With some creativity, consistency, and local know-how, you can generate buzz without burning through your savings.

Here’s how to promote your food business as cheaply as possible—while still getting real results.

1. Leverage Social Media—Properly

Social media is free to use and incredibly powerful if done right. Focus on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, where food visuals thrive.

Post high-quality photos of your dishes (natural lighting works wonders).

Share behind-the-scenes content—chef prepping, daily specials being made, or funny kitchen moments.

Use relevant hashtags (#FoodieUK, #LondonEats, #HiddenGems) and geotags.

Run giveaways (e.g. “Tag a mate for a chance to win lunch for two!”).

Pro Tip: Post consistently. Even three times a week can build engagement.

2. Claim and Optimise Your Google Business Profile

If people can’t find you online, they won’t visit. Claim your free Google Business Profile and make sure all the details—opening hours, location, menu, photos—are up to date.

Encourage happy customers to leave a review, as strong ratings help your listing appear in local searches (especially “restaurants near me”).

3. Partner with Local Influencers or Bloggers

No need to aim for massive influencers. Micro-influencers (1k–10k followers) in your area often have a more loyal, engaged audience.

Offer them a free meal or sample in exchange for a post or honest review. Look for food bloggers or local lifestyle content creators—you’ll often find them by searching hashtags or location tags on Instagram or TikTok.

4. Offer Referral Incentives

Word-of-mouth is powerful—and free. Give your regulars a reason to bring others.

Example ideas:

“Bring a friend and get 10% off your next visit.”

“Refer a mate, get a free dessert.”

Simple, trackable, and effective.

5. Join Local Facebook Groups and Forums

Local community groups (e.g., town-specific Facebook groups, Nextdoor, or local forums) are excellent places to build awareness.

Be genuinely helpful—don’t just spam adverts. Share special offers, promote local events you're part of, or answer questions about places to eat in the area.

6. Collaborate with Other Small Businesses

Is there a local brewery, coffee roaster, or farm shop nearby? Cross-promote each other’s products or create a joint offer.

Example:

“Enjoy a slice of our homemade cake with locally roasted coffee from Smith & Sons Roasters—only £5 this week.”

You tap into each other’s audiences without spending extra.

7. Host Low-Cost Events or Pop-Ups

Even on a small scale, events get people talking. Think:

Live acoustic music nights

Board game evenings

Local artist pop-ups

Tasting nights or “secret menu” days

These give people a reason to visit—and share the experience on social media.

8. Create a Loyalty Card or Email List

Encourage repeat visits with a simple stamp card or digital loyalty scheme.

Also, collect email addresses (with permission!) and send out monthly updates featuring offers, seasonal menus, or events. Tools like Mailchimp offer free email marketing for small lists.

9. Get Listed on Local Directories and Food Apps

Make sure your eating place is listed on:

TripAdvisor

Yelp

Local tourism websites

Delivery platforms (if you offer takeout)

Many are free to join or offer freemium listings.

10. Don’t Underestimate Good Signage and Word of Mouth

Sometimes, the simplest strategies are the most effective.

Make sure your signage is:

Clear

Well-lit

Visible from the street

And train your team to give excellent service—because a recommendation from a satisfied customer beats any advert.

Final Thoughts

Promoting your eating place doesn’t have to cost the earth. With a little creativity and consistency, you can build a loyal customer base, grow your visibility, and stand out—without spending a fortune.

Start small, track what works, and stay connected to your local community. That’s where real, sustainable success begins.

How to Organise a Quiz Night at Your Pub, Café, Restaurant or Bar – and Raise Funds for Charity

Are you looking to add a lively and rewarding event to your venue’s calendar? 

Hosting a quiz night can draw a great crowd, boost sales, and – best of all – raise money for a good cause. 

Whether you run a cosy café, a bustling bar, or a welcoming pub, restaurant or a hotel, here’s how to pull off a successful charity quiz night that your guests will talk about for weeks.

1. Choose Your Cause

Start by selecting a charity that resonates with you, your team, or your customers. Whether it's a local food bank, a health-related charity, or a national appeal, make it personal. If you're unsure, ask your regulars or run a quick poll on social media.

Tip: Reach out to the chosen charity – they might offer promotional support or donate prizes.

2. Pick the Right Night

Midweek evenings like Tuesdays or Wednesdays tend to work well – they’re quiet enough not to disrupt weekend trade but still busy enough to attract interest. Avoid clashing with major events like big sports matches.

3. Plan the Format

Decide on your structure:

Number of rounds: Typically 5–8 rounds, with 8–10 questions each.

Topics: Mix general knowledge with themed rounds (e.g. film, music, sport, local history).

Bonus rounds: Include a picture round or music clips.

Tie-breaker: Always have a tricky final question just in case.

Optional: Introduce a fun twist like a “Beat the Bartender” round!

4. Set Entry Fees and Fundraising Goals

Charge a small fee per player or team (e.g. £2 per person or £10 per team), with all proceeds going to your chosen charity. You could also include a donation box or raffle on the night to boost fundraising.

5. Promote the Event

Advertise your quiz night across all your channels:

Posters and flyers in your venue

Facebook and Instagram posts/stories

Event listings on your website or local forums

Email newsletters

Mention the charity, prizes, and how people can book.

Pro tip: Add a QR code on posters that links to your booking form or event page.

6. Sort the Practicalities

Make sure you have:

Pens, answer sheets, and clipboards

A mic and speaker system (or good vocal projection!)

Tables arranged with space between teams

A scorekeeper or helper if possible

A running order with clear timings

7. Secure Some Prizes

Ask local businesses to donate items or vouchers in return for a shout-out on the night. Popular prizes include:

Bottles of wine or spirits

Gift vouchers

Free meals

Hampers or goody bags

Even “booby prizes” for the lowest-scoring team can add humour.

8. Host with Energy and Fairness

The quizmaster sets the tone. Be friendly, clear, and fair. A bit of banter can go a long way, but always keep things inclusive and light-hearted. Encourage teams to grab drinks and snacks during the breaks – it’s good for business!

9. Say Thanks and Share the Results

After the event, thank everyone who took part, especially donors and volunteers. Share how much was raised and post pictures from the night on social media. If you plan to run another quiz, tease the next date.

Final Thought

Quiz nights aren’t just great fun – they bring communities together and show that your business cares. Whether it’s your first time hosting or part of a regular calendar, a well-run quiz night can build buzz, fill seats, and make a real difference.

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.