Last-Minute Tasty Treats for Father’s Day Gifting

Forgot Father’s Day is this weekend? Don’t panic. No. Really don't panic. You've got this! Because there’s still time to surprise Dad with something delicious that doesn’t scream “last-minute panic buy.” 

Whether he’s a fan of savoury snacks, sweet bites, or a cheeky tipple, here’s your guide to easy, crowd-pleasing foodie gifts you can still source in time.

1. Local Deli or Farm Shop Hamper

Pop down to your nearest deli, butcher or farm shop and ask if they offer ready-made or build-your-own hampers. Think:

Artisan cheeses and cured meats

Pickles and chutneys

Small-batch chocolates or fudge

Craft beer or local cider bottles

Wrap it all up in a rustic box or reusable basket for a charming, low-effort present with high taste factor.

2. Craft Beer or Ale Selection

Skip the supermarket multipack and head to your local bottle shop for a hand-picked selection of craft beers, real ales, or even mushroom-infused stouts (a nod to emerging trends!). Many independent shops will box them up for you—some even offer same-day delivery.

Bonus idea: Pair it with a personalised pint glass or beer snacks like gourmet pork scratchings or spiced nuts.

3. Gourmet Subscription Box (With an Instant Printable Voucher)

Running truly out of time? Sign Dad up for a foodie subscription box—options include:

Cheese clubs

Bacon-of-the-month

Hot sauce tastings

Charcuterie boards

Chocolate artisan tasters

Most services offer instant e-gift vouchers you can print out and pop in a card. Sorted in under five minutes!

4. DIY Treat Jar or Snack Tackle Box

A fun one for kids to help with! Grab a large jar or sectioned lunchbox and fill it with Dad’s favourites:

Retro sweets

Mini whisky bottles

Fancy crisps or pretzels

Coffee sachets or tea pyramids

Jerky or biltong

Label it “Dad’s Emergency Snack Kit” for extra charm.

5. Bakeries & Dessert Counters – Grab and Go Goodies

Swing by your local bakery for:

Father’s Day cupcakes

Brownie boxes

Fruit pies

Doughnut bundles

Many supermarkets also stock limited-edition themed desserts if you're really cutting it fine. Pair with a fresh bag of ground coffee or a luxury hot chocolate tin for a complete mini-gift.

6. Cook-It-For-Him Hamper

If your dad is more of a homebody, how about gifting the ingredients for a Sunday feast—with you doing the cooking?

Ideas include:

Steak night kit (steaks, spice rub, sauce, beer)

Big breakfast bundle (eggs, bacon, hash browns, sourdough, beans)

BBQ-in-a-box (burgers, buns, condiments, corn on the cob)

It’s thoughtful, personalised—and delicious.

Final Tip: Presentation is Everything

Even the simplest foodie gift looks more impressive with nice wrapping or a hand-written tag. Use kraft paper, string, tissue, or a gift bag to elevate your last-minute marvel.

So don’t stress! Go delicious instead. With a little flavour and a lot of heart, your Father’s Day gift can still be the best thing he gets this year.

Future Trend to Watch: Real Ales Brewed with Superfoods (Yes, Including Mushrooms!)

Craft beer fans and real ale aficionados, brace yourselves: the next frontier in brewing is all about health-conscious hops. 

As the lines between wellness and indulgence continue to blur, a quietly bubbling trend is emerging: Real ales brewed with superfoods, including adaptogenic mushrooms.

It might sound like something from a sci-fi bar menu, but this is one to watch.

The Evolution of Real Ale

Real ale has long stood for tradition—natural fermentation, live yeast, and a devotion to quality ingredients. But even tradition adapts. As drinkers become more mindful of what they consume, brewers are responding with innovative recipes that promise not just taste, but potential health perks too.

Enter: the superfood pint.

What Are Superfoods Doing in Ale?

Superfoods like turmeric, goji berries, beetroot, and now medicinal mushrooms such as lion’s mane, reishi, and chaga are making their way into brew kettles. These ingredients are being chosen not just for their nutrient profiles but also for the earthy, herbal, or spicy notes they can bring to a beer’s flavour profile.

A few brewers have begun experimenting with:

Reishi Stouts – adding a slightly bitter, woodsy edge that complements roasted malts

Lion’s Mane Pale Ales – said to offer both a nootropic kick and a subtle umami depth

Chaga Porters – pairing antioxidant-rich fungi with rich, velvety body

Beetroot Amber Ales – boosting antioxidants and providing a shock of natural red hue

Wellness Meets Pub Culture?

While the idea of a “healthy beer” may sound somewhat contradictory, it taps into a broader shift. Today’s drinkers are looking for more than just alcohol: They want flavour, story, and something that aligns with their lifestyle. With the rise in alcohol-free and low-ABV beers, the idea of functional ales, those brewed with beneficial ingredients, is a natural next step.

Craft brewers know their audiences. A pint that’s both quirky and potentially good for your brain or your body? It’s the kind of niche product that could become the next taproom talking point.

Do the Benefits Hold Up?

Let’s be honest—no one’s claiming a reishi ale is going to cure anything. The amounts of these superfoods used in brewing are unlikely to replicate the effects of concentrated supplements. But what they do offer is a new way to explore flavour, sustainability, and storytelling around ingredients.

At the very least, it's a more wholesome twist than chucking in food colouring or novelty gimmicks.

The Bottom Line

Superfood ales won’t replace your greens, but they might just reframe how we think about what’s in our glass. As brewers push boundaries, expect to see more crossovers between the world of wellness and the world of real ale.

Would you try a mushroom pale ale or a turmeric wheat beer? Watch this space—your local might be serving one sooner than you think.

Superfood Mushrooms: Health Hype or Culinary Gold?

Mushrooms have long had a place on our plates, whether fried with breakfast or tossed into pasta, but lately, they're taking centre stage as “superfood” some would say supercool, ingredients in both kitchens and supplement aisles. 

From lion’s mane lattes to reishi capsules, these fungi are being hailed as everything from brain boosters to immunity warriors. But what’s the science behind the trend—and do they really work?

The Rise of the Functional Mushroom

Functional mushrooms—those thought to offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition—have seen a sharp rise in popularity. Food brands, cafés, and health stores are embracing these fungi not just for flavour but for their supposed medicinal benefits.

Here are a few of the stars of the movement:

Lion’s Mane – Known for its shaggy appearance, it’s linked to improved cognitive function, focus, and even nerve regeneration.

Reishi – A woody, bitter mushroom often used in teas or tinctures, it’s prized for calming properties and immune support.

Chaga – Often brewed as a tea, this mushroom is rich in antioxidants and touted for reducing inflammation.

Cordyceps – Once rare and found only in the Himalayas, it’s now cultivated and used to support energy and stamina.

Turkey Tail – Rich in polysaccharides, it’s been studied for its immune-boosting effects, especially during recovery from illness.

Culinary Cool Factor

Beyond powders and pills, chefs are embracing these fungi for their flavour, texture, and novelty. Lion’s mane can mimic lobster or crab when sautéed, making it a hit with vegans and foodies alike. Reishi and chaga are turning up in broths, hot chocolate blends, and even ice cream.

Some venues now offer mushroom-forward menus, tapping into interest in foraged and sustainable ingredients. Mushroom coffee and adaptogenic smoothies are becoming as common as matcha or turmeric lattes.

Do They Actually Work?

Here’s where it gets a little murky.

While some small studies and centuries of traditional use support the benefits of these mushrooms, the evidence in modern clinical research is still developing. Many of the claims come from animal studies or lab research rather than large-scale human trials.

That said, there’s growing scientific interest, and early studies are promising—especially for lion’s mane in cognitive decline, or reishi and turkey tail in supporting immunity. Still, dosage, preparation, and consistency matter, and not all products are created equal.

Final Thoughts

If you’re curious, incorporating supercool mushrooms into your diet is generally safe for most people and might offer benefits—plus, it adds variety and earthiness to your meals. However, they’re not miracle cures, and anyone with health conditions or on medication should consult a GP before diving into mushroom supplements.

Whether you sauté them in butter, sip them in your brew, or sprinkle them in your smoothie, these fungi are definitely more than just fungus—they’re a flavourful, fascinating trend worth watching.

How to Manage Food Allergies: Tips for Every Venue

1. Train Your Team Thoroughly

All staff—from kitchen porters to head chefs and front-of-house—should know:

What the 14 allergens are

How cross-contamination happens

What to do in an emergency

Regular refresher training is a must.

2. Label Clearly and Transparently

For chip shops, cafés and takeaways:

Use clear signage: “Please ask about allergens”

Have ingredient sheets or digital records easily accessible

Label pre-packed foods with full allergen info

For restaurants and hotels:

Include allergen info on menus or provide a separate allergen matrix

Waitstaff must be trained to answer questions accurately and check with the kitchen if unsure

3. Keep Cross-Contamination in Check

In smaller kitchens, it can be tricky—but not impossible. Best practices include:

Using separate utensils, boards and pans for allergen-free orders

Cleaning surfaces and hands thoroughly

Colour-coding tools and storage

Having clearly marked zones or times for preparing allergen-free dishes

4. Ask—Don’t Assume

Make it standard for staff to ask customers:

“Do you or anyone in your group have any allergies?”

This question signals that you care and helps avoid misunderstandings.

5. Have a Plan for Emergencies

Every venue should have:

A written allergy protocol

Staff who know how to recognise an allergic reaction (e.g. swelling, difficulty breathing)

A clear process for calling emergency services

6. Use Tech and Signage Wisely

Apps, QR codes, digital menus, and allergen kiosks are becoming more common in modern venues. But remember—technology must support human interaction, not replace it. Always back up digital info with trained staff.

A Safer, More Inclusive Experience

Customers with food allergies are loyal and appreciative of businesses that make the effort to keep them safe. A little care and preparation go a long way in building trust and ensuring positive reviews and repeat visits.

No matter your venue's size, style or price point, making your food allergy policy visible and robust is not just a legal duty — it’s an essential part of excellent hospitality.

Want to improve your allergen handling?

Consider accredited training schemes like:

FSA Allergen Training (Free Online) https://allergytraining.food.gov.uk

Allergy UK’s Allergy Aware Scheme

Level 2 Award in Food Allergen Awareness (CIEH, Highfield etc.)

Make Your Venue Unforgettable: Commission Local Art to Elevate Your Space

In today’s competitive hospitality scene, it’s no longer enough to offer great food and drink, your visual identity and atmosphere matter just as much. 

Whether you run a laid-back coffee shop, a country pub, a bustling city bar or a high-end hotel restaurant, one powerful way to stand out from the crowd is by commissioning local artists to create original works for your premises.

Why Commission Local Art?

Art creates atmosphere. It sparks conversation. It gives your space personality. But beyond aesthetics, choosing to feature original artwork by local artists also tells a story — one of community, creativity, and character.

Benefits include:

A unique, memorable environment that customers want to return to

Support for the local creative economy

A talking point on social media and review sites

Potential for collaborative promotions with the artists themselves

Ideas for Artistic Additions

There are countless ways to integrate local creativity into your venue:

1. Feature Walls and Murals

Transform a blank wall into a stunning mural or hand-painted motif that captures your brand’s vibe, history or setting. A seaside bistro might feature a whimsical coastal mural, while a historic pub could host a mural depicting the town’s past.

2. Tabletop or Menu Artwork

Commission an artist to design bespoke illustrations for your menus, chalkboards or even directly onto tabletops. This works beautifully for seasonal dishes, cocktails, or tasting boards.

3. Sculpture and Installations

For hotels, larger restaurants, or garden seating areas, consider sculptures, hanging mobiles or mixed-media installations made from local or recycled materials.

4. Rotating Art Exhibitions

Give your walls a dynamic feel by hosting a monthly or quarterly rotating art display featuring local painters or photographers. You’ll freshen your space regularly and attract art-loving clientele.

How to Find the Right Artists

Connect with local art colleges and universities – emerging artists are often keen for exposure and commissions.

Visit art fairs, open studios, or local galleries – these are great places to meet artists in person and see their work.

Check out community Facebook groups, Instagram, or Etsy UK – many artists showcase their portfolios online.

Reach out to your local council or arts charity – they often have directories of local creatives.

Collaborate for a Win-Win

Many artists are open to collaboration beyond just creating art. They may help with:

Co-hosting launch events or live painting evenings

Promoting your venue on their social media channels

Offering exclusive merchandise or prints sold through your venue

Make sure to credit their work with signage and online mentions — it's a sign of respect and adds authenticity to the story behind your venue’s look.

Marketing Magic

Beautiful, original art makes your premises more Instagram-worthy, more shareable, and more likely to be remembered. Feature the creative process on your social media, introduce the artist, and use hashtags like:

#LocalArt

#SupportLocalArtists

#ArtInHospitality

#MadeIn[YourTown]

Encourage visitors to tag you when they snap a photo beside the artwork.

Final Thought

Art and hospitality have always gone hand in hand — from hand-painted pub signs to modern wall murals in artisan cafés. By bringing local talent into your décor, you’re doing more than decorating — you’re making your venue part of your area’s cultural identity.

Let your walls speak for you. Commission local art — and turn your space into a masterpiece.

Would you like me to generate an image of a stylish venue featuring unique local art or mural work? I can also draft a downloadable flyer or Instagram post for businesses to promote their new artwork.

Serve Up a Slice of History: How Sharing Your Venue's Past Can Attract More Customers

In the world of hospitality, atmosphere and storytelling are just as important as food and drink. 

One often-overlooked way to set your venue apart and deepen its appeal is to explore the history of your building — and then share that story with your customers.

Whether you operate from a centuries-old coaching inn, a converted Victorian shopfront, or a former factory now reborn as a cocktail bar, your premises likely has a story to tell. 

By researching that story and turning it into a booklet, display, or series of posters, you not only educate — you entertain and engage your customers on a deeper level.

Why History Adds Value

Customers love a good story. A venue with a past has personality. People enjoy eating or drinking somewhere with a unique atmosphere or a quirky anecdote attached.

It builds loyalty and pride. Locals appreciate seeing their town’s or neighbourhood’s heritage celebrated — and they’ll bring visiting friends and family to show it off.

It generates press interest. A newly discovered bit of history or a historical launch event can lead to coverage in local media or heritage publications.

It gives you content. History can fuel blog posts, newsletters, social media features and even seasonal events or menus inspired by the past.

How to Start Your Research

Visit your local history centre or library – they often have old maps, newspapers, and records.

Speak to your local historical society or long-time residents.

Look through the National Archives, British Newspaper Archive, or local council planning records.

Explore online tools like Historic England’s Listed Buildings database or Old Maps UK.

Search for census records, old trade directories, and photographs that might feature your building.

Ways to Share Your Venue’s Story

1. Create Wall Posters or Panels

Design tasteful, informative posters or panels with text and images, framed and displayed around your premises. Include:

A timeline of the building’s history

Photos of the building through the ages

Fascinating facts or quirky anecdotes

Profiles of past owners, famous visitors, or historical uses

2. Publish a Booklet or Pamphlet

Offer a small printed booklet for guests to browse or buy. Great for:

Hotel guests wanting a keepsake

Customers interested in architecture or local history

Tourists looking for something different

3. Take It Online

Publish the content on your website or blog

Share snippets on social media (“Throwback Thursdays” or “Did You Know?” features)

Add a QR code on your menu or tables linking to the full history online

4. Host a Heritage Event

Launch your history display or booklet with:

A special themed menu from the venue’s era

Period music or dress

Talks from local historians

A heritage open day or walking tour

Real-Life Examples

A former railway station café that displays historical railway timetables and old passenger anecdotes.

A Georgian pub that researched old recipes and recreated historic dishes for a themed tasting night.

A seafront tearoom that discovered it was once a smugglers’ hideaway and created a pirate-themed children’s menu and booklet.

A former cinema decorated with special themed carpeting and cinema posters and film evenings when the original projectors are used to show special films.

Final Thought

Your venue’s story is a free but powerful asset. In a world where customers crave connection, authenticity, and memorable experiences, sharing your building’s history adds charm and character that no chain or franchise can replicate.

So go on — dig into the past, bring it to life, and serve your guests a story they’ll remember long after the last bite or sip.

How to Make Simple Feasts for Your Family

When you think of the word feast, you might picture hours of preparation, expensive ingredients, and a mountain of washing-up. 

But feasting doesn't have to be fancy or stressful. With a bit of planning and a focus on simplicity, you can create joyful, hearty meals that feel like a celebration—without wearing yourself out.

Whether it’s Sunday lunch, a birthday tea, or just a treat for making it through the week, here’s how to create simple family feasts that bring everyone to the table.

1. Build Your Feast Around One Star Dish

Instead of juggling a dozen dishes, pick one standout centrepiece and build your meal around it. This could be:

A slow-roasted chicken with herby potatoes

A bubbling lasagne with a big salad and garlic bread

A vegetable-packed shepherd’s pie served with buttered greens

Keeping the focus on one main dish means less stress for you and more space to enjoy the moment.

2. Use What You Have

Feasts don’t require special shopping trips. Open the fridge and see what’s already there. Leftover veg can become a colourful roasted traybake. Stale bread? Turn it into croutons or a rustic pudding. Odds and ends of cheese or cured meats? Make a sharing platter.

A simple feast is about abundance, not expense.

3. Include One Fun Extra

Even just one “little something” can turn an ordinary meal into a feast. Try:

A jug of homemade lemonade or fruit cordial

A DIY toppings bar for baked potatoes or tacos

A surprise dessert like warm brownies with ice cream

These touches elevate the meal and create a sense of occasion.

4. Share the Load

Make your feast a family affair. Give everyone a job:

Little ones can help set the table or sprinkle cheese

Older children might chop veg or pour drinks

Someone else can be in charge of the playlist!

It’s not just about making dinner—it’s about making memories together.

5. Presentation Makes a Difference

Lay out food buffet-style or serve it in the middle of the table for everyone to dig in. Add a tablecloth, light a candle, or use the “nice” plates. Small details help signal that this is special—even if it’s just Tuesday night.

6. Feast on a Budget

You don’t need luxury ingredients to feast. Some of the most satisfying meals are also the most affordable:

Jacket potatoes with toppings like beans, cheese, and coleslaw

Spaghetti with a big batch of homemade sauce

A DIY pizza night using wraps or flatbreads as the base

Pair with a big jug of water with citrus slices and a fuss-free pudding, like a fruit crumble.

Final Thoughts

A simple family feast is really about creating joy and connection. It’s not about perfect timing, expensive cuts, or Insta-worthy spreads. It’s about pausing together and making even the everyday a little more special.

So go on—pick a day this week, plan something lovely, and turn your table into a place of celebration.

Loved this post?

Follow That’s Food and Drink for more easy, joyful food ideas the whole family will love.

Share your family feast photos with us on social media using #ThatsFoodAndDrinkFeast!

Why Hiring Secret Shoppers Can Transform Your Food and Drink Business

In a competitive and customer-driven market, the smallest details can make the biggest difference. 

Whether you run a bustling pub, a cosy café, an elegant restaurant, or a late-night venue, the experience you offer your customers can make or break your reputation. 

One of the most insightful – yet underused – tools available to hospitality and retail business owners is hiring secret shoppers, also known as mystery customers.

What Is a Secret Shopper?

A secret shopper is a trained individual who visits your establishment posing as a regular customer. Their goal? To evaluate and report on various aspects of their experience – from customer service and cleanliness to product quality, staff knowledge, and even how upselling is handled.

These reports can highlight blind spots, reinforce strengths, and ultimately help you deliver a more consistent, high-quality experience.

7 Ways Mystery Shoppers Can Benefit Your Food & Drink Venue

1. Honest, Unbiased Feedback

Your regular customers may not mention minor inconveniences, but a secret shopper will document every detail with objectivity.

2. Measure Customer Service Quality

From first impressions to how complaints are handled, secret shoppers provide insight into how well your team is really performing.

3. Check for Cleanliness and Compliance

Are staff washing their hands? Is your toilet area spotless? Are age-restricted products being handled appropriately? Secret shoppers can flag these issues discreetly.

4. Monitor Consistency

You may be offering great service during the day, but what about on a Friday night when it’s packed? Secret shoppers can visit at different times for a complete picture.

5. Benchmark Staff Performance

Use regular reports to identify who’s excelling – and who may need additional support or training.

6. Test Promotional Campaigns

Running a happy hour, loyalty scheme, or seasonal menu? See if it's being promoted and delivered as intended.

7. Boost Team Accountability

Knowing that a secret shopper could visit anytime subtly encourages staff to stay sharp and maintain high standards.

Recommended Mystery Shopping Firms in the UK

Here are several reputable companies that provide secret shopping services, particularly for the food and drink industry:

Market Force – marketforce.com

Offers detailed reports and customer journey evaluations tailored to hospitality businesses.

Retail Maxim – retailmaxim.co.uk

Specialises in customer experience measurement across retail and food service sectors.

Tern – tern.co.uk

Covers restaurants, pubs, and fast food chains. Known for in-depth qualitative feedback.

Proinsight – proinsight.org

Focuses on leisure and hospitality with a robust analytics dashboard.

Serve Legal – servelegal.co.uk

Specialises in age verification testing – ideal for pubs, clubs, and off-licences.

Mystery Dining by HGEM – hgem.com

Offers fine-grained reporting for restaurants and hotel dining areas.

Final Thoughts

Investing in secret shoppers isn’t about catching your team out – it’s about elevating your customer experience. By using mystery customer insights as a training and development tool, you build a business that’s more responsive, more efficient, and more trusted by your clientele.

After all, your customers are talking about you. Wouldn’t you rather know what they’re saying?

Incidentally my wife and I did some mystery shopping work. We learned at one set of premises that one member of staff was doing all the work and was being poorly treated by the manager.

Why Pubs, Restaurants and Hotels Should Partner with Local Brewers, Vineyards and Cider Makers

In an era where customers value authenticity, sustainability, and local flavour, there’s never been a better time for pubs, restaurants, and hotels to forge strong relationships with local brewers, vineyards, and cider makers.

By stocking and promoting local beverages, venues don’t just diversify their drink menus – they also support the regional economy, reduce their carbon footprint, and create a more memorable experience for their customers.

Local Means Unique

Customers love trying something they can’t get at home. Local beers, wines, and ciders often have a distinctive character that big-brand labels can’t replicate. These drinks are made with local ingredients, shaped by local traditions, and often inspired by the surrounding landscape.

When you pour a local ale or serve a regional wine, you’re telling a story in every glass – and diners will remember it.

Supporting Local Builds Relationships (and Reputation)

By stocking locally-made beverages, you:

Support independent producers who are passionate about their craft

Build community goodwill

Create opportunities for co-marketing and events, such as:

Meet-the-maker nights

Local drink and food pairing menus

Seasonal tasting boards

It shows your establishment is rooted in its community, not just operating in it.

Sustainability Sells

Sourcing locally cuts down on transport emissions, plastic waste, and complex logistics. It also aligns with the growing demand for eco-conscious dining and drinking.

Promoting your use of local products is a selling point, especially with younger, environmentally-aware customers.

Tips for Sourcing Local Beverages

Visit local farmers’ markets and food festivals – a great way to discover up-and-coming producers.

Network with your local chamber of commerce or tourism board – they often have directories of artisan producers.

Contact nearby microbreweries, vineyards, or cideries directly – many are happy to offer samples and tailored supply agreements.

Work together on co-branded promotions – for example, "Friday Fish & Fizz" with a sparkling English wine.

The Business Benefits

Higher margins on small-batch products

Potential for exclusive rights to serve or stock certain lines

Differentiation in a competitive hospitality market

A richer, more authentic brand story to tell on your menus and socials

Start with These UK-Based Producers

Here are just a few examples of local suppliers you could reach out to (based on region):

South West: Sandford Orchards (Devon), Camel Valley Vineyard (Cornwall), St Austell Brewery

North: Wold Top Brewery (Yorkshire), Three Brothers Cider (Durham), Ryedale Vineyards

Midlands: Church Farm Brewery (Warwickshire), Halfpenny Green Wine Estate

London & South East: Chapel Down (Kent), Big Drop Brewing (non-alcoholic craft beer), Nightingale Cider (Kent)

Wales: Gwynt y Ddraig Cider, Tiny Rebel Brewery

Scotland: Thistly Cross Cider, Eden Mill Brewery & Distillery, Cairn o’ Mohr Wines

Northern Ireland: Tempted Cider, Whitewater Brewery

Final Thoughts

Stocking local drinks is about more than just ticking a “support local” box. It adds flavour – literally and figuratively – to your offering, strengthens your brand, and can drive footfall from both locals and tourists alike.

So raise a glass to your region – and start your local sourcing journey today.

Are Weight Loss Injections Worth the Cost? A Guide for UK Patients

In recent years, weight loss injections have gained huge popularity among people looking for medical help to shed excess weight. 

With celebrity endorsements, NHS trials, and widespread discussion on social media, they’re often seen as a “miracle” solution. 

But what exactly are these injections, and how much do they really cost?

What Are Weight Loss Injections?

Weight loss injections are prescription medications delivered via injection (usually into the abdomen or thigh) that help reduce appetite, regulate blood sugar, or slow digestion. The most commonly used are:

Saxenda (liraglutide) – a daily injection

Wegovy (semaglutide) – a weekly injection

Ozempic (semaglutide) – primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes, but used off-label for weight loss

These medications are part of a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a hormone that helps control blood sugar and appetite.

Who Can Get Them?

They’re not suitable for everyone. In the UK, weight loss injections are typically prescribed to:

People with a BMI over 30, or

Those with a BMI over 27 who also have weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.

Some NHS patients may qualify through specialist weight management services, though availability is limited and subject to strict criteria.

How Effective Are They?

Clinical trials have shown that these injections can help people lose up to 15% of their body weight over several months, especially when combined with diet, exercise, and behavioural support.

How Much Do They Cost in the UK?

Here’s a rough guide to current private prices as of mid-2025:

Saxenda

Pack of 5 pens: £60–£75 per pen

Monthly cost: £240–£375

Requires daily injection

Wegovy

Weekly injection

Monthly cost: £195–£300 depending on dose

Currently available privately in the UK and increasingly prescribed on the NHS for eligible patients

Ozempic (off-label use)

Weekly injection

Monthly cost: £150–£250

In short supply due to high demand

Are There Any Side Effects?

Yes. Common side effects include:

Nausea or vomiting

Diarrhoea or constipation

Headaches

Low appetite

Serious side effects are rare but include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or thyroid tumours (in animal studies).

Are They Right for You?

Weight loss injections can be a powerful tool, but they’re not a quick fix. They work best when part of a comprehensive lifestyle change, supported by dietitians, GPs, or weight management coaches.

Before starting any injection, speak with your GP, pharmacist, or private weight loss clinic. Never purchase these medications from unregulated online vendors – there have been counterfeit and dangerous versions reported in the UK.

Interested in Starting?

Some of the UK’s most well-known providers include:

Superdrug Online Doctor

Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor

The Slimming Clinic

NHS Tier 3 Weight Management Services (eligibility applies)

If you’re thinking about using weight loss injections, weigh up the costs, benefits, and risks. They can be an excellent support for the right candidate – but make sure you’re doing it safely and sustainably.