Take a Leaf from B. Dylan Hollis’ Book – Creating Your Own Unique Kitchen and Cooking Vlogs

In the ever-growing world of food content, it’s easy to feel like everything’s been done. 

But then along comes someone like B. Dylan Hollis, with his offbeat charm, historical recipes, musical interludes his and truly unique approach to culinary content. 

Hollis has shown us that you don’t need to be a classically trained chef or have a Michelin-starred background to captivate audiences. You just need a point of view, a passion, and a pinch of personality.

So, if you’ve been thinking about starting your own kitchen or cooking vlog, take a leaf out of Hollis’ well-flavoured book and make something that’s unmistakably you.

Who Is B. Dylan Hollis?

Bermudan-born B. Dylan Hollis rose to internet fame by digging through vintage cookbooks and trying out quirky recipes from the 20th century – think tomato soup cake or meatloaf jellies. What sets him apart isn’t just the content, but the performance. He blends cooking with storytelling, comedy, and curiosity. There’s a dash of theatrical flair, a generous helping of sass, and a genuine fascination with culinary history. He's also an accomplished jazz pianist and accordion player and has a BA in music.  

What Can You Learn from His Style?

1. Find Your Niche

Hollis didn’t just start baking generic cakes. He found a niche – vintage, often bizarre, recipes – and committed to it. Whether it’s vegan comfort food, no-waste cooking, medieval recipes, or chaotic student meals on a tenner, your vlog should reflect your passions and point of difference.

2. Embrace Personality

You are the secret ingredient. Hollis’ expressive face, witty commentary, and vintage vibes are central to his brand. Don’t be afraid to let your quirks shine. Audiences connect with authenticity, not perfection.

3. Tell a Story

Food is more than ingredients and instructions. A good vlog adds context – where the recipe comes from, why you’re making it, and what happened when you tried it. Was it a triumph? A disaster? A surprise hit with your nan? Share the story.

4. Keep It Visually Engaging

Hollis’ set-up is retro and eye-catching. Think about your background, lighting, and outfit. You don’t need a professional studio – a well-lit kitchen and a few creative touches can do wonders.

5. Lean Into the Chaos (Sometimes)

One of the joys of Hollis’ content is that not everything goes to plan – and that’s part of the fun. Don’t edit out every blooper. Real life is messy. Embrace it.

Tips to Start Your Own Kitchen Vlog

Start small and simple: Your phone, a tripod, and good natural light are enough to begin.

Develop a format: Will you start each vlog with a quirky fact? End with a taste test? Create consistency.

Use music, captions, and quick edits to keep the pace up and hold attention.

Engage your audience: Ask questions, respond to comments, and try viewer-submitted recipes.

Stay consistent: One video a week is better than five sporadically. Build trust with your audience.

Inspiration Beyond Hollis

If you enjoy the idea of blending food with entertainment, you might also look at creators like:

Tabitha Brown – soulful, positive vegan food content

Barry Lewis – home cook meets gadget tester

Emmymade – food from around the world with calming, curious commentary

Final Thoughts

B. Dylan Hollis didn’t try to fit into a mould. He made his own. And that’s exactly what you should do with your food vlog. Whether you’re channeling your inner 1950s housewife, recreating your gran’s handed-down recipes, or cooking in cosplay, there’s an audience out there who wants to see your take on food.

So put the kettle on, hit record, and start cooking up some content. Your unique kitchen adventure awaits.

Celebrate International Sushi Day: Classic, Vegan, and Perfectly Paired

Every year on 18 June, food lovers across the globe mark International Sushi Day—a celebration of one of Japan’s most iconic and artistic culinary exports. 

From delicate nigiri to colourful maki rolls, sushi brings together flavour, precision, and presentation in perfect harmony. 

And thankfully, this celebration isn’t just for fish lovers—vegan sushi has taken centre stage in recent years, making sushi more inclusive, diverse, and creative than ever.

Here’s how to celebrate International Sushi Day in style, whether you're planning a dinner party, heading to your favourite sushi bar, or trying your hand at homemade rolls.

The Many Faces of Sushi

Sushi isn't just raw fish on rice—it’s a category of food with endless variations. The most popular types include:

Nigiri – slices of fish or toppings over hand-formed rice

Maki – rolled sushi wrapped in nori (seaweed)

Temaki – cone-shaped hand rolls

Uramaki – inside-out rolls with rice on the outside

Sashimi – thin slices of raw fish served without rice

Vegan Sushi for Everyone

Vegan sushi is more than a substitute—it’s an evolution of sushi artistry. Here are some popular and easy-to-make vegan fillings:

Avocado and cucumber maki – light, crisp, and creamy

Sweet potato tempura rolls – crunchy and comforting

Tofu or tempeh nigiri – protein-packed and flavourful

Pickled radish and carrot rolls – tangy and vibrant

Mushroom “scallop” nigiri – pan-seared king oyster mushrooms mimic the texture of shellfish

Top tip: Use sushi rice seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, and experiment with ingredients like sesame seeds, vegan mayo, sriracha, and fresh herbs to elevate the flavour.

Drink Pairings to Complement Your Sushi

Pairing sushi with the right beverage enhances the experience. Whether you're serving traditional rolls or vegan delights, here are some drinks to try:

Classic Pairings:

Sake – Junmai or Ginjo varieties pair well with clean, simple sushi flavours.

Japanese beer – Crisp lagers like Asahi or Sapporo cut through the richness of oily fish or fried components.

Green tea – Refreshing, palate-cleansing, and caffeine-boosting.

Vegan-Friendly Favourites:

Sparkling wine – Light and bubbly prosecco or cava works beautifully with vegan tempura rolls.

Chilled white wine – Sauvignon blanc or dry riesling pair well with citrusy or pickled fillings.

Kombucha – Adds a probiotic kick and goes well with spicy vegan rolls.

Alcohol-Free Options:

Yuzu soda – Bright and citrusy with a uniquely Japanese twist.

Coconut water – Mild and cooling for spicy or salty sushi combinations.

Make It a Celebration

Whether you're dining solo or hosting a group, here’s how to make International Sushi Day extra special:

Host a DIY sushi night – Lay out nori, rice, fillings, and rolling mats for a hands-on experience.

Try something new – Visit a sushi restaurant and order something you’ve never tried before.

Support local makers – Order from independent or artisan sushi chefs, especially those offering vegan or fusion options.

Share the love – Post your sushi creations on social media with the hashtag #InternationalSushiDay.

Final Thoughts

International Sushi Day is the perfect excuse to indulge, experiment, and celebrate the incredible versatility of sushi. Whether you’re sticking to tradition or embracing bold vegan twists, it’s all about enjoying beautifully crafted bites with good company and a great drink in hand.

乾杯 Kanpai! Or Cheers as we say!

Why Fix It If It Ain’t Broke? The Case for Keeping Your Commercial Kitchen Tech Running

In the world of food and drink service, it's tempting to chase after the latest gadgets, technologies, and kitchen equipment promising increased efficiency, better energy use, or greater precision. 

But many seasoned professionals stick to an old saying: "If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it." And when it comes to commercial kitchen tech, that wisdom still holds weight.

Proven Equipment Equals Peace of Mind

If a piece of kitchen equipment has been serving your team reliably for years—without error, interruption, or inconsistency—it’s earned its place. 

Whether it’s a commercial oven, grill, blast chiller, or even a decades-old Hobart mixer, older machines often have fewer digital components to go wrong, making them workhorses in busy environments.

Familiarity = Speed and Safety

Staff are trained on the current tech. They know how to clean it, troubleshoot it, and get the best performance out of it. Bringing in new systems can introduce a learning curve, slow service, and even pose safety risks if staff aren't properly trained. There's a time and place for upgrading, but change for change’s sake can do more harm than good.

The Environmental and Financial Case for Keeping What Works

Replacing large-scale commercial kitchen equipment prematurely isn’t just expensive—it’s wasteful. Manufacturing and shipping new units have environmental costs, while disposing of functioning units adds to landfill. Holding off replacement until absolutely necessary can cut carbon footprints and save thousands in unnecessary capital expenditure.

Maintenance: The Real Key to Longevity

The key argument against "just replacing" equipment lies in regular maintenance. With routine servicing, part replacements, and cleaning, most commercial kitchen tech can last for many years beyond its expected lifespan. A well-maintained piece of older kit will often outperform a newer, cheaper model.

When Is It Time to Replace?

Of course, there is a time to replace equipment—but it should be based on function, not fashion. Here are signs you should start planning:

It’s costing more in repairs than it’s worth.

Spare parts are impossible to source.

Energy bills are rising due to poor efficiency.

It no longer meets food safety or regulatory standards.

It’s failing during peak service.

Final Thoughts

There’s no shame in sticking with what works. In fact, it's a smart, sustainable, and often more profitable choice. 

If your commercial kitchen tech still works, does its job well, and your team trusts it—there’s no good reason to toss it aside just because something shinier is on the market. Use it wisely, maintain it regularly, and you might find it outlives the "next big thing" anyway.

Why we love shopping at Rituals: Rituals and Tiny Miracles – Empowering Women and Girls in India One Step at a Time

In a world where luxury brands are increasingly stepping up to make a difference, Rituals Cosmetics is standing out—not just for its sumptuous products inspired by ancient Eastern traditions, but for the quiet revolutions it’s helping to spark in communities thousands of miles away.

One such revolution is unfolding in India, through Rituals’ long-standing partnership with the Tiny Miracles Foundation. 

Founded by Dutch designer and social entrepreneur Laurien Meuter, Tiny Miracles works to break the cycle of poverty for women and children in Mumbai’s poorest communities.

A Partnership Rooted in Purpose

Since 2011, Rituals has supported Tiny Miracles in its mission to help communities transition from poverty to self-sufficiency. What began as a collaboration to provide employment opportunities has evolved into a holistic approach that addresses education, healthcare, empowerment, and economic stability.

The philosophy is simple but powerful: give people the tools and support to transform their own lives. And for thousands of women and girls in India, that transformation is very real.

Creating Jobs, Confidence and Community

At the heart of this initiative is dignified employment. Women in the communities Tiny Miracles serves are trained to produce decorative packaging, artwork, and gifts used in Rituals’ product lines—particularly around seasonal campaigns and limited edition releases. These are not outsourced sweatshop jobs, but thoughtfully designed opportunities that pay a fair wage and provide safe, respectful working conditions.

Beyond income, the women gain skills, confidence, and a sense of pride in being part of something meaningful. Many of them are the first in their families to earn a stable income, which has a knock-on effect on their daughters' education and their families’ health.

The Bigger Picture: Education, Healthcare and Social Change

Tiny Miracles doesn’t stop at employment. The foundation operates on a “5 Pillars” model: healthcare, education, employment, awareness and happiness. Girls are kept in school longer. Families are taught about hygiene, nutrition and financial literacy. And Rituals helps fund access to health services and vital training sessions.

The results are transformative. School attendance among girls in Tiny Miracles-supported communities has increased dramatically, early marriages are on the decline, and female entrepreneurship is on the rise.

Conscious Luxury That Gives Back

Consumers are more mindful than ever about where their money goes. With Rituals, buying a beautifully-scented candle or indulgent bath foam can also mean supporting ethical employment, gender equality, and real social change. It’s luxury with heart—and it’s working.

This partnership is a reminder that real beauty goes far beyond packaging. It lies in the choices we make as businesses and consumers, and in the small, consistent actions that ripple out into the world—tiny miracles that create lasting change.

How You Can Support

Shop Rituals' Tiny Miracles collections – keep an eye out for special packaging or products created in partnership with the foundation.

Learn more about Tiny Miracles at www.tinymiracles.nl and consider donating or spreading the word.

Also checkout Rituals.com

Choose brands that give back – every purchase is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in.

Small rituals. Big impact. That’s something worth celebrating.

We love Rituals products because they work well and because of the commitment to working with Tiny Miracles. And yes, we own several of their amazing beach bags!

Please watch their video, here:-

Celebrate National Fudge Day with Artisan Treats and Homemade Delights

National Fudge Day (16th June) is a dream for anyone with a sweet tooth — and a perfect excuse to indulge in a little creamy bliss. 

Whether you prefer your fudge smooth and silky or crumbly with a hint of sea salt, this is the day to embrace the magic of melt-in-the-mouth goodness.

Buy Local, Buy Artisan

Why not support small businesses and independent food makers by picking up a box (or two) of artisan fudge? Across the UK, fudge-makers are creating incredible flavours — from classic clotted cream to adventurous combinations like chilli chocolate, gin & tonic, or even blue cheese fudge (yes, really!). 

Look out for local producers at farmers’ markets or online — many offer gift boxes that are as beautiful as they are tasty.

Some top UK artisan fudge makers to try:

Fudge Kitchen – Hand-crafted, creamy fudge with both traditional and vegan options.

Roly’s Fudge Pantry – West Country-style crumbly fudge, freshly made on-site.

Buttermilk – A Cornish brand producing dairy and plant-based fudge in bold flavours.

Make Your Own Fudge at Home

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making fudge yourself. You can control the flavour, sweetness, and texture — and it makes a great gift or party treat. Try one of these flavour twists:

Salted Caramel & Pecan

White Chocolate & Raspberry

Earl Grey Tea Infused Fudge

Biscoff & Chocolate Swirl

Baileys Cream Fudge (adults only!)

Basic Fudge Recipe:

Traditional Vanilla Fudge Recipe

Ingredients:

450g granulated sugar

300ml whole milk

100g unsalted butter

1 x 397g tin of sweetened condensed milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

Pinch of salt (optional)

Method:

Prepare your tin – Line a 20cm square tin with baking paper.

Melt the ingredients – In a large non-stick saucepan, add the sugar, milk, butter, and condensed milk. Heat gently over medium-low, stirring continuously until everything has melted and the sugar is fully dissolved.

Boil the mixture – Turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir constantly to avoid burning, and cook until it reaches 115°C on a sugar thermometer (soft-ball stage). This may take around 10–15 minutes.

Cool slightly – Remove from heat and let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to cool slightly.

Beat the fudge – Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt (if using), then beat the mixture with a wooden spoon or electric mixer until it thickens and loses its gloss (about 5–10 minutes).

Pour and set – Pour into the prepared tin, smooth the top, and leave to cool completely at room temperature (don’t refrigerate). Once set, cut into squares.

Optional Add-ins or Toppings:

Crushed clotted cream shortbread pieces

Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming touch

A swirl of golden syrup or maple syrup before beating

Sprinkle sea salt or edible glitter on top before setting

Biscoff Fudge 

Ingredients:

1 x 397g tin sweetened condensed milk

150g unsalted butter

450g light brown sugar

150g smooth Biscoff spread

1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional topping: crushed Biscoff biscuits

Method:

Line a tin – Use a 20cm square tin lined with baking paper.

Melt ingredients – In a large saucepan, melt the butter, condensed milk, and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring until smooth.

Boil the fudge – Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Use a sugar thermometer and boil until it reaches 115°C (soft-ball stage).

Cool and beat – Remove from heat, stir in Biscoff spread and vanilla, and let cool for 5 minutes. Then beat vigorously until thickened and matte.

Pour and top – Pour into your tin, smooth the surface, and sprinkle with crushed Biscoff biscuits if desired. Let it set fully at room temperature.

Ginger Fudge

1 x 397g tin sweetened condensed milk

150ml whole milk

100g unsalted butter

450g demerara sugar

1–2 tsp ground ginger (to taste)

1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional: 75g chopped crystallised ginger for extra zing

Method:

Line a tin – Use a 20cm square tin lined with baking paper.

Melt and stir – Add butter, sugar, milk, and condensed milk to a large saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until smooth.

Boil to temperature – Increase the heat and boil until the mixture reaches 115°C (soft-ball stage), stirring constantly.

Add flavour – Remove from heat, stir in ground ginger, vanilla, and chopped crystallised ginger if using.

Beat and set – Let cool for 5 minutes, then beat until thickened and creamy. Pour into the tin and leave to set.

Share the Fudge Love!

Whether you’re picking up some beautifully packaged artisan fudge or making your own at home, don’t forget to share the love. National Fudge Day is perfect for a little mid-year treat for colleagues, friends, or just yourself (no judgment here).

How will you be celebrating? Tag us in your fudge creations using #ThatsFoodAndDrink!

That's Food and Drink will be indulging in some fudge, too!

Cheers to Beer Day Britain! Raising a Glass to Our National Tipple

Every 15th of June, pubs, breweries, beer lovers, and ale aficionados across the country unite to say one thing: Cheers to Beer! 

It’s Beer Day Britain, the UK’s national beer day — a celebration of our long and proud brewing heritage, our vibrant pub culture, and the sheer joy of sharing a pint with friends.

Why We Celebrate Beer Day Britain

Beer Day Britain was launched in 2015 to coincide with the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta — a document that even mentioned beer! Since then, it’s become an annual tradition where Brits come together to toast the drink that’s been a part of our lives, our history, and our communities for centuries.

From hearty pints of traditional bitters in countryside pubs to crisp craft lagers brewed in hipster London taprooms, the British beer scene is more diverse and dynamic than ever.

The 7pm National Cheers

One of the highlights of Beer Day Britain is the 7pm "Cheers to Beer!" toast, where beer lovers up and down the land (and even abroad) stop to raise a glass and post photos on social media using #CheersToBeer. It’s a moment of national unity — with a hoppy twist.

British Beer: A Brief Love Story

Britain has long been a global leader in beer innovation and tradition. Some of the best-known beer styles in the world — like India Pale Ale (IPA), Porter, and Pale Ale — originated on these isles. Even now, with more than 2,000 breweries across the UK, we’re experiencing a renaissance in craft brewing that rivals any in the world.

From well-loved regional breweries like Timothy Taylor’s and Adnams to bold newcomers like BrewDog and Verdant, there’s a beer out there for every palate.

How to Celebrate Beer Day Britain

1. Visit your local pub or brewery: 

Support your local by popping in for a pint. Many venues hold special events, taster nights, or live music.

2. Try a new British beer: 

Whether it’s a ruby mild from Yorkshire or a juicy modern IPA from Bristol, take a chance on something new and homegrown.

3. Pair your beer with food: 

Beer and food pairings are trending — think classic fish and chips with a crisp lager, or a rich stout with dark chocolate cake.

4. Say “Cheers to Beer!” 

at 7pm: Join in the national toast and share your snaps online using #BeerDayBritain and #CheersToBeer.

5. Learn the history: 

Read about the role beer played in British history, from medieval ales to industrial brewing and CAMRA’s Real Ale revolution.

Celebrating Responsibly

Beer Day Britain is about joy, community, and pride in our national drink — but it's also a reminder to enjoy alcohol responsibly. Know your limits, drink water between pints, and never drink and drive.

Here's to Beer, Britain! 

Whether you’re sipping a classic bitter at your local, cracking open a can of craft beer at home, or just joining in the 7pm toast, Beer Day Britain is a time to celebrate one of our country’s finest traditions. So raise your glass and say it loud:

“Cheers to Beer!”

That's Food and Drink will be joining in the celebrations, too.

Recreate the Meals Eaten by the Stars of Your Favourite TV Shows

Ever watched your favourite TV show and found yourself drooling over the delicious dishes on screen? 

From a steaming shepherd’s pie on a rainy night in Happy Valley, to the luxe brunches of Bridgerton, or even the comfort foods of Friends, TV shows don’t just entertain us—they inspire us in the kitchen too.

Here’s how you can bring a little screen magic to your own table by recreating meals eaten by iconic characters from beloved series.

1. Friends – Monica’s Thanksgiving Feast

Monica Geller, a chef by trade, set the bar for holiday food. Recreate her Thanksgiving feast with:

Roast turkey – Brined and oven-roasted with herbed butter

Cranberry sauce – Homemade with orange zest

Sweet potato mash with marshmallows – Very American, very indulgent

Don’t forget Rachel’s infamous trifle – maybe without the beef and peas!

Fun Fact: Jennifer Aniston says she ate the same salad every day on set — a crunchy mix of bulgur, cucumber, parsley, mint, red onion, chickpeas, and feta.

2. Game of Thrones – Medieval Banquet Fare

Whether you’re Team Stark or Team Lannister, nothing screams Westeros like a medieval-style feast:

Honeyed chicken – Spiced and roasted, then glazed with honey and herbs

Baked apples and nuts

Crusty bread and rustic cheeses

Ale or mulled wine to wash it all down

There’s even an official Game of Thrones cookbook, A Feast of Ice and Fire, if you want to go full maester.

3. Downton Abbey – Elegant Edwardian Dining

Channel the grandeur of the Crawleys’ dining room with:

Beef Wellington

Pea and mint soup served in fine china

Lemon syllabub or spotted dick with custard for dessert

Accompanied by a good bottle of claret or a post-dinner sherry

Remember: courses were numerous and portions small — elegance over indulgence.

4. Stranger Things – 1980s American Comfort Food

Head back to Hawkins, Indiana, with nostalgic bites like:

Eggo waffles (Eleven’s go-to snack)

Sloppy Joes

Tater tots or TV dinners

Wash down with Coca-Cola (New Coke edition, if you dare)

Bonus: Create a retro playlist to match the vibe.

5. The Bear – Modern Chef-Inspired Dishes

Want something more restaurant-realistic? The Bear on Disney+ showcases gritty kitchen culture and creative cooking. Try your hand at:

Italian beef sandwiches – Inspired by the show's Chicago roots

Carmy’s omelette with Boursin cheese and chives

Handmade pasta with rich ragu

Tip: This is a great opportunity to sharpen your knife skills or plate like a pro.

How to Start Your TV Food Journey

Watch with intent – Pause scenes to note what’s being eaten

Use official or fan-made cookbooks – Many exist for popular shows

Recreate the vibe – Set the table or decorate to match the setting

Host a watch party dinner – Pair episodes with matching meals

Final Thoughts

Food on screen does more than fuel the plot—it tells us who characters are and where they come from. Recreating these meals at home is not just a culinary adventure; it's a chance to connect more deeply with the stories we love.

So whether you’re nibbling a Hobbit’s second breakfast or sipping tea like a Bridgerton, TV-inspired cooking is a delicious way to binge-watch with purpose.

Have you recreated a dish from a show you love? Share it on social media and tag us with #TVDinnerChallenge!

How to Deal with Moth and Other Infestations in Your Commercial Kitchen

Running a commercial kitchen is a serious business, and maintaining the highest hygiene standards is non-negotiable. 

One of the more unpleasant challenges kitchen managers may face is the appearance of pests – particularly moths and other infestations such as flies, cockroaches, ants, and rodents. 

These intruders are not only a health hazard but also a reputational risk, especially if spotted by customers or environmental health inspectors.

Here’s how to effectively deal with and prevent moth and other infestations in your commercial kitchen:

1. Understand the Enemy: Common Commercial Kitchen Pests

Moths: Often drawn to stored dry goods like flour, grains, rice and nuts, pantry moths (also known as Indian meal moths) can quickly contaminate food supplies. They can even be introduced to your premises by produce from outside that was already infested, such as rice, flour, etc.

Cockroaches: Thrive in warm, damp conditions and feed on any organic matter – especially food waste.

Flies: Attracted to uncovered food and bins, flies can spread harmful bacteria with ease.

Rodents: Mice and rats are a major threat to food safety and can cause structural damage.

Ants: Though small, ants can infest sweet or greasy foods and are tough to eradicate without a strategic approach.

2. Spot the Signs of an Infestation Early

Droppings or smear marks along walls or near food storage.

Webbing or cocoons in dry goods containers (sign of moths).

Unpleasant odours, especially musty or oily smells.

Visible pests, particularly at night (cockroaches and rodents are nocturnal).

Gnawed packaging or tiny holes in bags of dry food.

Early detection is key to managing a problem before it escalates.

3. Prevention is Better than Cure

Good storage practices:

Store all dry goods in sealed, airtight containers.

Label and rotate stock using FIFO (First In, First Out) to avoid old food sitting too long.

Clean spills immediately and keep floors, shelving, and storage areas free from crumbs and residue.

Hygiene routines:

Implement a daily, weekly, and monthly deep-cleaning schedule.

Pay attention to hidden spots like behind fridges, under sinks, and inside vents.

Ensure grease traps are emptied and cleaned regularly.

Waste control:

Empty bins frequently and keep lids sealed.

Store waste outside in sealed bins to avoid attracting flies or rodents.

Staff training:

Make pest awareness part of your hygiene training.

Encourage staff to report sightings of any pest activity immediately.

4. What to Do if You Discover an Infestation

Stop service if necessary:

Depending on the severity, it may be best to temporarily halt food service to protect public health.

Dispose of contaminated food:

If pests have breached packaging or come into contact with food, it must be discarded safely.

Call in professionals:

A licensed pest control company should be contacted to assess and treat the infestation. Look for firms that specialise in commercial food premises.

Follow up treatments:

Many infestations require multiple treatments. Stick to the recommended schedule and comply with all follow-up checks.

Review your procedures:

After treatment, review and strengthen your pest control measures to stop recurrence.

5. Moth-Specific Tips

Inspect all new deliveries of dry goods before placing them in storage.

Use pheromone traps to monitor and reduce pantry moth populations.

Clean storage containers thoroughly before refilling – larvae and eggs can hide in cracks.

Freeze bulk dry goods for 72 hours before storing to kill any hidden larvae.

6. Stay Compliant

Food safety regulations in the UK (under Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 and enforced by local authorities) require commercial kitchens to be free from contamination risks – including pests. Keep documentation of pest control visits and hygiene logs to show you are maintaining standards.

In Summary

A proactive approach, combined with strict hygiene protocols and professional support when needed, is the best way to manage and prevent moths and other infestations in your commercial kitchen. Staying vigilant not only protects your customers and staff but also preserves the reputation and success of your food business.

First Impressions Matter – Why You Must Keep the Outside of Your Food and Drink Premises Spotlessly Clean

When it comes to running a successful food and drink establishment, what’s on the plate is only part of the picture. 

The outside of your premises is just as important as the inside, especially when it comes to attracting and retaining customers. 

No matter how mouth-watering your menu or how friendly your team, a dirty or neglected exterior can send potential diners heading for the hills – or worse, straight to your competitors.

I recently overheard a comment that really hammered this point home:

“The outside of these premises is filthy. I dread to think what it’s like inside. Let’s go elsewhere.”

A harsh statement – but also brutally honest. And they weren’t alone. Many passers-by judge a café, restaurant, pub or takeaway on its kerb appeal alone.

Let’s dive into why keeping the outside of your food business spotlessly clean is not just good practice – it’s essential.

1. It’s Your Silent Salesperson

The front of your establishment is your first and most visible advert. Dirty windows, overflowing bins, cigarette butts or bird droppings don’t just make your place look unattractive – they actively repel potential customers. A clean, well-maintained frontage sends the message: “We take pride in everything we do.”

2. It Builds Trust in Your Hygiene Standards

Whether consciously or not, customers equate a clean exterior with a clean kitchen. If the outside is grimy or neglected, people will assume hygiene standards are just as lax behind the scenes – and that can be enough to put them off for good.

3. It Keeps You on the Right Side of Inspectors

Environmental health inspectors won’t stop judging your premises once they step outside. Litter, dirty pavements, grease marks, or poorly maintained signage can all influence the overall impression of your food safety standards. Don't give them a reason to question your cleanliness.

4. It Encourages Repeat Visits

People want to feel proud when they bring their friends or family to their favourite local. A sparkling entrance, clean windows, well-kept outdoor seating and fresh signage can help create a welcoming, professional atmosphere that brings people back again and again.

5. It Deters Pests

Overflowing bins, spilled food waste or untidy storage areas outside can attract rats, mice, flies and other pests – all of which are bad news for any food premises. Regular cleaning, along with proper waste management, reduces the risk of infestations.

6. It’s a Marketing Opportunity

A clean exterior provides the perfect canvas for promotional signage, specials boards, or flower displays. Make the most of your space to show off your personality and draw people in. But it only works if everything is clean, tidy and looked after.

How to Keep the Outside Spotless

Daily sweep-downs of pavements, entryways and smoking areas

Pressure washing paths or seating areas weekly or after spills

Regular window cleaning to keep your frontage gleaming

Bin checks – make sure waste areas are neat, with lids on and no spillages

Tidy signage – fix peeling stickers, broken signs or wonky chalkboards

Monitor for graffiti or vandalism – act quickly to clean or report issues

Staff training – include exterior checks in your daily cleaning rota

In Summary

The cleanliness of the outside of your business is not just cosmetic – it’s a direct reflection of your brand, your hygiene, and your professionalism. Don’t let something as simple as a dirty doorway or an overflowing bin drive customers away before they’ve even seen your menu.

As the passer-by said: “I dread to think what it’s like inside.”

Let’s make sure no one says that about your business.

How Your Food Business Can Partner with Local Charities to Help Feed Disadvantaged People

In an era of rising living costs and growing food insecurity, many individuals and families in our communities are struggling to put meals on the table. 

As a food business—whether you run a restaurant, café, catering company or bakery—you’re in a unique position to make a meaningful difference. 

Partnering with local charities to help feed disadvantaged people is not only socially responsible; it’s also good for community relations and your brand reputation.

Here’s how your business can start making an impact today.

1. Build Relationships with Local Charities

Start by identifying charities and community organisations in your area that focus on food provision. This could include food banks, soup kitchens, shelters, community fridges, and churches or mosques that run meal programmes. Reach out and have a conversation about their needs—some may need regular surplus food donations, while others might benefit from one-off events or cooked meals.

Examples in the UK include:

FareShare

The Trussell Trust

FoodCycle

The Felix Project (London)

Community fridges via Hubbub

2. Donate Surplus Food Responsibly

If your business regularly ends up with unused stock or prepared food that’s still safe to eat, consider setting up a structured donation programme. Work with charities that can collect your surplus or coordinate with a volunteer network. Be sure to follow all food safety guidelines and check if your business is covered by the UK’s Good Samaritan food donation protections.

Some platforms like Too Good To Go or OLIO also help businesses redistribute food that would otherwise go to waste.

3. Offer Skills or Services

Your team’s skills can be just as valuable as food donations. Consider volunteering your chefs for cookery workshops at community centres, or helping charities create nutritious, low-cost meal plans. You could host fundraising dinners or pop-up events, donating the profits to food charities.

4. Sponsor or Support Community Meals

Many charities host regular community meals for those in need. Partnering with them to sponsor a meal—or providing the venue, ingredients, or staff—can make a big difference. These events don’t just feed people; they create spaces for connection and dignity.

5. Run a “Pay It Forward” Scheme

Consider starting a “Pay It Forward” initiative where customers can purchase a meal or hot drink in advance for someone in need. Display this clearly in your premises or online, and coordinate with a local charity to redeem them.

6. Raise Awareness and Encourage Donations

Use your business's visibility to raise awareness about local hunger issues. Display collection bins for food or essentials, share charity appeals on social media, or add an optional donation to your checkout process (especially for online orders).

7. Build Long-Term Partnerships

Consistency is key. While one-off efforts are helpful, long-term partnerships with charities allow you to create sustainable impact. Establish regular donation schedules, co-branded campaigns, or annual charity events. This also gives your staff and customers a sense of purpose and involvement.

Food is one of the most powerful ways to care for others. As a food business, you’re in a position of influence and opportunity. Working with local charities not only helps address food poverty in your community—it shows your customers and your staff that you’re committed to doing good.

By sharing what you have—whether it’s ingredients, time, space, or skills—you can help bring dignity, warmth, and nourishment to those who need it most.