Are Energy Drinks Really That Bad for You? And What Are the Healthier Alternatives?

Doesn't look appealing

In today’s modern world, energy drinks have become the go-to pick-me-up for students, professionals, athletes, and even busy parents. 

With promises of improved focus, enhanced stamina, and a quick energy boost, they’re hard to resist. 

But are energy drinks really that bad for you? And if they are, what are some safer and more effective alternatives?

What's Inside an Energy Drink?

Most energy drinks contain a mix of:

Caffeine – anywhere from 80mg to over 300mg per can (a typical cup of coffee has about 95mg)

Sugar – often upwards of 20g per serving, though some are sugar-free

Taurine, B vitamins, guarana, ginseng – various ingredients marketed as performance-enhancing

While these ingredients may provide a temporary energy surge, they come with significant risks, especially when consumed in large quantities or combined with alcohol.

The Health Concerns

Experts have raised several red flags about energy drinks:

Heart problems: High caffeine levels can lead to elevated heart rate, raised blood pressure, and in extreme cases, heart rhythm issues.

Sleep disruption: Caffeine can remain in your system for up to 8 hours, interfering with sleep and leaving you more tired the next day.

Anxiety and jitters: Too much caffeine can cause nervousness, irritability, and even panic attacks in sensitive individuals.

Weight gain and dental health: The high sugar content can contribute to obesity and tooth decay.

Risk for teens and children: The NHS warns against energy drink consumption in under-16s, and many UK supermarkets have banned sales to minors.

So... Are They Really That Bad?

Occasional consumption in moderation may not cause harm for healthy adults. However, if you're relying on energy drinks regularly to get through the day, it's a sign your energy levels may need addressing in a more sustainable way.

Healthier Alternatives for a Quick Energy Boost

If you're looking to avoid the crash-and-burn of energy drinks, here are some safer options to keep your energy up:

Water

Dehydration is one of the most common causes of fatigue. A big glass of cold water can do wonders for alertness.

Green or Black Tea

Lower in caffeine than coffee or energy drinks, and rich in antioxidants. Green tea in particular offers a gentler, longer-lasting energy lift.

A Handful of Nuts or Seeds

Packed with healthy fats and protein, these can stabilise blood sugar and offer a slow-release energy source.

Banana or Apple

Natural sugars combined with fibre and nutrients make fruit an ideal energy snack.

A Short Walk or Fresh Air

Sometimes physical movement is the best way to kick-start your brain. Even 10 minutes can help.

Cold Shower or Face Splash

Stimulates circulation and sharpens mental focus.

B Vitamins from Food

Instead of relying on synthetic blends, eat foods rich in B vitamins such as eggs, spinach, legumes, and whole grains for long-term energy support.

In Summary

Energy drinks may deliver a temporary buzz, but the risks, especially for young people, shouldn't be ignored. Though they’re not inherently evil, but they’re far from essential. When you need a lift, consider turning to more natural and less risky methods.

Foodie Travel Guide Publisher Printslinger Partners With Wild Guides

Printslinger Limited, an independent Bristol-based publisher of foodie travel guides, is thrilled to reveal announce its books will be represented by Wild Things Publishing Limited from this month, July 2025.  

Wild Things created the popular Wild Guides, Wild Swimming, and Lost Lanes series, among other titles, and it has previously held the British Book Awards' Small Press of the Year award. 

The Extra Mile Guide: over 50,000 copies sold 

Printslinger's flagship title, The Extra Mile: Delicious Alternatives to Motorway Services, has sold over 50,000 copies to date with a new edition planned for next year, 2026. 

The company, known as Extra Mile Books on social media, was founded by travel publisher Alastair Sawday and writer Laura Collacott in 2017. It now has three café and foodie guides which celebrate local, independent food businesses across Britain: 

* The Extra Mile: Delicious Alternatives to Motorway Services 

* The Coastal Café Guide: Eating on the Edge 

* The Farm Shop Guide: Farm to Fork Food 

Each title has hit the Amazon #1 category bestseller and #1 most gifted spot, and Printslinger's books have received coverage on BBC Good Morning TV, national radio channels, and traditional and online outlets including The Times, The Scotsman, Waitrose Weekend and The Telegraph. 

British food tourism and travel guides: the outlook is sunny 

In Britain, domestic travel and food tourism are increasing. Google searches for 'staycation' surpass 10,000 every month, with driving holidays a pillar of UK leisure travel. 

Sampling local food and drink ranks highly on the visitor agenda, with the value of the UK's culinary tourism market predicted to hit £2.5 billion by 2030.  

Domestic overnight tourism in the UK has increased 160% from 45 million annual trips in 2021 to 117 million in 2024, and 1.2 billion domestic day visits in 2023 generated over £50 billion in tourism spend. 

In this flourishing home market, Printslinger's books make ideal purchases for those planning summer escapes across Britain who prefer to eat locally while escaping the monotony of motorway services. 

A natural partnership 

Since its foundation in 2012, Wild Things has sold over one million books, and its outdoor and travel guides continue to inspire adventurers and lovers of the countryside. Daniel Start, founder and author, told That's Food and Drink:“We've always loved the concept of Printslinger's books. A little bit of extra effort and knowledge can reward the traveller with hidden quality and a sense of adventure, too."

Kerry O'Neill, Printslinger's director of publishing, agrees, saying; “There's a natural connection between Wild Guides and our own books. Both brands' readers are independent minded and love to seek out the unusual and the road less travelled... quite literally in our case, as we encourage people to swap motorway services for nearby independent eateries while exploring Britain.  

“We're thrilled The Extra Mile and Printslinger's newer and pending titles will now be represented by Daniel Start and his team. A tireless creator, Daniel imagined and launched the first Wild Swimming guide in 2008, with Wild Guides following in 2013. He's remained a step ahead ever since, with useful and zeitgeisty titles appearing just as you realise you need them. We can't wait to see where this new partnership and energy takes our expanding range of titles.”   

Book idea submissions welcome

Printslinger is growing. It welcomes approaches from established writers with subject or region-specific expertise with their book ideas for publication in the UK. Accommodation-based books are not invited but relevant topics of interest include food and drink, growing food and sustainability, the great outdoors, niche region or country-specific guides, van-life, upcoming regions, and fast-growing outdoor sports or healthy pastimes. Those that fit 'The Xxxx Xxxxx Guide' format would work well alongside existing titles.

Wild Things will represent Printslinger for all trade sales.

https://wildthingspublishing.com/

https://theextramile.guide/

Can Oral Immunotherapy Trials Offer New Hope for People with Nut and Other Allergies?

For millions of people across the UK and beyond, living with a severe nut allergy means constantly reading labels, carrying an adrenaline auto-injector, and sometimes missing out on shared meals, holidays, or even school trips. 

But a promising area of research, oral immunotherapy (OIT), may be about to change that.

What Is Oral Immunotherapy?

Oral immunotherapy involves giving someone a tiny, controlled doses of an allergen (like peanuts, tree nuts, or milk) in gradually increasing amounts over time. 

The goal is to train the immune system to become less reactive or even tolerant to the substance. It's not a cure, but it could reduce the risk of severe reactions from accidental exposure.

How OIT Trials Work

Participants in OIT trials usually start with a minute dose of the allergen, often a fraction of a milligram, and increase their intake slowly over several months under medical supervision. These trials are carefully monitored and often conducted in hospital settings due to the risk of reactions.

Recent UK-based and international trials, including studies at institutions like Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge and Imperial College London, have shown that up to 70–80% of participants can build up some level of desensitisation. That means they may not react, or may only have a mild reaction, if they accidentally eat a small amount of the allergen.

Who Might Benefit?

Children with peanut, hazelnut, or other tree nut allergies

People allergic to milk or eggs

Families hoping to reduce daily anxiety around food

Those at high risk of accidental exposure

However, OIT is not suitable for everyone, especially those with a history of severe or uncontrolled asthma or anaphylaxis. It’s important that any decision to begin this type of therapy be made with an allergy specialist.

Are There Risks?

Yes, OIT can cause allergic reactions, especially during the build-up phase. Some people experience gastrointestinal upset, mouth itching, or more serious reactions. That’s why trials are so vital—to determine who benefits most and how to keep them safe.

The Future of Allergy Care?

While OIT is still not widely available on the NHS, several trials are ongoing and commercial treatments (like Palforzia, a peanut allergy treatment approved in the UK) are emerging. With further research, personalised immunotherapy plans could become a mainstream part of allergy care.

Oral immunotherapy isn’t a magic bullet, but it may be a significant step forward in empowering people with food allergies to live more confidently. If you or your child are living with a nut or other food allergy, talk to your GP or allergy specialist about whether an OIT trial might be an option for you.

Indulging in Exotic Luxury: The Rise of Middle Eastern-Style Chocolates

Chocolate lovers are always on the lookout for something a little different, something new. And right now, it's all about Middle Eastern-inspired indulgence. 

Whether it's an infusion of rosewater, pistachio, tahini, dates, cardamom, or saffron, the Middle Eastern twist is making its way into everything from gourmet truffles to everyday chocolate bars.

A Sweet Tradition Meets Modern Luxury

The Middle East has a rich history of using dates, nuts, and spices in desserts, think baklava, ma’amoul, and halva. 

Today, those same ingredients are being elevated and reimagined in artisanal chocolate creations.

From luxury brands in Beirut and Dubai to boutique chocolatiers in London and Paris, the combination of fine chocolate and regional flavours is proving irresistible. 

Picture a dark chocolate ganache infused with orange blossom, or a creamy milk chocolate bar topped with crushed pistachios and a whisper of rose.

Why the Buzz?

These chocolates don’t just taste delicious. They also tell a story. They offer:

Exotic Flavour Profiles: A refreshing break from traditional European-style fillings.

Healthier Additions: Many use natural sweeteners like dates and incorporate ingredients like sesame or nuts, which are nutrient-rich.

Artisanal Appeal: Often handmade or small batch prepared, with luxurious packaging to match.

Cultural Connection: A way to enjoy flavours from across the globe in a familiar, beloved format.

Perfect for Gifting (or Treating Yourself)

Middle Eastern-style chocolates make beautiful gifts. They’re elegant, unexpected, and memorable, so are ideal for birthdays, wedding favours, dinner parties, Eid celebrations, or simply to brighten someone’s day.

Where to Try Them

In the UK, you can find these delights at high-end food halls, online confectioners, and at Middle Eastern delicatessens. Look for brands like Mirzam, Patchi, or local artisans blending British chocolate with Levantine flavours.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with a Taste of the East. Because it’s Chocolate, But Not As You Know It.

The Latest Health Trends – Is Broccoli Juice the New Superfood?

In the ever-evolving world of health and wellness, new trends seem to pop up every week. The latest buzz? Broccoli juice. 

Touted by influencers and wellness gurus as a miracle drink packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and detoxifying powers, it has sparked a mix of curiosity, enthusiasm and scepticism.

But is broccoli juice actually good for you? And do any of these health claims stand up to scrutiny?

Let’s explore what’s really behind this green health trend, and a few others worth noting.

Broccoli Juice  A Superfood in a Glass?

Broccoli is well-known as a nutrient-dense vegetable. It’s rich in:

Vitamin C for immune support

Folate vital for cell function and tissue growth

Vitamin K essential for bone health and blood clotting

Sulforaphane a potent antioxidant with potential cancer-fighting properties

By juicing broccoli, you're essentially concentrating those nutrients into a more easily absorbed form. But the big question is: does it work?

The Good News:

Broccoli juice can be a quick way to boost your intake of micronutrients.

It may help reduce inflammation due to the high levels of antioxidants.

Some small-scale studies suggest sulforaphane could help support detoxification in the liver.

The Not-So-Good:

Juicing broccoli removes most of the fibre, which is crucial for digestive health and blood sugar control.

Drinking it raw can cause bloating or wind for some people, especially those with IBS.

The taste is strong and often requires mixing with other veg or fruits like apples or carrots to make it palatable.

Other Trending Health Elixirs

Garlic Shots

Raw garlic shots are said to be antiviral and heart-healthy. While garlic does have antimicrobial and cholesterol-lowering properties, it’s potent and can irritate the stomach lining if consumed excessively.

Mushroom Coffee

A mix of coffee and medicinal mushrooms (like lion’s mane or chaga) is trending for boosting focus and immunity. Early research is promising, but it’s not a replacement for medical treatments.

Celery Juice

Still hanging around the health scene, celery juice is thought to reduce bloating and support digestion. There’s little hard evidence, but it’s hydrating and high in potassium.

Do These Trends Work?

As with most health trends, the key is moderation and context. Broccoli juice and its trending companions aren’t miracle cures, but they can complement a healthy lifestyle. It’s important to:

Focus on whole foods where possible

Ensure your diet is balanced and varied

Not rely on any single food or drink for health or detoxification

Bottom Line

Broccoli juice is packed with nutrients and may offer health perks, but it’s no substitute for eating a varied diet with plenty of whole vegetables. If you enjoy it and it fits your lifestyle, go for it – but don’t be swayed by hype alone. Trends can inspire us to make healthier choices, but science, not social media, should guide the way.

Would you try broccoli juice? Or have you already? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Salmonella poisoning linked to tomatoes in the UK

What’s Happened

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported a 17% rise in Salmonella infections, reaching a decade-high 10,388 cases in 2024, up from 8,872 in 2023 

Among these, several outbreaks, two involving Salmonella Enteritidis, were traced back to eggs served at restaurants, while at least one cluster was linked to contaminated tomatoes.

Tomatoes in the Spotlight

A large-scale EU-wide Salmonella Strathcona outbreak affecting over 250 people has been linked to Italian tomatoes, implicating the UK among 16 countries.

There are 29 confirmed UK cases between January 2023 and November 2024, part of a multi-country outbreak tied to small cherry tomatoes from Sicily.

 How Did This Happen?

Investigations across Austria, Italy, Denmark and beyond pinpointed Sicilian cherry or snack tomatoes as the recurring culprit .

Whole-genome sequencing confirmed a genetic match between strains isolated from human cases and tomatoes 

Environmental assessments have flagged contaminated irrigation water and farm animals near tomato farms in Sicily as potential sources. 

Health Risks & Symptoms

Salmonella typically induces diarrhoea, fever, cramps, nausea, and vomiting, starting 1–3 days after exposure and lasting for up to about a week 

While most victims recover without medical treatment, young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals risk severe complications, death in some rare cases. 

The UKFSA advises thorough washing of tomatoes and other fresh produce under running water to reduce contamination.

Public health authorities are on alert, working with EU partners to trace and test tomato imports, and investigating supply chains from Sicily .

Consumer tips:

Rinse tomatoes thoroughly under running water, include those with vine attached.

Cook tomatoes if unsure of origin (e.g., in sauces or soups).

Wash hands and surfaces after handling fresh produce to prevent cross‑contamination.

For vulnerable individuals:

Be extra cautious or avoid eating raw, imported tomatoes until the situation improves.

Looking Ahead

Continuous monitoring and genomic testing are underway to:

Trace the exact source and contamination route back to Sicily.

Identify environmental vectors like water, soil, or animals on farms.

Implement tighter safety controls in affected supply chains to prevent future outbreaks .

Summary

UK is experiencing a notable rise in Salmonella illness, with confirmed tomato‑linked cases as part of a broader European outbreak.

Sicilian cherry tomatoes have been repeatedly named as the contagion source via genomic tracing.

Proper handling, cooking, and hygiene can greatly reduce risk, especially for high‑risk groups.

UK Food Industry Leaders Reaffirm Critical Support for the Amazon Soy Moratorium Amid Growing Threats

Over 50 top UK businesses, representing over 60% of the UK’s demand for soy, have reaffirmed their support for the Amazon Soy Moratorium (ASM), a groundbreaking, voluntary agreement that has substantially helped decouple soy production from deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon since it was introduced in 2008.

The message was delivered by the UK Soy Manifesto, whose signatories include some of the country’s most recognisable food industry leaders including leading UK supermarkets, large restaurant chains, food manufacturers and ingredients businesses. 

It's come at a critical moment, as the ASM faces mounting pressure from the agribusiness sector and new legislation that threatens to dismantle its protections.

New state-level legislation in Brazil - including the withdrawal of tax incentives for companies adhering to the ASM –is widely viewed as an attempt to weaken the effectiveness and international credibility of the Moratorium, which is backed by a wide range of NGOs including Greenpeace and WWF.

“The ASM has been one of the most effective voluntary agreements in tackling deforestation. Weakening it now risks reversing one of the most successful forest conservation models in modern history,” Jonathan Gorman, Secretariat, UK Soy Manifesto told That's Food and Drink.

Since its adoption, the ASM has helped prevent the conversion of over 1.8 million hectares of Amazon forest. Today, over 98% of soy grown in the Amazon biome is compliant, meaning soy is now responsible for just 0.2% of direct deforestation in the region.

If the Moratorium were to collapse it would undermine the efforts of global supply chain actors – farmers, soy traders, feed producers and food companies - committed to supporting sustainable production of soy and remove long standing supply chain controls.

It would also harm Brazil’s international standing as a sustainable producer just as it prepares to host COP30.

It doesn't prevent future soy production: 1.7m hectares of land on existing soy properties cleared prior to 2008 could be used for expanded soy production without encroaching on protected forests and risking  further deforestation.

The UK Soy Manifesto is calling on all parties to maintain and strengthen the Moratorium as a vital safeguard for the Amazon rainforest and the global climate.

The full statement from the UK Soy Manifesto can be found at the below link

https://www.uksoymanifesto.uk

Flawsome! Reveals Its Latest Masterpiece 1L Cold-Pressed Juices in Gallery-worthy Cartons

Flawsome!, the brand known for turning so-called “wonky” surplus fruit into delicious cold-pressed juice, is launching its boldest range yet: 1L ambient cold-pressed juices in its most iconic flavours: Sweet & Sour Apple, and Orange, with the full collection to be revealed soon.

Developed specifically for out-of-home (OOH) and at-home consumption, this larger format offers all the flavour and in a new gallery-worthy carton inspired by the old masters of the art world. It’s designed to look beautiful on a bar, in a restaurant, and your own kitchen shelf.

“We call it a masterpiece for a reason. It’s made with the same cold-pressed craft as our smaller bottles, only now it’s dressed in gallery-inspired packaging and scaled to help save even more wonky fruit,” Karina Sudenyte, co-founder of Flawsome! told That's Food and Drink.

Flawsome! juices are already poured at The Royal Opera House or British Library, but this new 1L format is designed to go even further. It aligns with 2025’s predicted growth in large-format juice, and the rising demand for healthier, sustainable, aesthetically pleasing, and at-home-friendly options.

Why Now?

◦ The UK juice market is evolving: While total volume is predicted to dip slightly, 1L formats are growing due to shifting habits and consumers becoming more and more health conscious.

◦ At-home juice consumption is booming: Projected to reach 950 million litres by 2025.

◦ OOH remains strong, with over 116 million litres expected to be consumed in 2025.

◦ Flawsome! plans to quadruple production in two years, with this format at the forefront.

And in true Flawsome! style, this isn’t just about juice, it’s about saving more wonky fruit from being wasted.

The 1L range is also part of the brand’s ongoing strategy to mitigate the impact of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), by introducing more efficient and sustainable packaging at scale.

Available from July through Brakes, Bidfood, DDC, and a growing list of leading wholesalers soon to be announced.

Cold-Pressed. 100% Juice. 0% Boring.

Perfect for smoothies, cocktails, or let the juice stand alone at its own work of art.

This range is as versatile as it is beautiful.

Want to taste it? Stock it? Serve it at your next gallery opening or brunch service?

Reach out, they're pouring soon! 

https://flawsomedrinks.com

Today's The Day! Celebrate National Blackcurrant Day: A Berry British Treasure

Every 15th July, we celebrate National Blackcurrant Day,  a day to honour one of Britain’s most beloved and overlooked berries. 

While strawberries and raspberries often steal the limelight, the humble blackcurrant deserves its moment to shine. From its deep, tangy flavour to its impressive nutritional benefits, the blackcurrant is truly a national treasure.

A Brief History of the Blackcurrant in Britain

Blackcurrants have long been part of British gardens and countryside hedgerows. During the Second World War, when citrus fruits were hard to import, the UK government promoted blackcurrants as a rich source of vitamin C. 

Many of us will fondly remember the sweet, rich taste of blackcurrant cordial,  particularly the iconic Ribena, launched in 1938 and fortified with vitamin C. And still going strong nearly 90 years later!

Today, the UK produces around 90% of the world’s blackcurrant crop, most of it still destined for juice and cordial, though awareness of its culinary versatility is growing.

Why Celebrate Blackcurrants?

1. Nutritional Powerhouse

Blackcurrants are packed with vitamin C, more than three times the amount found in oranges, and are also rich in antioxidants, fibre, and anthocyanins, which give them their deep purple hue. These compounds support immune health, heart function, and may even help fight inflammation.

2. A Taste Like No Other

With their tart, tangy flavour and dark richness, blackcurrants are unique among berries. They lend themselves beautifully to jams, sauces, desserts, and even savoury dishes.

3. A True British Crop

Over 3,500 acres of UK farmland are dedicated to growing blackcurrants. The berries thrive in Britain’s cooler climate, and growers have worked closely with scientists to develop hardy, flavourful varieties.

How to Celebrate National Blackcurrant Day

Cook with blackcurrants: Bake a blackcurrant crumble, add them to a pavlova, or simmer them into a tangy sauce for pork or lamb.

Sip the flavour: Enjoy a glass of traditional blackcurrant cordial, or mix up a blackcurrant gin cocktail.

Visit a pick-your-own farm: July is the peak season for fresh blackcurrants, perfect for a summer’s day out.

Support local producers: Look for artisan jams, juices, and preserves that use British-grown blackcurrants.

Get the kids involved: Make homemade blackcurrant lollies or add them to yoghurt for a healthy treat.

Blackcurrants in Popular Culture

Blackcurrants have long been a staple of British food culture. While Ribena is perhaps the most famous blackcurrant product, you’ll also find the flavour in everything from fruit gums to herbal teas.

Interestingly, blackcurrants were banned in the United States for decades due to concerns they helped spread a tree disease affecting the timber industry. Though the ban has now been lifted in many states, they remain far less common across the pond, making them all the more uniquely British.

A Berry to Be Proud Of

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to this deeply British berry, National Blackcurrant Day is the perfect time to rediscover its charms. Tangy, nutritious, and steeped in history, the blackcurrant is more than worthy of celebration.

So why not pick up a punnet, pour a cordial, or pop a blackcurrant sweet, and raise a toast to one of the UK's finest fruits?

Granulated Sugar Substitutes – The Sweet Alternatives That Look and Act Like Sugar

Whether you're cutting back on sugar for health reasons, managing diabetes, or simply trying to live a more balanced lifestyle, finding a good sugar substitute that doesn't feel like a compromise can be tricky. 

Fortunately, there are now several granulated sugar alternatives that mimic the texture, appearance, and sweetness of real sugar, making them perfect for baking, beverages, and everyday use.

Here’s a closer look at some of the best granulated sugar substitutes available in the UK, how they compare to sugar, and what to consider when using them.

What Makes a Good Granulated Sugar Substitute?

Not all sweeteners are created equal. Some come in liquid form, others are intensely sweet and must be used sparingly, while a few, our focus here, are granulated and can be used one-for-one like regular sugar. The best ones:

Have a similar texture to sugar

Are suitable for cooking and baking

Don’t leave a strange aftertaste

Have fewer calories or a lower glycaemic impact

Top Granulated Sugar Substitutes to Try

1. Erythritol

Sweetness: About 70% as sweet as sugar

Calories: Almost zero

Pros: Bakes well, no impact on blood sugar, tooth-friendly

Cons: Can cause digestive discomfort in large quantities

Often sold under brand names like Sukrin or PureVia, erythritol is popular for its sugar-like crystal structure and clean, neutral taste.

2. Xylitol

Sweetness: Equal to sugar

Calories: Around 2.4 per gram (about 40% fewer than sugar)

Pros: Same sweetness and texture as sugar, good for teeth

Cons: Toxic to dogs, may cause stomach upset in some people

Brands such as Total Sweet offer xylitol in granulated form, ideal for hot drinks and baking.

3. Stevia Blends (with Erythritol)

Sweetness: Same as sugar when blended

Calories: Very low

Pros: Natural origin, great for baking, widely available

Cons: Pure stevia can be bitter, blends are better. Also some people report being allergic to stevia.

Look for products like Natvia or Truvia Baking Blend, which combine stevia with erythritol to reduce aftertaste and create a sugar-like texture.

4. Allulose (Still limited in the UK)

Sweetness: About 70% as sweet as sugar

Calories: Nearly zero

Pros: Caramelises like sugar, no blood sugar spike

Cons: Expensive and harder to find in the UK

While not yet widely available here, allulose is gaining interest among foodies and low-carb bakers for its impressive baking properties.

5. Inulin-Based Sweeteners

Sweetness: Varies (often blended with stevia or erythritol)

Calories: Low

Pros: Prebiotic benefits, subtle sweetness

Cons: Can affect digestive system

Brands like Sukrin Fibre Syrup Gold or certain own-label 'fibre sweeteners' use inulin to mimic sugar with added health perks.

Tips for Baking with Sugar Substitutes

Check ratios: Some sweeteners are more or less sweet than sugar. Always read the label for conversion.

Watch browning: Not all substitutes caramelise, so baked goods may not brown like traditional recipes.

Texture matters: Sugar provides structure in baking. Consider adding apple purée, yoghurt, or eggs to maintain moisture.

Start small: Some people need time to adjust to the taste of sugar alternatives.

Where to Buy

You can find these granulated sugar alternatives in most UK supermarkets (look in the baking aisle or 'free from' section), as well as online retailers like Amazon, Holland & Barrett, and specialist low-carb food shops.

In Summary

Sugar substitutes have come a long way, and today's granulated options can help you enjoy your favourite recipes with fewer health risks and just as much sweetness. Whether you're after calorie control, managing diabetes, or just want to shake off the sugar habit, there’s a granulated option out there that fits your needs.

Have you tried any of these in your baking or tea? Let us know your favourites, or any recipe disasters, in the comments below!