How Foodies Can Celebrate National Give Something Away Day

Every 15th of July, National Give Something Away Day is a wonderful reminder that generosity can come in all shapes and sizes, and for food lovers, it’s the perfect opportunity to share the joy of good food. 

Whether you're a home cook, a foodie influencer, or a local café owner, there are plenty of creative and meaningful ways to participate in this day of giving.

Here are some deliciously thoughtful ways foodies can give back and make a difference.

1. Cook and Share a Homemade Meal

If you love to cook, why not prepare a meal or baked treat and give it to someone in need? This could be a neighbour who lives alone, a busy parent, or even a local homeless shelter (do check their donation guidelines first). A warm meal made with care is often more appreciated than you might imagine.

2. Create a Free Pantry Box or Food Swap

Set up a small free pantry or food swap in your community where people can leave or take non-perishable items. You could start with surplus tins, packets of pasta, herbs, or homegrown veg from your garden. Label it clearly and invite others to contribute.

3. Donate to a Food Bank or Community Fridge

Food banks and community fridges are always in need of donations. National Give Something Away Day is a great excuse to go through your cupboards and donate items you won’t use. Better still, include treats and ingredients that add joy — like herbal teas, good coffee, or a jar of local honey.

4. Host a Pay-It-Forward Coffee or Meal Scheme

If you run a café or restaurant, consider introducing a "pay-it-forward" option for the day. Customers can pay in advance for a coffee or meal for someone else to claim later. It’s a simple yet powerful act of generosity that helps build community spirit.

5. Give Away Recipes or Cooking Tips

Share your best recipes or kitchen hacks online or in print. You could create a free downloadable mini-cookbook, post a “how-to” video on social media, or print recipe cards to hand out with donated meals. Sharing knowledge is just as valuable as sharing food!

6. Treat Your Team or Colleagues

Work in food retail or hospitality? Surprise your team with homemade snacks, a shared lunch, or a box of pastries. A small gesture can boost morale and show appreciation for the hard work they do, especially in a fast-paced industry.

7. Gift an Unused Gadget or Cookware Item

That slow cooker or bread machine collecting dust? Someone else could make great use of it. Offer unused or gently used kitchen tools to friends, local shelters, or student accommodation groups. Post on community forums like Freecycle, Olio, or local Facebook groups.

8. Host a Free Tasting or Pop-Up

If you're a food business or blogger, consider hosting a free mini tasting session. Let locals try a new dish, flavour combination, or product. It’s a lovely way to connect with the community, gain feedback, and share your passion.

Food brings people together and on National Give Something Away Day, that power to connect, comfort, and delight is more important than ever. Whether it’s a warm loaf of bread, a helpful recipe, or just your time and effort, giving something away from the heart always feeds the soul.

So go ahead, foodies, share a bite of kindness today.

How to Optimise Your Protein Intake

Finding the sweet spot with protein isn’t just about cramming in more chicken breasts or chugging protein shakes. 

It’s about matching quality and timing to your individual needs,  and doing so in a way that supports long‑term health (and, in these climate‑concerned times, the planet). 

Below is a practical protein guide.

1. Why protein matters

Protein supplies essential amino acids for muscle repair, bone health, enzyme and hormone production, immune defence and even the production of neurotransmitters that influence mood and sleep. Deficiency is rare in the UK, but sub‑optimal intake – or concentrating it all in one meal – can limit muscle maintenance and satiety, especially as we age or train hard. 

2. Prioritise quality & variety

Complete proteins (contain all nine essential amino acids): meat, fish, eggs, dairy, soy, quinoa.

Complementary plant combos: grains + pulses (e.g., whole‑grain toast with baked beans) or seeds + legumes.

Leucine threshold: ~2.7 g leucine (≈25–30 g high‑quality protein) per serving flips the switch for muscle‑protein synthesis. 

Eco‑health tip: shift at least one daily protein serving to pulses, nuts or seeds they deliver fibre and cut saturated fat. 

British Nutrition Foundation

3. Distribute it through the day

Most Britons load ~60 % of their protein at dinner, leaving breakfast light on amino acids. Evenly spreading protein – breakfast, lunch, dinner (plus a snack if required) – boosts 24‑hour MPS, stabilises blood sugar and curbs cravings. 

4. Practical high‑protein swaps

Meal or snack Typical pick (g protein) Simple upgrade (g protein)

Cereal + semi‑skimmed milk 9 g Overnight oats with Greek yoghurt, milk and chia (20 g)

Cheese sandwich 13 g Whole‑grain wrap with hummus + sliced chicken (25 g)

Crisps 2 g Roasted chickpeas or broad‑bean snacks (10 g)

Ice cream 4 g Cottage‑cheese whippy frozen with berries (18 g)

5. Supplements: when food isn’t enough

Whey or plant‑based powders are convenient, not compulsory. Handy if you’re on the go, recovering from illness, or have very high targets.

Collagen peptides may aid joint and skin health but are incomplete proteins – pair with a complete source.

Check labels: aim for ≥20 g protein, <3 g sugar per serving, and look for third‑party testing (e.g., Informed‑Sport) if you compete.

6. Common pitfalls to avoid

Peanut‑butter trap: two tablespoons supply 8 g protein but 16 g fat – treat it as a healthy fat source. 

Protein‑fortified biscuits: often processed, pricey and low in fibre.

All‑at‑dinner loading: hampers MPS and may leave you hungry earlier in the day.

Ignoring veg intake: use beans, lentils and tofu to raise protein and fibre, aiding gut health and cholesterol control. 

7. Take‑home message 

Calculate a personal range (0.75 g/kg for most; up to 2 g/kg for serious lifters).

Spread 25–30 g quality protein across at least three meals.

Mix animal and plant sources to cover amino acids, boost fibre and cut saturated fat.

Review needs with age, training load or medical conditions (seek professional advice if you have kidney disease, are pregnant, or follow a therapeutic diet).

Balanced, well‑timed protein isn’t just fuel for muscles, it underpins immunity, hormone balance, healthy ageing and weight control. Upgrade your plate, not just your portion size, and you’ll feel the benefits in every bite.

How to Use Social Media and Memes for Free to Promote Your Food and Drink Business

Whether you're running a cosy bakery, a stylish café, or a charming small hotel, social media is one of the most powerful tools you can use to promote your food and drink business, and best of all, it’s free. 

In an era where attention spans are short and competition is fierce, memes and creative content can help you stand out from the crowd, connect with your audience, and boost your brand visibility.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Choose the Right Platforms for Your Brand

Not all social media platforms are created equal, especially when it comes to food and drink. Focus on the ones where your ideal customers spend the most time.

Instagram: Perfect for showcasing beautiful food photography, daily specials, behind-the-scenes shots, and Reels.

Facebook: Great for connecting with local communities, sharing events, and posting menus.

TikTok: Ideal for short, snappy videos, kitchen hacks, or funny hospitality moments.

X (formerly Twitter): Useful for witty banter, trending memes, and quick customer interactions.

Pinterest: Excellent for recipe content, party planning ideas, and seasonal inspiration.

YouTube: Long or short videos

2. Use Memes to Build a Relatable Brand Voice

Memes are one of the internet’s favourite languages. They’re fun, shareable, and great for showing off your personality. Whether it’s a trending format or a food-related pun, memes can help humanise your brand and make you more relatable.

Tips for meme success:

Keep it on-brand: Use humour that aligns with your business values and target customers.

Stay timely: Jump on popular formats and trends (like Barbie, "No one: Absolutely no one:", or AI jokes) while they’re still fresh.

Use free tools: Canva, Imgflip, or Meme Generator allow you to create memes in minutes.

Example:

A bakery meme during exam season:

"Me: I’m going to be healthy this week. Also me: Buys six brownies to cope with stress."

📸 Include a shot of your brownies and a cheeky caption: “We’re here for emotional support. Always.”

3. Showcase Your Day-to-Day with Authentic Content

Customers love to see the people behind the food. Use Stories, Reels or TikToks to show:

How your croissants are made

The staff prepping for a busy breakfast

New cocktail recipes being tested

Guests enjoying a Sunday roast

Keep it real and fun, you don’t need polished video production. A bit of humour, a happy tune, and a peek behind the curtain go a long way.

4. Ride the Trends. But Put a Foodie Spin on It

Jumping on trends is a free way to boost visibility. Monitor trending hashtags and challenges and think about how they could apply to your business.

Dance challenges → Your bar staff making cocktails in rhythm

Voiceover trends → A dramatised take on your daily delivery arriving late

Seasonal trends → Pumpkin spice everything? Share your version with a wink.

Tools like TikTok’s “Discover” tab or Instagram’s “Explore” section are great for spotting what’s hot.

5. Encourage and Repost User-Generated Content

Happy customers often post about their meals. Encourage them to tag your business and then reshare their posts (with permission). It’s free publicity and adds authenticity.

Offer a small incentive: “Tag us in your post and you might win a free coffee.”

Create a hashtag for your brand: e.g., #BrewedAtTheBay or #StickyToffeeSnaps

6. Schedule and Plan for Consistency

Using social media doesn’t have to take up your whole day. Free scheduling tools like Meta Business Suite or Buffer allow you to plan your content in advance. Aim for a mix of:

Product photos

Behind-the-scenes

Customer reviews

Humorous memes

Local collaborations or events

7. Join Local Conversations

Don’t underestimate the power of your local community online. Join local Facebook groups, tag other local businesses, and comment on posts where appropriate. Memes that tap into shared local experiences (“that moment when the seagull steals your chips on the promenade”) are great for engagement. But be careful not to hijack conversations as that never ends well. 

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a marketing agency or a massive budget to get people talking about your food and drink business. All it takes is consistency, creativity, and a willingness to have a bit of fun. Memes and social media let you tell your story, share your values, and build relationships with customers – one funny post or delicious photo at a time.

So go ahead – bake it ‘til you make it. 

The meme image illustrating this blogpost was created by me using https://imgflip.com/memegenerator

The Rise of Vegan Sushi: A Fresh Wave in Plant-Based Dining

Sushi has long been a staple of Japanese cuisine, loved around the world for its delicate flavours, artistic presentation, and versatility. 

Traditionally centred around raw fish and seafood, sushi might not seem an obvious choice for those following a vegan or plant-based lifestyle. 

But that’s rapidly changing. An exciting culinary revolution is underway, and vegan sushi is making serious waves.

Why the Sudden Surge?

Several key factors are driving the upsurge in vegan sushi:

Growing Veganism: As more people embrace plant-based diets for health, ethical, or environmental reasons, chefs and restaurateurs are innovating to meet demand. Vegan sushi offers an elegant and nutritious option that appeals to vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians alike.

Sustainability Concerns: Overfishing, marine pollution, and habitat destruction have sparked greater awareness around the environmental impact of seafood. Vegan sushi removes the reliance on fish while keeping the artistry and enjoyment intact.

Health Consciousness: Many traditional sushi rolls use fatty fish like tuna or salmon. Vegan versions, made with vegetables, tofu, or legumes, are typically lower in saturated fats and free from mercury and microplastics sometimes found in seafood.

Culinary Creativity: Vegan sushi isn’t just about replacing fish, it’s about reimagining the dish entirely. Chefs are using inventive ingredients like marinated aubergine to mimic eel (unagi), tomato sashimi in place of tuna, and even watermelon “nigiri”. Avocado, cucumber, pickled radish, and shiitake mushrooms have also found a permanent place on vegan sushi menus.

What's In Vegan Sushi?

A wide variety of ingredients can be found in today’s vegan sushi, such as:

Tofu and Tempeh – grilled, marinated, or smoked for protein-rich fillings

Jackfruit – shredded and seasoned to resemble crab or pulled fish

Seaweed – for that familiar umami taste of the ocean

Fruits and Vegetables – mango, avocado, beetroot, asparagus, carrot, courgette

Plant-Based Creams – cashew or coconut-based sauces to mimic spicy mayo or wasabi mayo

Pickles and Ferments – pickled ginger, daikon, and kimchi for tang and texture

Where to Find Vegan Sushi in the UK

Vegan sushi isn’t confined to niche eateries anymore. High street brands like Itsu, Wasabi, and YO! Sushi now include plant-based options in their line-up. Independent vegan and fusion restaurants across London, Manchester, Bristol, and Edinburgh are also turning out stunningly beautiful vegan sushi platters.

Some British supermarkets carry vegan sushi including Morrison's Waitrose, Tesco and Salisbury's.

For those who like to try their hand in the kitchen, making vegan sushi at home has become easier than ever. You can find sushi-making kits online or in major supermarkets, along with easy-to-follow recipes using common ingredients.

Is Vegan Sushi Here to Stay?

Absolutely. Far from being a fad, vegan sushi is part of a broader shift towards sustainable, ethical, and health-conscious eating. It allows diners to enjoy the elegance and satisfaction of sushi while aligning with their values. As plant-based cuisine continues to evolve, vegan sushi is likely to become even more innovative, diverse, and accessible.

Whether you're a committed vegan or just curious to explore new food trends, vegan sushi offers a fresh, flavoursome alternative that's as good for the planet as it is for your tastebuds. It’s a vibrant example of how culinary tradition can be reimagined in creative, compassionate, and delicious ways.

Catering for Coeliac Guests – From Cafés to Luxury Hotels

With Coeliac disease affecting something in the order of 1 in 100 people in the UK, catering for gluten-free needs isn’t just a nice extra, it’s a vital necessity. 

From the smallest café to the grandest hotel restaurant, creating a safe and welcoming dining experience for Coeliac guests is both a moral responsibility and a smart business move.

Understanding Coeliac Disease

Coeliac disease isn't a food fad or lifestyle choice. It is a serious autoimmune condition triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.

Even trace amounts can cause significant harm, leading to long-term health issues like malnutrition, osteoporosis, and even infertility. For someone with Coeliac disease, “gluten-free” must mean exactly that.

The Importance of Going Beyond the Label

Simply offering a few gluten-free options isn't really not enough if there is a genuine risk of cross-contamination. For many Coeliacs, eating out can feel like navigating a minefield, one misinformed staff member or one contaminated chopping board can lead to days or even weeks of illness.

Whether you run a local tearoom or a Michelin-starred hotel kitchen, ensuring your venue is truly Coeliac-safe means taking food safety and staff training seriously.

Tips for Safely Catering to Coeliac Guests

1. Staff Training Is Essential

Everyone, from the front-of-house team to the pot washers, needs to understand what Coeliac disease is and how to prevent cross-contamination. Servers should be confident in explaining which dishes are safe and what procedures are in place.

2. Dedicated Prep Areas and Utensils

If you’re serious about serving Coeliac guests, set up separate gluten-free prep areas, utensils, toasters, and fryers. Flour particles can linger in the air or cling to surfaces, so thorough cleaning routines are key.

3. Clear and Accurate Labelling

Menus should clearly label gluten-free options and be backed up by a kitchen that understands what that means. Avoid vague terms like “low gluten” or “gluten-friendly”, which can mislead or confuse.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Say No

It’s better to explain honestly that you can’t safely cater for Coeliac disease than to serve something risky. Transparency builds trust.

5. Offer Variety

Too often, gluten-free diners are left with just one option, usually a rather boring salad. Be creative. Think risottos, naturally gluten-free world cuisines like Mexican or Indian, or gluten-free baked goods. Partnering with local gluten-free bakers can also boost your menu.

6. Get Accredited

Consider working towards Coeliac UK’s Gluten Free Accreditation. It’s a mark of trust that tells customers you take their dietary needs seriously and can open doors to new business opportunities.

Benefits for Your Business

Catering properly for Coeliac disease isn’t just about one customer — it’s about the group they bring with them. Families, friends, and colleagues all make dining decisions together, and many will favour places where their Coeliac loved one can eat safely.

Venues that take this seriously often find they build a loyal customer base, earn glowing reviews, and stand out in an increasingly health-conscious market.

Catering for Coeliacs is about more than ticking a box. It’s about empathy, education, and a commitment to making dining out safe and enjoyable for everyone. 

Whether you’re serving lattes and lunches in a village café or curating a five-course tasting menu in a luxury hotel, getting gluten-free right is a win-win for your guests and your reputation.

https://www.coeliac.org.uk

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!