Rediscovering Britain’s Culinary Past: Researching Regional Traditional Foods

When you think of traditional British food, your mind might jump to fish and chips or roast beef with Yorkshire pudding. 

But dig a little deeper and you’ll find a rich, diverse tapestry of local specialities that tell the story of each region’s culture, resources, and culinary ingenuity. 

From Shrewsbury biscuits to jellied eels, researching and rediscovering traditional foods is not only fascinating—it’s a vital way of preserving our food heritage.

Why Regional Foods Matter

Regional dishes are more than just recipes—they are edible history. Often shaped by the local climate, agriculture, and even religion, these foods reflect centuries of innovation and adaptation. By exploring them, we get a window into how communities lived, ate, and celebrated.

Whether you're a food blogger, a curious home cook, or simply someone who loves learning about British culture, researching traditional foods can be a deeply rewarding journey.

Starting Points for Food Research

Local Archives and Libraries

Many towns and counties have their own historical societies, local archives, and libraries that hold cookbooks, pamphlets, and diaries featuring regional dishes. Market Drayton, for example, proudly promotes its claim to being the “home of gingerbread”—and recipes dating back centuries can still be found in local collections.

Oral Histories and Community Groups

Chatting with older generations in a local café, pub, or market can be a treasure trove of information. Recipes and cooking traditions were often passed down orally, and many older residents still remember dishes their parents and grandparents made.

Museums and Food Festivals

The Black Country Living Museum offers not only insights into industrial heritage but also the foods that fuelled the workers—like faggots and peas, a hearty favourite. Food festivals, like the Ludlow Food Festival or Abergavenny Food Festival, often have heritage food demonstrations and talks.

Cookbooks and Food Writers

Writers like Dorothy Hartley, who penned Food in England in the 1950s, preserved vast amounts of culinary history. Modern authors also delve into rediscovering lost recipes, and can be excellent starting points for further exploration.

Celebrated Regional Dishes to Explore

Here are just a few of the UK’s lesser-known but deeply loved regional foods worth researching and possibly recreating:

Shrewsbury Biscuits (Shropshire)

These crisp, buttery treats date back to at least the 16th century and were once a popular gift for travellers and dignitaries. Often flavoured with lemon zest or caraway seeds.

Market Drayton Gingerbread (Shropshire)

Spicy and dark, this gingerbread has long been associated with the market town of Drayton. Traditional recipes use treacle or molasses and a heavy hand with the ginger.

Black Country Faggots and Peas (West Midlands)

A traditional working-class dish, faggots are meatballs made from pork offal, herbs, and breadcrumbs, usually served with mushy peas and a rich gravy. Once a staple in the region’s pubs and homes.

Jellied Eels (London, particularly East End)

Originally a cheap and plentiful dish for London’s working class, jellied eels are a love-it-or-hate-it delicacy that reflect the resourcefulness of East End cuisine.

Cornish Stargazy Pie

A fish pie with pilchards whose heads poke through the pastry lid, this dramatic-looking dish hails from Cornwall and has roots in fishing folklore.

Bakewell Pudding (Derbyshire)

Often confused with the Bakewell tart, the original pudding is a rich almond and jam dessert created by accident in the 19th century.

Bringing the Past Into Your Kitchen

Researching regional foods can lead to exciting experiments in your own kitchen. Often, recipes use ingredients still readily available, others may require some creativity or substitution. Try sourcing ingredients from local producers where possible to stay true to the regional spirit.

A Living History

What’s most exciting about traditional foods is that they’re not just part of the past, they’re still living traditions. Small bakeries still make Shrewsbury biscuits. Market stalls sell Black Country faggots. And yes, East End pie and mash shops still serve jellied eels. By learning about and sharing these foods, we help keep these traditions alive.

Final Thoughts

From coast to countryside, every British region has something delicious and meaningful to share. Whether you’re planning a food-themed travel blog, a historical deep dive, or simply want to spice up your Sunday supper, researching regional British dishes is an enriching adventure.

Tip for Bloggers and Food Historians:

Consider making your own digital or physical map of regional specialities to highlight where they originated and how they’ve evolved. And don't forget to credit local communities and sources when sharing traditional recipes, they’re the true keepers of this delicious legacy.

How to Find a Decent Hotel, Pub, Café or Restaurant When You're Away from Home

Whether you're heading off for a business trip, a countryside weekend break, or a coastal holiday, finding a reliable place to stay, eat or grab a coffee can make or break your experience. 

But with so many options available, how do you separate the gems from the duds—especially in unfamiliar areas?

Here are some tried-and-tested tips for finding a decent hotel, pub, café or restaurant when you’re away from home, including a handy mention of the Wetherspoon app and hotel list for reliable budget-friendly choices.

1. Use Trusted Review Platforms

Websites and apps like TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and Yelp are your first port of call. They provide up-to-date feedback from real customers and usually include photos, menus, and info on opening hours and amenities. Be sure to read both the good and bad reviews to get a balanced perspective. Pay particular attention to recent reviews to gauge consistency.

2. Ask the Locals

Taxi drivers, shop staff, and hotel receptionists are often fountains of local knowledge. If you want somewhere authentic and not too touristy, ask a local where they go for lunch, a pint, or Sunday dinner. You're more likely to discover hidden gems this way.

3. Look for Busy Spots

A full café or pub is usually a good sign. If the locals are flocking there, chances are the food and service are worth it. Conversely, an empty establishment during peak hours might be a red flag.

4. Check for Hygiene Ratings

In the UK, food hygiene ratings are public and searchable online through the Food Standards Agency. Look for establishments with a rating of 4 or 5 stars for peace of mind. Many places display their rating sticker in the window or door, always worth a glance before you walk in.

5. Use the Wetherspoon App and Hotel List

If you’re unsure where to go and want a safe bet, Wetherspoon pubs can be a reliable fallback. With hundreds of locations across the UK, including hotels, they offer consistent food, affordable prices, and usually free Wi-Fi.

Wetherspoon App: This free app allows you to find your nearest Wetherspoon pub or hotel, browse menus, and even order food and drinks straight to your table without queuing at the bar.

Wetherspoon Hotels: The chain now offers over 50 hotels in historic buildings and central locations across the UK. They tend to be clean, centrally located, and very reasonably priced, too. So ideal for solo travellers or families on a budget. You can browse the full list and book directly via the Wetherspoon website.

6. Social Media and Local Blogs

Instagram and TikTok are packed with foodie reviews and travel tips. Try searching hashtags like #BestBrunchIn[CityName] or #HiddenGemsUK. Local bloggers often share honest reviews and up-to-date recommendations on where to eat or stay.

7. Check the Menu First

Before committing to a meal or drink, take a moment to look at the menu outside or online. Is there a good variety? Are there vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free options if needed? Are the prices reasonable for the area? All of this can help you avoid disappointment.

Finding a decent place to eat, drink or stay doesn’t need to be stressful. With a bit of local knowledge, a quick online check, and the help of user-friendly tools like the Wetherspoon app, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your time away from home.

Happy exploring, and may your next cup of coffee, pint or overnight stay be exactly what you hoped for!

Have a favourite app, method or place to recommend when you're away from home? Let us know in the comments below!

Dairy vs. Non-Dairy Milk: What’s Better for Your Health?

As plant-based diets rise in popularity and more people explore alternatives to cow’s milk, the debate between dairy and non-dairy milk products is becoming increasingly common. 

But which is better for you? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your nutritional needs, lifestyle, and any dietary restrictions. 

In this blog post, we’ll compare the nutritional profiles of dairy and non-dairy milks to help you make an informed choice.

Dairy Milk: Nutritional Overview

Cow’s milk is a natural source of several key nutrients:

Protein: About 8g per cup, containing all essential amino acids.

Calcium: Naturally rich, providing about 300mg per cup.

Vitamin D: Usually fortified in the UK to help with calcium absorption.

Vitamin B12: Important for energy and nerve health.

Iodine: A critical nutrient for thyroid function.

Pros:

High-quality, complete protein.

Nutritionally dense, especially in essential vitamins and minerals.

Beneficial for bone health due to calcium and vitamin D.

Cons:

Not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy.

Higher in saturated fat (especially whole milk).

Ethical and environmental concerns around dairy farming.

Non-Dairy Milk: Nutritional Overview

Plant-based milk alternatives include soya, almond, oat, coconut, rice, pea, and more. Their nutritional value can vary dramatically depending on the type and whether they’re fortified.

Soya Milk

Closest in protein to dairy (7–8g per cup).

Often fortified with calcium, vitamin D, B12.

Low in saturated fat.

Almond Milk

Very low in calories and protein.

Often fortified but contains fewer nutrients than dairy or soya milk.

Oat Milk

Moderate in calories and carbohydrates.

Some brands are fortified; offers some fibre.

Creamier texture, good for coffee or cooking.

Coconut Milk (Carton-style)

Low in protein.

Contains some medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), but also high in saturated fat.

Pea Milk

Higher in protein (6–8g per cup).

Environmentally friendly and hypoallergenic.

Pros:

Suitable for vegans and those with dairy allergies or intolerances.

Lower in saturated fat.

Often fortified with key vitamins and minerals.

Cons:

Not all brands are fortified equally — always check the label.

Lower in protein, unless you choose soya or pea milk.

Can be more processed and contain additives like gums or sweeteners. Some brands of pea milk actually taste a little like weak pea soup.

Which Is Better?

It depends on what you need:

For protein: Dairy, soya, or pea milk are best.

For bone health: Choose dairy or a well-fortified plant milk.

For weight management: Almond or unsweetened plant milks may help due to lower calories.

For allergies or ethical reasons: Fortified plant milks are a good dairy-free alternative.

For sustainability: Oat and pea milk generally have a lower environmental footprint than dairy.

Bottom Line

There’s no universal “best” milk, just what’s best for you. If you’re drinking milk for its nutritional benefits, opt for unsweetened versions and check for fortification. Whether you prefer dairy or a plant-based option, the key is making sure it supports your dietary needs and lifestyle.

Tip: Always read the label. Look for added calcium (at least 120mg per 100ml), B12, vitamin D, and no added sugars for the healthiest choices.

We All Agree Ultra-Processed Foods Are a Problem – But What Comes Next?

What are they doing to our foods?

Over the past decade, there's been growing consensus among nutritionists, public health experts, and everyday shoppers: ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are bad news. 

They're linked to rising obesity rates, metabolic diseases, gut health issues, and even mental health concerns. 

But now that the alarm has sounded, a crucial question remains, what do we do about it?

How can individuals, businesses, and the wider food industry move away from ultra-processed options and return to real, nourishing food?

What Are Ultra-Processed Foods?

Ultra-processed foods go beyond simple convenience. These are products that contain little or no whole ingredients and are made mostly from substances extracted from foods (such as oils, fats, starches, sugar), derived from food constituents (like hydrogenated fats or modified starch), or synthesised in laboratories (such as flavour enhancers, colourings, emulsifiers).

Think ready meals, crisps, mass-produced cakes, sugary cereals, fizzy drinks, processed meats, and many meat substitutes. The problem isn’t just in one or two ingredients, it’s in the entire approach to production.

Why Are They So Widespread?

The answer is simple: profit, shelf life, and consumer convenience.

Ultra-processed foods are cheap to make, can sit on shelves for months, and are engineered to be irresistible. For manufacturers and retailers, they’ve been a dream. For public health? A nightmare.

But now the tide is turning.

How Can the Food Industry Change?

The shift won’t happen overnight, but it is possible. Here’s how the food industry can begin to move away from ultra-processing:

1. Prioritise Minimal Processing

Food companies can commit to reducing additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients. This might mean shorter shelf lives or different distribution models, but consumers are increasingly demanding clean labels.

2. Invest in Real Ingredients

Relying on whole grains, legumes, real fruit, vegetables, and quality fats can lead to nutritious and delicious products. Some brands are already doing this, proving that natural doesn’t have to mean boring or bland.

3. Transparency and Labelling

Clear labelling helps consumers make informed choices. Highlighting what’s not in the product (e.g. no artificial flavours, no hydrogenated fats) and listing ingredients people recognise can build trust.

4. Reformulate Existing Products

Rather than scrapping entire ranges, brands can reformulate favourites to reduce reliance on emulsifiers, gums, and colourants. Even small improvements in salt, sugar, and artificial content can make a difference. Perhaps seek out older recipes from the pre-UPF days?

5. Support Local and Seasonal Produce

Shorter supply chains using seasonal produce can reduce the need for preservatives. Regional food production also supports local economies and sustainability goals.

What Can Consumers Do?

While industry change is essential, consumer demand drives it. Here's how individuals can be part of the shift:

Cook more from scratch. Even just a few homemade meals a week can reduce your ultra-processed intake.

Shop the edges of the supermarket. Fresh produce, dairy, meat, and whole foods are usually on the perimeter, the middle aisles tend to house UPFs.

Read labels. If the ingredients list looks like a chemistry experiment, it probably isn’t the best choice.

Support small, ethical producers. Many independent brands are already embracing low-processing and sustainable practices.

The Way Forward

We can’t uninvent the convenience of ultra-processed foods. But we can rethink how we make and consume food. A future where taste, health, and convenience coexist, without compromising nutrition, is possible.

If the industry is bold enough to innovate in the right direction, and if consumers continue to demand better, we can replace the ultra-processed norm with something far better: real food.

Let’s keep the conversation going. Wwhat changes would you like to see in the food industry? Would you pay more for minimally processed, truly nutritious food? Share your thoughts in the comments below or on our socials. 

Good news for food allergy victims. Life‑saving adrenaline nasal spray now approved in the UK: EURneffy offers needle‑free treatment for anaphylaxis

UK first: needle‑free adrenaline for emergencies.

On 18 July 2025, the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) granted approval for the first-ever adrenaline (epinephrine) nasal spray, branded EURneffy, for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis in adults and children weighing 30 kg or more.

Until now, adrenaline has only been available in the UK via auto‑injector pens (AAIs), such as EpiPen or Jext. EURneffy marks an amazing major milestone by introducing a needle‑free, intranasal delivery option that could improve accessibility and reduce delays in treatment 

How does EURneffy work?

• Single‑dose 2 mg spray: delivers its entire contents in one activation.

• Designed to work even if the nose is congested, making it suitable during colds or allergy flare-ups 

• Longer shelf life (~30 months) and better temperature stability than traditional AAIs, potentially enhancing usability and reducing wastage 

Patients must be properly trained before they can use it. For example, pressing the plunger before inserting into the nostril will prematurely release the dose and render it unusable.

Who is it designed for?

EURneffy is approved for adults and children weighing at least 30 kg (that's approximately 66 lb), the same threshold as standard for adult auto‑injectors. 

It's intended for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis caused by food, insect stings or bites, medications, and other triggers, including exercise‑induced or idiopathic episodes 

Why it matters

Reduces barriers to prompt adrenaline use, especially for those with needle phobia or reluctance to carry bulky injectors 

Speeds up administration: delaying the use of adrenaline is known to worsen outcomes in anaphylactic emergencies 

Supports NHS effectiveness: longer shelf life and easier storage could prove more cost‑effective overall 

Safety profile & instructions

Clinical trial data (over 700 participants) showed EURneffy achieved comparable blood levels and blood pressure effects to intramuscular auto‑injectors 

Common side effects, especially if a second dose (total 4 mg) is given, include:

throat irritation

headache

nasal discomfort or tingling

feeling jittery 

Healthcare providers advise that two doses should always be carried. If symptoms persist or recur after 10 minutes, a second dose may be administered in the same nostril.

Hospital attendance remains essential even if symptoms improve.

Patient advice & next steps

Doctors will soon be able to prescribe EURneffy, subject to price and reimbursement agreements with the NHS Department of Health and Social Care.

Availability is expected in the latter part of the third quarter of the year.

Patients previously hesitant to use AAIs may find EURneffy a more acceptable alternative. Nonetheless, auto‑injectors remain the first‑line treatment and should still be carried and used when available.

Pharmaceutical Technology

Education and training are absolutely vital. The MHRA emphasises familiarisation with both AAI and nasal spray use, and reporting any suspected side‑effects via the Yellow Card scheme.

The UK’s approval of EURneffy represents a major advance in allergy care, a needle‑free, easy‑to‑carry emergency option for managing life‑threatening allergic reactions. 

It promises greater accessibility and reduced hesitation in using adrenaline when every second counts. While AAIs remain essential, EURneffy could redefine preparedness for many living with severe allergy risks in Britain.

Why Being Eco-friendly in Your Kitchen Could be Dangerous

In a world increasingly driven by sustainability goals and energy-saving measures, it’s understandable that food business owners, from bustling high-street cafés to top-tier hotel restaurants, and those at home are trying to reduce their environmental footprint. 

One popular tactic is to adjust refrigerators, freezers, air conditioning systems, and even dishwashers, to so-called eco-friendly settings.

But here’s the catch: what may seem like a green and money-saving move on the surface could actually have hidden consequences for food safety, product quality, and even your business's reputation.

The Dangers of Turning the Dial Up or Down

While turning the temperature dial up by a couple of degrees might shave off a few pounds on your energy bill, it could end up costing you much more if food safety is compromised. Here’s why:

1. Food Spoilage Risks Increase Dramatically

Commercial refrigeration units are designed to maintain specific temperatures to keep perishable items safe. For chilled foods, this is usually 0°C to 5°C. If the temperature creeps above that range, even by a couple of degrees, you enter the danger zone (5°C to 63°C), where bacteria such as Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli can multiply rapidly.

2. Cooler Dishwasher Settings Can Lead to Poor Hygiene

Many commercial dishwashers now offer an eco or low temperature mode to reduce energy usage. But while this may help the environment on paper, it can compromise hygiene in practice. Commercial kitchens must ensure dishwashers run hot enough—typically reaching at least 82°C during the rinse cycle—to sanitise crockery, cutlery, and kitchen tools effectively.

Using a cooler setting might leave behind:

Grease and food residue on dishes and cutlery

Bacteria or viruses that can spread illness

A cloudy or unpleasant film on glasses and utensils

Not only does this affect cleanliness and hygiene ratings, but it also undermines your guests’ confidence, especially in visible areas like open kitchens or buffet displays.

3. You Could Fail Environmental Health Inspections

UK food hygiene regulations, overseen by the Food Standards Agency (FSA), require strict temperature control in food storage and sanitisation. If an Environmental Health Officer finds that your fridge, freezer, or dishwasher is not meeting legal standards, you could face warnings or even closure.

4. Compromised Product Quality

Even if food doesn’t technically spoil, keeping it just a few degrees too warm can lead to subtle changes in taste, texture, and freshness. Dairy products may sour more quickly. Meats might discolour or become slimy. Fresh herbs wilt prematurely. All of this affects the dining experience—and customer satisfaction.

5. Your Insurance May Not Cover Losses

Many business insurance policies require that food is stored and cleaned at legally recommended temperatures. If you’ve adjusted your settings to a “green” mode that goes against guidelines and suffer a loss, your claim may be rejected.

Is There a Greener, Safer Way?

Absolutely. Eco-friendliness and food safety don’t have to be in conflict. Here are a few smart alternatives:

Invest in energy-efficient refrigeration and dishwashing equipment that meets high energy standards without compromising temperature performance.

Use fridge and dishwasher thermometers to verify that settings match actual output.

Maintain regular servicing of refrigeration, HVAC, and warewashing systems.

Train staff thoroughly to avoid wasteful habits like overloading units or running half-empty dishwashers on full cycles.

While it's commendable to seek out environmentally conscious choices in the food and hospitality sector, cutting corners on temperature control isn't the way to do it. The potential risks—to health, business reputation, and compliance—far outweigh the modest energy savings.

Instead, invest in modern equipment and adopt smart practices that allow you to stay both sustainable and safe. Because in a professional kitchen, cool should never mean careless—especially when customers' health and your hygiene rating are on the line.

Help! My Cat’s a Fussy Eater! What Can I Do?

Following on from our recent blogpost about children who are picky eaters, we look next at another related topic.

If you’re the devoted servant of a cat who turns their nose up at dinner more often than not, you’re not alone. 

Fussy eating is a common trait among our feline friends, and it can be a source of frustration and concern for pet owners. 

Fortunately, there are plenty of practical options and tips available to help coax your picky eater into enjoying mealtimes again.

Why Are Some Cats So Picky?

Cats are creatures of habit and routine, and many are sensitive to changes in food texture, smell, temperature, or flavour. A fussy cat might be reacting to:

Past negative experiences with certain foods

Boredom with the same food every day

Health issues (always worth checking with your vet)

Dislike of particular textures (e.g. chunks in jelly vs. pâté)

Our cat hates the taste of duck. Loves chicken, hates duck.

Tried and Tested Solutions for Fussy Cats

1. Rule Out Health Problems

First and foremost, if your cat suddenly becomes fussy or stops eating, get them checked by your vet. Dental problems, digestive issues, or other illnesses can all affect appetite.

2. Experiment with Different Textures

Some cats prefer mousse-style food, while others like gravy or jelly. Dry kibble might appeal more to some, especially if it’s crunchy and fresh-smelling.

Top tip: Try offering small samples of different food textures to find what your cat enjoys most.

3. Warm It Up

Warming your cat’s wet food slightly (just a few seconds in the microwave) can enhance the aroma and make it more tempting. Just be sure it’s not too hot.

4. Add a Topper

A sprinkle of freeze-dried chicken, tuna flakes, or even a splash of warm low-salt chicken broth can make an ordinary meal far more enticing.

5. Offer Variety (But Not Too Much)

Cats can become bored with the same food every day, so rotating between a few favourite flavours or brands can help. However, too much variety might lead to a cat becoming more fussy, always expecting something new!

6. Stick to a Schedule

Leaving food down all day can lead to grazing and disinterest. Try set mealtimes and remove uneaten food after 20–30 minutes. Your cat will learn to eat when food is offered. Food left out all day during hot weather can spoil, so be aware of that. 

7. Create a Calm Eating Environment

Some cats are sensitive to noise, other pets, or even humans hovering too close during mealtimes. A quiet, stress-free feeding area can encourage more relaxed eating.

8. Try Puzzle Feeders

For dry food lovers, puzzle feeders can make meals more stimulating and rewarding. It mimics hunting behaviour and can encourage interest in food.

When All Else Fails

If your cat is consistently rejecting multiple foods, your vet may suggest:

A prescription appetite stimulant

A prescription diet for cats with food sensitivities or health issues

Blood tests to rule out thyroid issues, kidney problems, or allergies

Living with a fussy feline can be a bit of a challenge, but with patience, observation, and a few clever tricks, you can usually find a feeding routine that works. Every cat is an individual, some may always be a bit particular, but they’re worth the effort (even if you do end up being their personal chef!).

Coping with a Child Who Is a Picky Eater. Tips for Parents

If you're the parent of a picky eater, you're not alone. Many families face the daily challenge of mealtimes filled with sighs, stubborn refusals, or food being pushed around the plate. 

Whether your child turns their nose up at vegetables or refuses to eat anything but beige foods, it can be frustrating, exhausting, and even worrying.

The good news? Picky eating is often a phase, and there are practical, gentle ways to support your child through it without turning meals into battlegrounds.

Understanding Why Kids Are Picky Eaters

Picky eating is a normal part of childhood development. It often peaks between the ages of 2 and 6, when children are learning to assert their independence. 

They might be suspicious of unfamiliar textures, flavours, or colours, and that's okay. From a developmental standpoint, it's a survival instinct rooted in caution.

Other reasons may include:

Sensory sensitivities to textures or smells

Underlying medical or oral motor issues (e.g., reflux, difficulty chewing)

Routine and control – children often crave routine and may use food as one of the few areas they can control

Top Tips for Coping With a Picky Eater

1. Keep Mealtimes Relaxed

Stress and pressure at the table can make things worse. Try to create a calm, positive environment where food is not a battleground. Avoid nagging, bribing, or forcing your child to eat.

2. Serve What They Like — With a Twist

Include at least one safe food at each meal, something you know your child likes. Then add a small amount of a new or less-preferred food alongside it to increase exposure without pressure.

3. Involve Them in Food Choices

Let your child help with meal planning, shopping, and cooking. When children feel involved, they're more likely to be curious and willing to try new things.

4. Make Food Fun

Use cookie cutters to shape sandwiches or fruit, build “food faces” on a plate, or serve dips for veggies. Making food look appealing and playful can ease the pressure and boost interest.

5. Be a Role Model

Children copy adults. If they see you enjoying a variety of healthy foods, they’re more likely to try them too, eventually!

6. Don’t Offer Alternatives

It’s tempting to whip up a quick replacement when dinner is refused. But this can reinforce picky habits. Offer one meal for the family and let your child decide whether to eat it. Trust that they won’t starve, most children eat enough over the course of a week even if one meal is skipped.

7. Stick to a Routine

Offer meals and snacks at regular times. Avoid letting them graze all day on snacks, as constant nibbling can lead to less hunger at proper mealtimes.

8. Keep Portions Child-Sized

Small portions can feel less intimidating. If they want more, they can always ask for it.

When to Seek Help

If your child is dropping weight, showing signs of malnutrition, or is extremely selective (e.g., eats fewer than 10 foods), it may be time to consult a GP or dietitian. There could be sensory processing issues or feeding disorders that need professional support.

Remember: It’s a Journey

Most children grow out of fussy eating with time. The key is patience, consistency, and offering a wide variety of foods without pressure. Celebrate small victories, even licking a new food or having it on the plate is a step forward.

Mealtimes should be about connection, not conflict. With the right approach, you can help your child develop a healthy relationship with food that lasts a lifetime.

How to Host a Moon Landing-Themed Party or BBQ to Celebrate the Anniversary of Apollo 11

Each July, space enthusiasts, science buffs, and history lovers alike celebrate the anniversary of the first Moon landing on 20 July 1969, when Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin made history as the first humans to set foot on the lunar surface. 

Whether you’re a space geek or just love a good excuse to throw a themed bash, here’s how to host a Moon Landing-themed party or BBQ that’s out of this world.

1. Set the Scene with a Space Theme

Transform your garden, patio, or indoor space into a mini version of Mission Control or the Moon’s surface:

Decorations: Use silver, black, and navy blue as your main colours. Hang paper planets, stars, and Moon cut-outs. Glow-in-the-dark stars on walls or fences add a cool night-time effect.

Lighting: String fairy lights or LED “meteor lights” around the garden. Place torches or lanterns in craters (buckets or bowls covered in foil) to mimic lunar terrain.

Dress Code: Invite guests to come as astronauts, aliens, NASA engineers, or wear starry or galactic-themed outfits.

2. Space-Themed Food and Drink

Give classic BBQ and party food a cosmic twist:

Moonburgers: Use round buns and cheese cut into star shapes. Add a “moon dust” spice mix (a smoky seasoning blend) for flavour.

Rocket Dogs: Skewer hot dogs on sticks with peppers or mushrooms to resemble rocket ships.

Meteorite Meatballs: Serve spicy meatballs labelled as "meteorites" or "comet chunks".

Galactic Slaw: Add red cabbage and beetroot for a vibrant, spacey colour.

Astronaut Ice Cream or Space Jelly: Make fun desserts like layered jelly with glittery edible stars or freeze-dried snacks as a nod to real astronaut food.

Drinks: Serve blue punch or lemonade as “Lunar Fuel”, and cocktails like “Cosmic Cosmo” or “Rocket Fuel Rum Punch”.

3. Moon Landing Viewing Station

Set up a screen or projector and host a mini film festival:

Show clips from the original Apollo 11 landing broadcast.

Screen space-themed classics like Apollo 13, Hidden Figures, or Interstellar.

If you're holding an evening event, time it to look at the Moonrise and encourage a bit of stargazing!

4. Fun Space Activities for All Ages

Keep your guests engaged with interactive fun:

Moon Rock Hunt: Hide painted rocks (wrapped in foil or painted grey) around the garden for kids to find.

NASA Trivia Quiz: Test your guests’ space knowledge with a themed pub-style quiz.

DIY Rocket Launchers: Create simple stomp rockets using plastic bottles and paper, absolutely perfect for a bit of light-hearted competition.

Face Painting Booth: Offer space-themed designs like planets, stars, or astronaut helmets.

5. Commemorative Touches

Hand out mini Moon flags or badges as party favours.

Make a photo booth with cardboard cut-outs of an astronaut helmet, a lunar module, or Neil Armstrong’s footprint.

Set up a “Memory of the Moon” wall where guests can write what space exploration means to them.

6. Playlists and Soundtrack Ideas

Music makes the mood. Here are some fun tracks to include in your Moon Landing party playlist:

Space Oddity – David Bowie

Rocket Man – Elton John

Walking on the Moon – The Police

Fly Me to the Moon – Frank Sinatra

Man on the Moon – R.E.M.

Life on Mars? – David Bowie

Telstar - The Tornadoes 

Celebrate a Giant Leap

Whether you’re commemorating the historical achievement of Apollo 11, dreaming of future Moon missions, or just enjoying a star-filled night with friends, a Moon Landing Anniversary BBQ or party is a fun and educational way to mark one of humanity’s greatest milestones.

So fire up the grill, dust off your telescope, and raise a toast to the astronauts who took that giant leap for mankind.

My own personal story is that the headmaster of the senior school I was at had all 250 pupils, plus staff, packed into the school library where we watched the launch on the big screen black and white television that the school owned. 

Several days later, after we had broken up for the summer holidays, I watched the moon landing and moon walks at home with my family in the middle of the night. I remember David Frost comparing the programming.

How to Celebrate National Ice Cream Day in Sweet, Creative Style

Every year, National Ice Cream Day gives us the perfect excuse to indulge in the nation’s favourite frozen treat. 

Falling on the third Sunday of July (21st July in 2025), this delightful day is all about creamy scoops, nostalgic cones, and icy innovation. 

Whether you’re a classic vanilla lover or a fan of bold, experimental flavours, there’s a way for everyone to join in the celebrations.

Here’s how to make National Ice Cream Day absolutely delicious:

1. Host an Ice Cream Social

Invite friends, family, or neighbours over for an afternoon of ice cream fun. Set up a DIY sundae bar with a variety of ice cream flavours and toppings like:

Fresh fruit

Crushed biscuits

Nuts and sprinkles

Warm sauces (chocolate, caramel, strawberry)

Whipped cream and wafers

Add games like ice cream trivia or a blind taste test to keep things fun and interactive.

2. Try a New or Local Brand

Support small, local or independent ice cream makers. Look out for regional favourites at your local farm shop or food market. You could even discover plant-based gelatos, goat milk ice cream, or experimental flavours like rose and pistachio or elderflower and honey.

3. Make Your Own Ice Cream

Homemade ice cream is easier than you might think – even without an ice cream maker. Try a simple no-churn recipe using just double cream, condensed milk, and your favourite mix-ins like:

Berries and jam

Crushed chocolate bars

Biscuits and peanut butter

Get creative and invent your own signature flavour!

4. Share a Scoop on Social Media

Celebrate the day with a picture of your favourite cone or sundae on Instagram, TikTok or Threads. Use hashtags like #NationalIceCreamDay, #IceCreamLovers, or even make a fun reel rating your top flavours.

5. Support an Ice Cream-Related Cause

Did you know some charities and community groups use ice cream socials for fundraising? Consider holding one to raise money for a local cause or donate to organisations supporting food banks, summer lunch programmes, or children’s charities.

6. Explore Ice Cream History

Take a moment to appreciate the cultural significance and history of ice cream. From its early roots in ancient Persia and China to Italian gelato and the birth of the ice cream van in the UK, it’s more than just a dessert – it’s a global tradition.

7. Celebrate with Ice Cream-Inspired Treats

Not in the mood for a scoop? Try ice cream-flavoured drinks like milkshakes or iced coffee floats. Or go for themed desserts like ice cream cupcakes, sandwiches, or even an ice cream cake.

Final Sprinkle

Whether you're scooping up a classic 99 Flake or crafting an over-the-top sundae, National Ice Cream Day is your golden ticket to a sweet summer celebration. So go ahead, indulge, experiment, share, and enjoy every cold, creamy bite.