When Food Was Simple: Can We Convince Big Brands to Return to Their Roots?

Why did I write this blogpost? Years ago there was a delicious propriety make of fruit cake which was delicious. It didn't taste home baked but it was pretty close. 

The last time I tried this cake it was oily and had a rather unpleasant and somewhat fake taste, for want of a better word. Which set me to thinking about what had changed over the past 30 years.

There was a time, not too long ago, when even the biggest food companies created their products with the same simple ingredients we used at home. 

Bread was made with flour, water, salt, and yeast. Yoghurt was milk and cultures. Soup was vegetables, stock, and herbs. You could pick up a tin or a frozen meal and recognise every single ingredient on the label.

Fast forward to today, and many of these same products have been reformulated with ultra-processed food (UPF) ingredients: emulsifiers, thickeners, preservatives, artificial flavourings, and industrial sweeteners. 

These additives are often there to extend shelf life, reduce manufacturing costs, or enhance texture and appearance. But what has been lost is flavour, nutrition, and trust.

What Changed?

Starting in the late 20th century, a quiet revolution began in food manufacturing. Driven by profit margins, globalisation, and advances in food technology, large food companies began adopting UPF-heavy recipes. The chef in his or her research kitchen was replaced with a food scientist in a laboratory. 

Rather than making a biscuit with butter and sugar, they could use palm oil and high-fructose corn syrup. 

Instead of cooking a proper tomato sauce, they could simulate the flavour with tomato powder, acidity regulators and “natural flavours” or "nature identical flavours."

These shifts didn’t happen overnight, and they weren’t always malicious, but the result has been a slow erosion of real food from our shelves. 

The side effect? A rise in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other health issues, many of which are now linked to high UPF diets.

The Case for Simpler Recipes

There is now a growing public awareness about ultra-processed foods. Consumers are reading labels, watching documentaries, and asking questions. 

Movements like real food eating, the clean label initiative, and farm-to-fork campaigns have reignited demand for transparency and simplicity.

Many of us remember when food tasted better, not because of nostalgia, but because the ingredients were better.

So how do we encourage large companies to return to their simpler roots?

1. Use Your Wallet as a Vote

One of the most powerful tools consumers have is where they spend their money. When shoppers consistently choose brands that prioritise real ingredients and minimal processing, big food manufacturers take notice. 

Many smaller brands have built successful businesses on this principle – and their rapid growth puts pressure on larger competitors to follow suit.

2. Demand Transparency

Consumers can email, message, or tag brands on social media asking why they use certain additives or asking if they’ll ever consider returning to their older, simpler recipes. A polite but firm question can go a long way. Brands listen when they see a trend forming.

3. Celebrate Brands Doing It Right

There are big food companies beginning to respond to the UPF backlash. Some have released “legacy” products with heritage recipes. 

Others have reformulated popular lines to remove artificial ingredients and simplify labels. When these moves are made, it’s worth celebrating them – publicly and loudly.

4. Push for Clearer Labelling

Governments and regulatory bodies have the power to enforce clearer labelling and restrict misleading claims. Campaigns calling for mandatory UPF labelling, or stricter definitions of terms like “natural” and “wholegrain”, could shift the market. Public pressure, petitions, and writing to your MP can support these policy changes.

5. Create a Movement

Much like the organic food boom or the plastic-free movement, the fight against UPFs can grow with grassroots energy. Food bloggers, influencers, dietitians, parents, and chefs can all amplify the message: we want real food back. Creating shareable content, organising food swaps, or reviewing “old recipe” products helps keep momentum going.

Final Thoughts

Food doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious or shelf-stable. The old recipes worked. They nourished generations and built the reputations of some of the world’s biggest brands.

It’s time for food giants to look back, not just forward. To revisit the recipes that made them beloved in the first place. And to realise that in today’s health-conscious, label-savvy world. Simple might just be the smartest choice they could make.

Perhaps they need to learn the old business adage of KIS. Keep It Simple, Stupid!

That's Food and Drink would be very pleased if you could forward this post to as many people as you can.

Celebrate International Cat Day with a Purr-fect Party for You and Your Feline Friends

International Cat Day, held every year on 8 August, is the purr-fect excuse to spoil your feline companion rotten, and throw a party while you’re at it! 

Whether your cat is the life of the party or prefers a quiet celebration with treats and cuddles, it’s a lovely opportunity to show your appreciation for the whiskered royalty in your life. 

And why should humans miss out on the fun? Here's how to throw a cat-themed bash with treats for both species.

Party Prep: Setting the Scene

Start by transforming your space into a feline-friendly fiesta. Think paw-print bunting, cat-shaped balloons, scratching posts wrapped in streamers, and a comfy chill-out zone for cats who want to observe from a distance. You could even set up an agility course or puzzle games if your cat loves a bit of enrichment.

Make sure the space is calm and safe—avoid loud noises, too many guests, or anything that might stress your furry friends.

Party Eats for the Cats

Your cats deserve gourmet nibbles on their special day. Here are some kitty-friendly snack ideas:

Salmon & Tuna Cat Cakes

Mix tinned tuna and salmon with a little mashed sweet potato and form into small cake shapes.

Chill in the fridge and serve with a garnish of catnip for flair.

Chicken & Catnip Bites

Use boiled shredded chicken mixed with a spoonful of plain yoghurt and a sprinkle of dried catnip.

Roll into small balls and refrigerate.

Frozen Lick Lollies

Pour tuna water or unsalted chicken broth into ice cube moulds.

Add tiny fishy or meaty bits and freeze. Great for warm August afternoons!

Treat Bar

Set up a little “treat bar” with different cat treats, like:

Freeze-dried chicken

Cat milk

Dental sticks

Slices of cooked turkey or ham (no salt or seasoning)

Don’t forget plenty of fresh water and supervision during the festivities!

Party Snacks for the Humans

Of course, the humans need something to nibble while their cats reign supreme. Here are some cat-themed party treats:

“Paw-some” Cupcakes

Vanilla or chocolate cupcakes topped with buttercream. (But make sure kitty doesn't get any of the chocolate, obviously.)

Decorate with paw-print designs made from fondant or edible cat toppers.

Cat-icorn Popcorn Mix

Sweet or salted popcorn mixed with coloured treats.

Serve in paw-print paper cones for a festive look.

Cheese and “Meow-cuterie” Board

A grazing board for guests featuring:

Cheddar, brie, and soft cheeses

Grapes, apple slices, and crackers (Make sure your kitty doesn't nibble on a grape.)

Small cat-shaped cheese cutters can add a fun twist

Mocktails and “Meow-tinis”

Create fun drinks like a cucumber and mint mocktail or a pink lemonade spritz.

Add paper straws with little cat flags or toppers.

Activities & Feline Fun

Photo Booth: Set up a backdrop with cat ears, props, and signs like “Queen of the House” or “I Work for My Cat.”

Gift Exchange: Invite guests to bring a small toy or treat, then do a lucky dip.

Adoption Appeal: If you’re passionate about animal welfare, use the event to raise awareness or funds for your local cat shelter.

Parting Gifts

Send your guests home with little party bags—treats for both them and their cats:

A sachet of cat treats

A mini toy mouse or feather wand

A tea bag or hot chocolate sachet for the human

A cute thank-you note “from” your cat

International Cat Day is more than just an excuse to party—it’s about recognising the joy, companionship, and comfort that cats bring to our lives. So whether you go all out with balloons and cat cakes or keep it simple with a cuddle and a treat, take a moment to celebrate your furry friend in a way that suits you both.

Happy International Cat Day to all the fabulous felines and the humans who love them!

Celebrate National Son and Daughter Day with a Family Feast to Remember

Let’s bring this sweet tradition across the pond

National Son and Daughter Day has been a beloved American tradition since the 1930s. It's a day to pause, reflect, and show appreciation for the children in our lives. 

Whether they’re little ones still learning to tie their laces or grown-up kids building lives of their own, this day is all about celebrating the bond between parents and children.

While not widely known in the UK just yet, this warm-hearted day deserves a global audience. 

What better way to start spreading the love than with a family celebration packed with delicious, kid-friendly party food?

Here’s how to throw a fuss-free, flavour-filled National Son and Daughter Day party, where the menu is as joyful as the memories you’ll make.

Sweet and Savoury Finger Foods to Share

1. DIY Mini Pizzas

Let your kids unleash their inner chefs! Lay out mini pizza bases (or use pitta bread) with bowls of tomato sauce, grated cheese, and toppings like pepperoni, olives, sweetcorn, and peppers. Fun, interactive, and tasty.

2. Rainbow Fruit Skewers

Thread chunks of strawberries, melon, pineapple, kiwi, and grapes onto wooden skewers for a healthy and vibrant snack. Drizzle with a little honey or melted chocolate for a treat.

3. Cheesy Twists

Using ready-rolled puff pastry, twist strips sprinkled with grated cheese, bake until golden, and watch them vanish from the plate. Add a touch of paprika or pesto for a grown-up kick.

4. Sandwich Sushi

Flatten slices of bread, spread with cream cheese or hummus, layer with ham or cucumber, roll tightly, and slice into little ‘sushi’ rounds. Kids love the novelty, and they’re perfect for small hands.

Treats That Double as Activities

Decorate-Your-Own Cupcakes

Pre-bake plain cupcakes and set out icing, sprinkles, chocolate chips, and fruit bits. Whether the end result is Pinterest-worthy or hilariously messy, it’s all part of the fun.

Mocktail Mixing Station

Set up a colourful drinks corner with juices, fruit slices, fizzy water, and umbrellas. Let the kids mix and name their own mocktails, parents and older sons and daughters can get involved too (with or without gin, depending on the hour!).

Little Touches That Make a Big Difference

Create a 'Memory Wall' with printed photos of favourite family moments

Handwrite mini 'thank you' notes to each child with a reason why they’re cherished

Add themed decorations in your child’s favourite colours or hobbies—football bunting, unicorn balloons, or even a Lego centrepiece!

Why It Matters

In a busy world, it’s easy to forget to simply celebrate the people we love most. National Son and Daughter Day gives families a moment to do just that. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, foster carer or mentor, this is a chance to connect, laugh, and make beautiful memories over a plate of sausage rolls and fruit punch.

Let’s start a new tradition here in the UK.

How to Celebrate Lazy Day with the Best Snacks and Drinks for Doing Absolutely Nothing

Lazy Day (celebrated annually on 10th August) is the perfect excuse to embrace the art of doing absolutely nothing, without guilt, stress, or a to-do list in sight. 

It’s a chance to slow down, unwind, and fully lean into indulgence. And what better way to celebrate than by arming yourself with an array of deliciously lazy snacks and drinks to fuel your relaxation?

Here’s how to celebrate Lazy Day like a pro — all snacks, no effort.

Set the Scene for Supreme Laziness

Start by creating the ultimate chill zone. Whether that means staying in bed all day, camping out on the sofa with your favourite series, or lounging in the garden with a good book and a blanket, make comfort your top priority. Soft pyjamas, fluffy socks, and absolutely no plans allowed.

Lazy Snacks That Practically Make Themselves

No cooking required. Just grab, assemble, and devour. Think maximum taste, minimum effort.

1. Cheese & Crackers Board

Just unwrap and arrange. Include a mix of creamy brie, cheddar cubes, soft goat’s cheese, and maybe a little fig chutney. Add some grapes and a handful of nuts for bonus lazy luxe.

2. Crisps & Dips

Go classic with salted crisps and hummus, or level up with tortilla chips and shop-bought guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. No chopping, no faff.

3. Ready-Made Mini Pastries

From sausage rolls to mini quiches, most supermarkets offer pre-cooked delights you can eat cold or warm slightly in the microwave (if you’re feeling wild).

4. Fruit & Chocolate Platter

Throw together strawberries, banana slices, and apple wedges with a bowl of chocolate spread or peanut butter for dipping. Fancy without the hassle.

5. Ice Cream & Toppings Bar

Pop a giant tub of ice cream in a bowl and let everyone add sprinkles, crushed biscuits, or fudge sauce. Or go solo and eat straight from the tub — Lazy Day rules, after all.

Lazy Drinks to Sip the Day Away

Keep hydration and indulgence in perfect balance with easy-to-pour drinks that fit the mood.

1. Iced Teas and Lemonades

Bottled or homemade the night before. Pour over ice and garnish with a slice of lemon (optional — this is Lazy Day, after all).

2. Fizzy Treats

Sparkling elderflower, a cold can of your favourite soft drink, or even a fizzy cocktail like a spritz (if you’re feeling fancy).

3. Cold Brew or Iced Coffee

Make it the day before or pick up ready-made bottles from the shop. Add a splash of milk and a lazy swirl.

4. Mocktails or Cocktails

Think two-ingredient wonders: gin and tonic, rum and coke, or cranberry juice with soda water and lime for a refreshing alcohol-free option.

5. Hot Chocolate in a Mug Big Enough to Swim In

Perfect for rainy Lazy Days. Add whipped cream and marshmallows if you must... or just microwave a pre-mixed sachet and call it a win.

Lazy Bonus Activities (If You Must)

If you're itching to do something (gently), here are some low-effort pleasures:

Watch a comfort film or binge-watch that series you never finished

Flick through a magazine or audiobook

Doodle, knit, or do a jigsaw puzzle

Online window shopping from your sofa throne

Scroll guilt-free — Lazy Day is your social media scroll pass!

Final WordLazy Day is about giving yourself permission to stop — truly stop — and just be. Let the day roll gently by, snack in hand, drink at your side, responsibilities on pause. Whether you're flying solo or indulging with others, do it your way — the lazy way.

Celebrate International Coworking Day with Feasts, Fun & Festive Drinks

International Coworking Day (celebrated every year on 9th August) is more than just a nod to shared office spaces, it's a celebration of community, creativity, and collaboration. 

Whether you're based in a buzzing coworking hub, running your own co-op space, or working from home alongside virtual colleagues, this is the perfect opportunity to come together, say cheers, and enjoy a little midweek joy.

Why not mark the occasion with mini impromptu feasts, planned parties, and DIY cocktails and mocktails? Here’s how to make the day memorable for everyone in your shared space—whether you're ten desks strong or a remote crew on Zoom.

1. Mini Impromptu Feasts: Bring What You’ve Got

Start the day with a casual call-out: “Bring a bite to share!” You’d be surprised how quickly a snack table can fill up.

Easy Ideas:

A pot of homemade hummus and veggie sticks

Cheese and crackers from a local deli

That leftover cake from someone’s birthday yesterday (we see you, office fridge!)

A tray of samosas or mini sausage rolls from the corner shop

No pressure, no formality—just a table of little joys and good conversation.

2. Planned Parties: Coworking with a Twist

If your space leans more structured, get a small team to organise a themed bash. A little effort goes a long way in creating workplace camaraderie.

Themes to try:

Around the World: Everyone brings a dish or drink from their culture or favourite cuisine.

Dress as Your Job: An ironic fancy dress moment, think designers in berets, marketers in capes.

Taco Thursday (even if it’s Friday): Order in or make a taco bar with toppings for all dietary preferences.

Don’t forget music! A communal playlist can spark conversations between even the shyest coworkers.

3. Cocktails and Mocktails: After-Hours Cheers

Toast to the power of coworking with a drinks station featuring both boozy and alcohol-free options. A mini "cocktail hour" from 4 pm can be the highlight of the day.

Easy favourites:

Cocktails:

Classic Mojito

Aperol Spritz

Espresso Martini (for a late afternoon pick-me-up)

Mocktails:

Cucumber Mint Fizz (sparkling water, lime, mint, cucumber)

Tropical Sunrise (pineapple juice, orange juice, grenadine)

Virgin Bloody Mary (tomato juice, spices, celery stick)

Encourage people to swap recipes, or even hold a quick “make your own mocktail” contest with a prize for the most creative combo.

Why It Matters

Coworking isn't just about shared printers and good Wi-Fi. It’s about building networks, friendships, and fresh ideas across disciplines. Celebrating this growing movement with a feast or drink in hand is a joyful reminder that community can be found, and built, wherever we work.

So whether you’re coworking from a slick city hub or your kitchen table with remote pals, use 9th August to raise a glass, share a snack, and toast to a new way of working that’s collaborative, colourful, and deeply human.

Cheers to International Coworking Day!

May your snacks be plentiful and your Wi-Fi strong.

Honouring International Day of the World's Indigenous People with Food and Drink

A Celebration of Cultural Roots. Because We Are All Indigenous to Somewhere

Every year on 9 August, the world pauses to mark International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, a time to recognise and honour the resilience, wisdom, and cultural heritage of Indigenous communities across the globe. 

It’s a day for reflection, education, and, importantly, appreciation. 

And what better way to appreciate a culture than through its food and drink?

This year, consider marking the day with a respectful culinary journey that acknowledges the ancestral flavours and time-honoured traditions of Indigenous people — not just globally, but locally too. After all, we are all indigenous to somewhere, and embracing those roots can be both an act of celebration and solidarity.

Understanding the Day

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples was first proclaimed by the UN in 1994. It raises awareness of the unique cultures and challenges faced by Indigenous communities, and amplifies their voices in conversations around human rights, environmental protection, and cultural preservation.

But it isn’t only about policy or activism — it’s about recognising the deep contributions Indigenous people make to global heritage, including culinary traditions that have endured for centuries.

Celebrating with Respectful Food and Drink

Rather than appropriating dishes, the goal is to appreciate, learn, and support. Whether through cooking Indigenous recipes, supporting Indigenous-owned producers, or simply taking time to explore the ingredients and stories behind traditional meals, you can join this global celebration with intention and care.

Global Indigenous Dishes to Explore:

North America: Try Three Sisters Stew, a Native American dish built around corn, beans, and squash — ingredients known as the "three sisters" that sustain both land and community.

Australia: Explore kangaroo tail stew or dishes featuring native bush foods like wattleseed, lemon myrtle, and finger lime, often used in Aboriginal cuisine.

South America: Indigenous Quechua and Aymara cuisines feature quinoa, llama meat, and potatoes. Try a simple quinoa soup infused with herbs and Andean chillies.

Africa: From the Berbers of North Africa to the San people of Southern Africa, traditional stews, flatbreads, and fermented drinks such as injera or mahewu offer deep cultural connections.

Asia: Explore millet-based dishes and wild greens used by Indigenous groups in northeast India or the native peoples of Siberia who traditionally cook with game and fish.

New Zealand (Aotearoa): Prepare a version of hangi, a Māori cooking method involving earth ovens — or try smoky, slow-roasted meats with kumara (sweet potato).

Indigenous Drinks to Sample:

Chicha morada: A traditional Peruvian drink made from purple corn, cloves, and pineapple.

Yerba maté: A social drink rooted in Guaraní and other Indigenous South American cultures.

Juniper tea or cedar tea: Used in traditional healing among various North American Indigenous peoples.

Mahewu: A fermented maize drink popular among Bantu-speaking communities.

Kava: A ceremonial drink from the Pacific Islands known for its calming effects.

Support Indigenous Producers

You can also mark the day by seeking out Indigenous-owned businesses, food producers, artists, and chefs. Purchase wild rice from Ojibwe growers, bush spices from Aboriginal collectives, or seed-saving kits from Indigenous gardening projects. These choices help support sustainability, food sovereignty, and cultural continuity.

Celebrate Your Own Indigenous Roots

You don’t have to look far to join in. Consider exploring the foods of your own heritage — perhaps your ancestors cultivated rye on the Scottish coast, fished the Irish lochs, or gathered mushrooms in Eastern Europe. Research traditional dishes from your ancestral homeland and cook something that reconnects you with the foodways of your past.

A Mindful Celebration

Marking International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples through food is not about trendiness or exoticism — it’s about respect, acknowledgement, and reconnection. Food tells the story of place, people, and perseverance. Let’s listen.

So gather around the table, share a story or two, honour the land that feeds us — and raise a glass (or a gourd, or a coconut shell) to the Indigenous peoples of the world.

We are all indigenous to somewhere. Let’s never forget it.

Missed Watermelon Day? Here’s Why You Should Celebrate the Whole of August Instead

August 3rd might have quietly slipped by you, and with it, National Watermelon Day. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. 

Many of us were too caught up in the busy summer bustle to notice the calendar nod to this juicy summertime staple.

But here’s the thing: watermelon deserves far more than just a single day of recognition. In fact, we’re calling it! August should be Watermelon Month.

Why Watermelon Deserves a Month of Celebration

1. It’s peak season!

Watermelon is at its absolute best in August. Sweet, refreshing, and perfectly hydrating, it’s everything we crave during warm days and sultry evenings.

2. It’s hydrating and healthy.

With around 92% water content, watermelon is a delicious way to stay cool and hydrated. It's also a source of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and the amino acid citrulline, which supports heart health and muscle recovery.

3. It’s versatile.

Think watermelon is just for slicing and snacking? Think again. From feta and mint salads to watermelon granitas, cocktails, and even grilled wedges, this fruit can surprise you with its adaptability in both sweet and savoury dishes.

4. It brings people together.

Picnics, BBQs, pool parties, and garden gatherings—there’s something inherently joyful about sharing a big slice of watermelon. It’s nostalgic, fun, and a little bit messy in the best possible way.

How to Celebrate Watermelon All August Long

Create a watermelon recipe challenge.

Try a new watermelon-based recipe each week. Get creative: watermelon gazpacho, salsa, skewers with halloumi, smoothies, sorbet…

Host a ‘Missed Watermelon Day’ picnic.

Invite friends or neighbours for a retro-style picnic with watermelon centrepieces, games, and themed snacks. Think seed-spitting contests, watermelon carving, or even a pink and green dress code!

Sip it.

Infuse your water with watermelon and mint, blend up a frosty watermelon daiquiri, or make a non-alcoholic agua fresca. Hydration has never tasted this good.

Support local growers.

If you’re in the UK, hunt down British-grown watermelons at farm shops or greengrocers. While they’re less common than imported varieties, local options help cut food miles and support regional agriculture.

Didn’t Mark the Third? Make It a Month Instead

Missing a single calendar day isn’t the end of the world. But turning it into a month-long celebration? That’s a deliciously good idea.

So go on! Slice it, dice it, blend it, and share it. Celebrate the simple joy of watermelon all August long. It’s never too late to honour summer’s juiciest icon.

Raise a Glass to International Beer Day: Cheers to a Global Tradition!

On the first Friday of every August, or August 5th for some traditionalists, beer lovers across the world unite to celebrate one of the oldest and most beloved beverages in human history, International Beer Day. 

What began in 2007 as a small celebration in a California bar has since grown into a global festivity, with people from over 200 cities in nearly 80 countries clinking glasses in the name of beer.

A Brief History of Beer

Beer is one of the earliest recorded recipes in the world. From ancient Mesopotamian brews to medieval monastic ales, the process of brewing and enjoying beer has evolved over thousands of years. Today, the variety is staggering—from bitter IPAs and creamy stouts to fruity saisons and refreshing lagers.

The Purpose of International Beer Day

International Beer Day isn't just about drinking (although that's certainly part of it). The celebration has three main aims:

To gather with friends and enjoy the taste of beer.

To celebrate those responsible for brewing and serving beer.

To unite the world under the banner of beer by celebrating the beers of all nations together on a single day.

How to Celebrate International Beer Day

1. Visit a Local Brewery

Support your local economy and discover unique brews by visiting nearby craft breweries. Many offer tours and tasting flights, so you can experience the brewing process and sample a range of flavours.

2. Try a New Style or Foreign Beer

Expand your palate by choosing something outside your comfort zone. Whether it's a Belgian Trappist ale, a Japanese rice lager, or a Mexican Vienna-style beer, use the day to explore the world's brewing diversity.

3. Host a Beer Tasting

Gather a few friends and turn your home into a mini beer festival. Pick up an assortment of local and international beers, create some tasting notes, and pair them with cheeses, meats, or pub-style snacks.

4. Raise a Toast to the Brewers and Bartenders

Don’t forget the people behind the pints. Whether it’s your favourite bartender at the local or a hardworking craft brewer, a quick thanks (and maybe a tip) goes a long way.

Beer and British Culture

In the UK, beer is more than just a drink—it’s a social glue. From the snug corners of ancient country pubs to bustling urban taprooms, beer has long played a central role in our cultural and community life. British real ales, IPAs, bitters, and porters continue to influence brewers worldwide.

International Beer Day is a great excuse to rediscover classics like:

London Pride

Timothy Taylor’s Landlord

St Austell Tribute

Thornbridge Jaipur

Beavertown Gamma Ray

Or delve into the newer craft scene with beers from Cloudwater, Verdant, or Northern Monk.

Drink Responsibly and Celebrate Mindfully

As always, moderation is key. International Beer Day is a celebration of culture, craftsmanship, and community—not overindulgence.

So, this August, whether you're enjoying a cold pint in your local, sipping a rare find in a craft bar, or simply relaxing with a few bottles at home, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and global unity that beer represents.

Cheers to International Beer Day!

Celebrating Lammas Day and Lammas Week: A Feast of First Fruits and Community Traditions

As the golden fields of grain begin to bow under the weight of ripened heads, communities across Britain once came together to mark one of the oldest harvest festivals in the calendar, Lammas Day. 

But what is Lammas, and how can we bring this beautiful seasonal celebration into our modern lives today?

What is Lammas Day?

Lammas Day, celebrated on 1st August, marks the "loaf mass" — a traditional festival of the first wheat harvest of the year. The word Lammas comes from the Old English hlāfmæsse, literally meaning "loaf mass", referring to the practice of baking a loaf from the first flour of the season and offering it in thanks.

Though rooted in Christian customs, Lammas has pagan origins closely tied to the Celtic festival of Lughnasadh, honouring the Irish god Lugh, a deity of light, skill, and the harvest. Both traditions mark the start of the vital harvest season — a time of gratitude, gathering, and preparation.

Lammas Week: Extending the Celebration

While Lammas Day is officially the 1st of August, Lammas Week (the first week of August) is often observed with a series of community activities. It was once common for village fairs, games, and feasting to take place during this time, honouring the abundance of the earth and the hard work of farmers and bakers alike.

Traditional Lammas Activities

1. Baking Bread from Scratch

The central tradition of Lammas is baking a homemade loaf. Traditionally, this would be made from the season's first harvested grain and taken to church to be blessed. You can revive this lovely ritual by baking your own Lammas loaf — perhaps shaping it with a sheaf or corn motif.

2. Visiting Local Farmers’ Markets

Lammas is all about local abundance. Spend time at a nearby farmers' market or pick-your-own farm. Buy seasonal fruit and veg such as blackberries, courgettes, tomatoes, and early apples.

3. Hosting a Harvest Meal

Invite friends or neighbours over for a seasonal feast. Include fresh breads, hearty grain salads, roasted root vegetables, and berry-based desserts.

4. Making Corn Dollies

An old English tradition, corn dollies were woven from the last sheaf of wheat to house the spirit of the harvest and ensure good luck for the year to come. Try your hand at weaving simple shapes, or create a decorative Lammas centrepiece for your table.

5. Nature Walks and Gratitude Rituals

Lammas is a time to be mindful of nature’s cycle. Go for a walk in the countryside, collect wildflowers or seeds, and reflect on what you’re grateful for — not just in food, but in life.

Modern Lammas: Ideas for Today

Start a Gratitude Journal — reflect on the 'harvests' in your own life: achievements, relationships, or personal growth.

Create a Lammas altar — with seasonal produce, grains, candles in amber and gold tones, and symbols of the sun or wheat.

Volunteer at a local food bank — honour the spirit of community and sharing that defines Lammas.

Try a foraged food recipe — such as nettle soup, elderberry syrup, or blackberry crumble.

Share a post on social media about Lammas traditions — reviving awareness of seasonal festivals helps preserve our cultural heritage.

Bringing Back a Forgotten Festival

In our fast-paced, digital world, taking time to observe the seasons and celebrate nature’s bounty can be grounding and fulfilling. Lammas reminds us of our connection to the land, the value of community, and the importance of sharing what we have.

Whether you bake a simple loaf of bread or spend the week engaging in gratitude and giving, celebrating Lammas can bring a sense of rootedness and joy to early August.

Have you ever celebrated Lammas or another harvest festival? Share your experiences and traditions in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us in your Lammas loaf pics! #LammasWeek #LoafMass #HarvestCelebration

Ty Nant Acquires Strathmore Water from AG Barr

Ty Nant, the fast-growing premium bottled water company, is proud to announce its acquisition of Strathmore Water from AG Barr plc. 

The deal marks a significant moment for two of Britain’s most respected water brands and reinforces Ty Nant’s commitment to celebrating regional heritage, quality, and long-term investment in British manufacturing.

With a rich Scottish provenance and decades of brand equity, Strathmore has become a trusted name across the UK in hospitality, foodservice, sports and leisure. The acquisition ensures that Strathmore will continue to be bottled at source in Forfar, Scotland, and that every job at the site has been safeguarded as part of the transaction.

“This is a brand with a deep legacy and a loyal following, and we are honoured to be entrusted with its next chapter,” Raminder Sidhu, Chairman and Director at Ty Nant told That's Food and Drink.

“At the heart of Strathmore’s success is the incredible team in Forfar. Their professionalism, passion and care are a true testament to the strength of the brand and the business. We’re proud to welcome them into the Ty Nant family and excited to invest further in their future.”

Ty Nant extends its sincere thanks to AG Barr for their outstanding stewardship of Strathmore over the past two decades. “AG Barr have been exemplary custodians of the brand and the Forfar operation,” added Sidhu. “We are grateful for their partnership and support during this transition, and for the strong platform they’ve built, both in market and on the ground.”

The acquisition of Strathmore comes at a pivotal time for Ty Nant, which has seen exceptional growth in the past 24 months and now supplies some of the world’s leading hotels, retailers, and cultural institutions. The addition of Strathmore enhances Ty Nant’s operational scale and geographic reach, while maintaining the distinct identities of both brands.

Ty Nant will continue to operate Strathmore as a proudly Scottish brand, investing in sustainability, customer partnerships, and the Forfar site as a long-term strategic asset.

www.tynant.com