Why Science Often Gets Food Stories Wrong (And What We Should Do About It)

Food is something we all care about, what we eat, what we avoid, what might help us live longer, or what might make us ill. 

So when headlines scream, "Red meat causes cancer!" or "Wine is good for your heart!" it’s no wonder people sit up and pay attention. But how reliable are these scientific-sounding food stories?

The truth? Science often gets food stories wrong, or, more accurately, the way science is communicated to the public often distorts the reality of what was actually studied. 

Let's take a closer look at why this keeps happening, and how we can all become savvier eaters and readers.

1. Nutrition science is incredibly complex

Unlike something like physics, where experiments can be repeated in tightly controlled lab environments, nutrition research often deals with messy, real-life conditions. People eat a huge variety of foods, in different combinations, in different quantities, with varying genetics, lifestyles, and health conditions.

Trying to isolate the effect of one nutrient—like saturated fat or fibre, often relies on observational studies, which can only show associations, not causation. So, if a study shows that people who eat more processed meat have a higher risk of heart disease, it might not be the meat, it might be that they also smoke more, exercise less, or have other dietary factors at play.

2. The media loves a bold headline

Studies are often misrepresented in the media because nuance doesn’t sell. A story like “Small-scale study suggests possible link between compound X and reduced risk of disease Y, but more research is needed” won’t make the front page. But “CHEESE CURES CANCER” just might.

The result? We’re whiplashed by contradictory stories: one week eggs are bad for you, the next week they're a superfood. It creates public confusion and fuels distrust in science, when in fact, it’s often the journalism that’s the problem—not the science itself.

3. Industry funding and biases can play a role

Sometimes the science is skewed from the beginning. A company funding research into its own product can influence study design, publication, and interpretation of results. That doesn’t mean all industry-funded research is invalid, but it does require a critical eye.

Think of studies funded by soda companies that try to downplay the link between sugar and obesity, or food industry-backed research focusing on exercise rather than diet in tackling weight gain. These subtle shifts in focus can have a massive impact on public perception.

4. Science changes—because that’s how science works

We often forget that science is not a fixed truth—it’s a method. When new studies come out that contradict older ones, that doesn’t mean the whole field is unreliable. It means we’re learning more and refining our understanding. But to the public, it can feel like scientists are constantly changing their minds.

This is especially difficult in food and health reporting, where people understandably want clear, simple answers. Unfortunately, science rarely offers certainty, it offers probability, patterns, and evolving insight.

5. What can we do about it?

Don’t rely solely on headlines. Dig deeper or wait for reviews from trusted health sources like the NHS, the British Dietetic Association, or reputable health journalists.

Beware of “miracle” foods or “evil” ingredients. If something sounds too good or too bad to be true, it probably is.

Understand study types. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are stronger than observational studies, but still not perfect. Look for meta-analyses that review many studies on a topic.

Watch out for conflicts of interest. Always ask: who funded the study?

Eat based on overall patterns, not one ingredient. A varied, mostly whole-food, plant-forward diet still holds strong across decades of research.

The relationship between food and health is deeply personal, cultural, and emotional—but it’s also scientific. The problem isn’t with science itself, but how we translate it into public knowledge. If we can learn to question the headlines, understand the limits of research, and think in terms of long-term patterns rather than quick fixes, we’ll all be better off.

So next time you see that catchy article claiming that chocolate, coffee, kale, or ketchup will either kill you or save you, take it with a (moderate) pinch of salt.

Plan Your Next Adventure with the Wetherspoon App – Pints, Pubs and Affordable Stays

If you're after a fun, affordable way to explore the UK, the answer might be closer than you think – right in your pocket. 

The Wetherspoon app isn’t just for ordering pints and cheap breakfasts from your seat – it’s also a surprisingly clever tool for planning travel, discovering new places, and even booking a comfy stay at a Wetherlodge hotel.

Whether you're a solo traveller, a couple looking for a last-minute weekend away, a small family, or a group of mates planning a pub crawl with purpose, the Wetherspoon app makes it easy.

Explore the UK, One Pub at a Time

There are over 800 Wetherspoon pubs across the UK, many housed in stunning buildings rich in local history – from old cinemas and courthouses to libraries and post offices. Using the app’s built-in pub finder, you can instantly see where your nearest ‘Spoons is, or plot a route that takes in a few. Some former cinemas, theatres and opera houses in the chain still stage movie nights, etc.

Check out their regular beer and cider festivals, too. 

Want to do a Wetherspoon road trip? Try creating your own route where each stop includes a visit to a different Wetherspoon pub. Pick a theme – perhaps coastal towns, cathedral cities, or hidden gems – and let the app guide you.

Stay the Night at Wetherlodge Hotels

Many Wetherspoon pubs also offer accommodation through their Wetherlodge hotels – clean, comfortable, and surprisingly affordable places to stay. These are often centrally located, making them perfect for city breaks or overnight stops during longer trips.

You can check availability and pricing through the Wetherspoon website or phone the hotel directly – the app will tell you if the pub has a Wetherlodge attached. For example:

The King's Head Hotel, Monmouth

The Unicorn Hotel, Ripon

The Angel Hotel, Whitby

The Bottle Kiln, Harwich

The Shrewsbury Hotel, Shrewsbury

Keavan’s Port Hotel, Dublin

The Old Borough, Swords, Ireland

Pair your stay with a meal and a drink without ever leaving the building – perfect after a long day of exploring.

Eat and Drink Without Queues or Fuss

One of the best features of the Wetherspoon app is the ability to order food and drink from your table. No queueing at the bar, no pressure to remember your order. It’s ideal if you’re in a new town and just want to relax and take things slow.

The app even remembers your favourites – handy if you’ve got a go-to meal or drink. And if you’re travelling with friends, everyone can use the app to order separately but eat together. And they offer free WiFi, too.

How to Use the Wetherspoon App to Plan Your Adventure

1. Download the App

Free on both iOS and Android.

2. Use the Pub Finder

Search by town or postcode and add stops along your route.

3. Check for Hotels

Look for pubs that offer Wetherlodge rooms if you're planning an overnight stay.

4. Browse Menus in Advance

See what each location offers. Menus can vary slightly depending on the region.

5. Make a Map or Itinerary

Plot out your travel plan – even better if you’re using public transport and want to make sure there’s a pub nearby!

Make It Your Own

Want to celebrate a birthday, a graduation, or just enjoy a change of scene? Plan your route to include quirky towns, hidden gems, or historic cities. Document your journey on social media – there’s a growing community of Wetherspoon explorers sharing their trips under hashtags like #SpoonsTour or #WetherspoonAdventure.

Final Thoughts

Planning an adventure with the Wetherspoon app might not be the first thing you think of – but it’s a budget-friendly and surprisingly fun way to explore Britain. With good food, cheap drinks, and comfy stays in unexpected places, it’s a perfect way to get out there without breaking the bank.

So grab your phone, round up your mates (or go solo!), and start planning your own Wetherspoon journey today.

Sunshine in a Bottle: Meet the New Caribbean Food Brand Here to Spice Up the UK Sauce Scene

Nimi Nosh has made its Tesco debut just in time for summer. The trio of punchy newcomers, Epic Jerk Quick Marinade & Sauce, Cracking Curry Quick Marinade & Sauce and Authentic Pepper Sauce, are now available, bursting with deep, aromatic spices, rich heritage and mouth-tingling intensity.

Designed to give ultimate versatility to spicy food lovers with a simple blend of impactful, plant-based ingredients, these sauces are the ultimate kitchen chameleon: they can be poured, dipped or used to marinade any dish. Think of it as your flavour saviour for home cooking and summer BBQs or whenever your meals need a lift of sunshine and spice.

Founded by Jamaican-born Londoner, Nicole Michael ('Nimi') and inspired by her mother's flavour-packed sauce recipes ('Nosh'), Nimi Nosh brings her family's contemporary Caribbean sauce recipes from the food markets of Kingston to UK kitchen tables for the first time. 

The recipes hitting shelves have been perfected by Nicole's family for decades and, following two years of development and taste-testing at over 70 food markets in the UK, Nimi Nosh is now much-loved by adventurous foodies. The first three products in the range arrived in the sauce aisle at 400 Tesco stores and online this month. 

Nimi Nosh will also launch an online shop later this year which will stock the full range.

Nicole Michael, Founder of Nimi Nosh, told That's Food and Drink: “Growing up in a big Jamaican family, I learnt that every meal is an opportunity for full flavour and true food love. My food adventures are all thanks to my Mum, a food market trader working in Kingston, Jamaica. 

"I spent my childhood helping her at the markets and in the kitchen. I was mesmerised by her artistry in combining specific spices to create sauces that brought sunshine to the hustle and bustle of my town and its people. This is what we've bottled up in this range, a way to 'jam'in the flava' to every meal and make it memorable. 

“We're on a mission to spark a Caribbean food revolution in the UK, so that everyone can buy and enjoy the true taste of Jamaica. To see my mum's sauces on-shelf in the mainstream sauce aisle of the UK's leading retailer means the absolute world.

“Pick up a bottle and play -  marinade your meat, season your veggies or simply drizzle on your plate to add a little bit of spice. With big tings planned, this is just the start for Nimi Nosh.”

Follow Nimi Nosh on Instagram and Facebook.

https://www.instagram.com/niminosh

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577881383454

Managing Acid Reflux Naturally: Foods and Supplements That Can Help

Acid reflux is a common condition that affects millions of people every year. If you’ve ever felt a burning sensation rising from your stomach to your throat after eating, you’ve likely experienced it.

 Though occasional acid reflux is usually harmless, chronic reflux – known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD or GERD) – can cause discomfort and damage if left unmanaged.

Let’s look at what causes acid reflux, which natural foods and supplements may ease symptoms, and which foods and drinks to avoid.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, irritating its lining. This is often due to a weakened lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) – the muscle that should close tightly after food enters the stomach.

Common symptoms include:

Heartburn (burning sensation in your chest)

Regurgitation of sour liquid or food

Bloating and burping

A lump-in-the-throat sensation

Chronic cough or hoarseness

Foods That May Help Ease Acid Reflux

Certain foods can soothe the digestive system, reduce inflammation, and help prevent reflux symptoms:

1. Oats

A great start to the day. Oats are high in fibre and absorb stomach acid, reducing the risk of reflux.

2. Ginger

Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and has been used for centuries to aid digestion. Try it in teas, smoothies, or grated into soups.

3. Bananas

Low in acid and high in potassium, bananas can help coat the oesophageal lining and reduce discomfort.

4. Melons

Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are low-acid fruits that are gentle on the stomach.

5. Leafy Greens and Non-Citrus Vegetables

Spinach, kale, cucumbers, and broccoli are low in acid and rich in nutrients.

6. Almond Milk

Unlike cow’s milk, almond milk is alkaline and may help neutralise stomach acid.

Natural Supplements for Reflux Relief

Slippery Elm

Forms a protective coating in the digestive tract. Often taken as a tea or lozenge.

Liquorice Root (DGL)

Deglycyrrhizinated liquorice supports the mucous lining of the stomach and oesophagus. Use caution with liquorice if you have high blood pressure.

Aloe Vera Juice

Soothes inflammation in the gut lining. Choose a version specifically labelled for internal use and free from laxative compounds.

Probiotics

Found in fermented foods or supplements, probiotics help support a healthy gut microbiome, which can aid digestion and reduce reflux.

Chamomile Tea

May reduce inflammation and promote relaxation of the digestive tract, helping to ease symptoms.

🚫 Foods and Drinks to Avoid

Certain foods relax the LES or increase stomach acid production, worsening reflux. Try reducing or avoiding:

High-Fat Foods

Fried foods, fatty meats, full-fat dairy, and creamy sauces slow digestion and increase pressure on the stomach.

Tomato-Based Products

Tomatoes and sauces are acidic and can aggravate the oesophagus.

Citrus Fruits

Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are high in acid and often trigger symptoms.

Spicy Foods

Chilli peppers, hot sauces, and curry dishes can cause heartburn in sensitive individuals.

Chocolate

Contains both caffeine and theobromine, which can relax the LES.

Caffeine and Carbonated Drinks

Coffee, cola, and fizzy drinks increase acidity and gas, making reflux more likely.

Alcohol

Wine, beer, and spirits relax the LES and can irritate the oesophagus.

Tips for Managing Acid Reflux Naturally

Eat smaller meals more frequently

Avoid lying down after eating (wait at least 2–3 hours)

Raise the head of your bed if reflux occurs at night

Maintain a healthy weight – excess weight increases pressure on the stomach

Wear loose-fitting clothes to reduce pressure on your abdomen

Final Thoughts

While acid reflux can be frustrating, natural strategies – including diet adjustments and herbal remedies – can make a big difference. However, persistent symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider, especially if accompanied by unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or persistent pain.

Try keeping a food diary to help identify your personal triggers – and don’t forget to listen to your gut.

Wine Tour Pro Reveals The 3 Dead Giveaways You're Being A Wine Snob

Wine tour expert identifies three common behaviors that scream ‘wine snob’ and how to avoid them.

Learn the difference between appreciating wine and alienating everyone around you with overblown terminology and corrections.

Expert explains how simple changes can help you enjoy wine culture without the intimidation factor

Wine tourism is booming across America, with more people than ever exploring vineyard trails and tasting rooms from Napa to the Finger Lakes. 

But there's a fine line between wine appreciation and wine snobbery, and crossing it can turn a fun afternoon into an awkward lesson in pretension.

“I've seen it countless times during our tours,” John Kelliher of Grapeline Wine Tours, which has been guiding wine enthusiasts through California's premier wine regions since 2002, told That's Food and Drink.

“Someone wants to show they know about wine, but they end up making everyone else feel uncomfortable or intimidated.”

Kelliher has identified three telltale behaviours that instantly mark someone as a wine snob, and more importantly, how to enjoy wine without alienating your fellow tasters.

The 3 Wine Snob Red Flags

1. Overusing Wine Jargon Like You're Writing Poetry

Nothing kills the vibe faster than someone describing a simple Chardonnay as having “notes of honeyed stone fruit with mineral undertones and a lingering finish that speaks to the terroir's unique expression.”

“When someone starts throwing around terms like ‘mouthfeel’ and ‘tertiary aromas’ for every sip, it's pretty obvious they're trying too hard,” Kelliher explains.

“Real wine knowledge doesn’t mean using the fanciest words. Rather, it’s about helping people connect with what they're tasting.”

The better approach? Keep it simple and relatable. Instead of “mineral undertones”, try “crisp and clean”. Rather than “full-bodied with robust tannins”, say “rich and smooth”. Your fellow tasters will understand what you mean, and you'll sound confident rather than pretentious.

“I tell our guests to describe wine the way they'd describe food to a friend,” Kelliher notes. “If it reminds you of green apples or vanilla, say that. Don't feel like you need a sommelier's vocabulary to enjoy a glass.”

2. Playing Wine Police With Everyone Else's Choices

We've all met that person who can't resist correcting others' wine preferences or techniques. They're the ones who'll interrupt your conversation to inform you that you're holding your glass wrong, or that your taste buds are “underdeveloped” if you prefer sweeter wines.

“The fastest way to ruin everyone's experience is to become the wine police,” Kelliher states. “I've watched people completely shut down because someone made them feel stupid for liking what they like.”

This includes the classic snob move of dismissing entire categories of wine. You know the type: they'll wrinkle their nose at anything that isn't a “serious” vintage or make comments about how “real wine lovers” don't drink rosé.

Instead, try being curious about other people's preferences. Ask what they enjoy about a particular wine rather than explaining why they're wrong. “Some of the most interesting conversations I've had on tours started with someone saying they usually hate reds, then finding one they loved,” Kelliher recalls.

3. Turning Every Sip Into A Performance

Perhaps the most cringe-worthy wine snob behavior is the theatrical tasting ritual. These are the people who swirl aggressively, take multiple loud sniffs, and make exaggerated facial expressions while “analysing” each wine as if they're performing for an audience.

“There's a difference between properly tasting wine and putting on a show,” Kelliher observes. “When someone's making a big production out of every sip, it's usually more about trying to appear knowledgeable than actually enjoying the wine.”

The over-the-top tasting performance often includes unnecessary commentary about every sensation, from the “initial attack on the palate” to the “evolution of flavours across the mid-palate.” It's exhausting to watch and even more exhausting to listen to.

“Good wine tasting is actually pretty subtle,” Kelliher explains. “A gentle swirl, a quick smell, and a thoughtful sip. You don't need to make it look like you're conducting an orchestra.”

The goal should be appreciation over performance. Take your time with the wine, but don't make everyone else wait while you go through an elaborate ritual that adds nothing to anyone's experience.

John went on to tell us: “Wine culture has this reputation for being intimidating, and honestly, a lot of that comes from people who think they need to prove how much they know. I've been doing this for over two decades, and the best wine experiences happen when everyone feels comfortable exploring and asking questions.

“The truth is, wine's are meant to be enjoyed, not analysed to death. Some of my favorite moments on tours are when someone discovers they actually love a wine they thought they'd hate, or when a group starts laughing about how different everyone's taste preferences are. That's what wine culture should be about – connection and discovery, not performance.

“My advice to anyone stepping into wine country is simple: be curious, be respectful of other people's preferences, and don't be afraid to admit when you don't know something. The best wine conversations I've ever had started with someone saying ‘I have no idea what I'm supposed to be tasting here’. That honesty opens doors to real learning and genuine enjoyment.”

You can learn more about their Californian wine tours by visiting them at gogrape.com.

FACTFILE:

Grapeline Wine Tours offers wine tasting tours and transportation throughout California's most celebrated wine regions: Temecula, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, Sonoma, and Napa. Founded in 2002, the company is known for its top-tier hospitality, expert hosts, and thoughtfully planned itineraries. Grapeline provides wine country tours designed for enjoyment, connection, and discovery, ideal for both first-time tasters and seasoned wine enthusiasts.

Savouring the August Bank Holiday: Foods, Drinks & Places to Go

The August Bank Holiday is the perfect excuse to slow down, soak up the last of the summer sunshine, and indulge in great food, refreshing drinks, and memorable days out. 

Whether you're planning a garden gathering, a picnic in the park, or a mini adventure away from home, here's how to make the most of the long weekend.

Delicious Foods for a Bank Holiday Feast

1. BBQ Bonanza

Fire up the grill and bring on the burgers, bangers, and skewers. Go classic with British sausages and marinated chicken, or mix it up with veggie kebabs, grilled halloumi, and portobello mushrooms.

2. Summer Salads That Shine

Bright, fresh, and seasonal – think heirloom tomato and mozzarella, couscous with roasted vegetables, or a zingy potato salad with spring onions and mustard dressing.

3. Picnic Perfection

Prepare a hamper with Scotch eggs, sausage rolls, quiches, crusty bread, British cheeses, grapes, and a punnet or two of strawberries. Add a chilled bottle of elderflower presse or prosecco for a touch of sparkle.

4. Sweet Treats to Finish

Eton mess, lemon drizzle cake, and scones with jam and clotted cream are always crowd-pleasers. For a twist, try frozen fruit skewers or make your own ice lollies with juice and chunks of fresh fruit.

Drinks to Toast the Holiday

1. Pimm’s O’Clock

No British summer celebration is complete without a jug of Pimm’s, packed with mint, cucumber, strawberries, and oranges.

2. Summer Cocktails & Mocktails

Try a blackberry mojito, a gin and elderflower fizz, or a peach bellini. For alcohol-free options, serve iced hibiscus tea with lemon, or cucumber and mint-infused sparkling water.

3. Craft Beer and Ciders

Support local breweries and stock up on seasonal ales and refreshing fruit ciders—ideal for beer gardens or back garden chilling.

Where to Go This Bank Holiday

1. Seaside Escapes

From Whitby to Brighton, Cornwall to the Norfolk coast, a day at the seaside brings a nostalgic charm. Don’t forget the fish and chips—and maybe a paddle in the sea.

2. Countryside Walks and Pub Stops

Lace up your walking boots and head for the Peak District, Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, or South Downs. Reward yourself with a pub lunch in a thatched inn with a garden.

3. City Breaks with Culture

Cities like Edinburgh, Bristol, or Liverpool come alive with festivals, food markets, and live music over the long weekend.

4. Local Events & Festivals

Check listings for food fairs, beer festivals, vintage car shows, or outdoor cinema nights in your area. Many villages and towns host late summer fetes and carnivals too.

Top Tips for a Brilliant Bank Holiday

Book ahead: Whether it’s a restaurant, hotel, or activity, places can fill up fast.

Pack for British weather: Sunglasses, sunscreen, umbrella, and a jumper—just in case!

Shop local: Support local farms, delis, and bakeries when buying supplies.

Unplug: Take a break from your phone and enjoy the moment—you’ve earned it.

Conclusion

The August Bank Holiday is your golden ticket to enjoying the best of British summer before the season begins to fade. With delicious home-cooked food, refreshing drinks, and delightful places to visit, you don’t need to travel far to create lasting memories.

Whether you’re sunning yourself on the coast, toasting with friends in the garden, or exploring a hidden village pub, here’s to making the most of your Bank Holiday weekend!

What’s in My Freezer? How ChatGPT Helped Me Take Back Control

Let’s be honest – most of us have a drawer of doom in our freezer. It starts with good intentions and ends with half a bag of peas, mystery stew, and freezer-burnt baguettes. I decided to reclaim mine – with ChatGPT’s help.

Step 1: The Audit

I pulled everything out and made a list. Here’s where ChatGPT came in. I gave it the list and asked, "What meals can I make with these?" Within moments, it offered:

A slow cooker veg soup using frozen spinach, diced onions, and carrots.

Chicken fajitas with frozen peppers and thighs.

A pasta bake using leftover bolognese and frozen sweetcorn.

Step 2: The Plan

Using the suggestions, I planned the week ahead, freeing space and saving money.

Step 3: The Label Fix

ChatGPT even helped me write freezer labels. Just type:

"Create a printable label for frozen chicken thighs with defrost and use-by instructions."

Taste Worcestershire - The Foodie's Favourite Returns for 2025 With a Feast of Fresh Flavours

It's time to experience the best of the county's culinary delights and sample the finest produce from local food producers, brands, and businesses - welcome to Taste Worcestershire. 

This is great news for me, as my maternal grandfather's family were farmers in the Vale of Evesham in Worcestershire. 

Showcasing specially curated menus from local chefs and bringing together the best artisan producers and culinary talent in the area, visitors can take advantage of unmissable offers and discover the stories behind Worcestershire's rich agricultural heritage - from field to fork.

“It's time to savour the county's flavour! We are incredibly excited to announce the return ofTaste Worcestershire, which is all about celebrating our local producers, chefs, and independent venues who make the county such a vibrant place to eat and drink. 

"This October, we're encouraging residents and visitors alike to explore somewhere new, try something different, and support the brilliant businesses on their doorstep. There's never been a better time to taste what Worcestershire has to offer," Lorna Robinson, Visitor Economy Manager, Visit Worcestershire explained to That's Food and Drink.

Culinary adventurers will have the opportunity to dine at their favourite restaurants and enjoy unique set menus with special discounts, all accessible through one voucher available to download from the Visit Worcestershire website. 

The offers and experiences will run from 6th October to 26th October 2025 and will be available throughout the week and weekends.

The TASTE WORCESTERSHIRE line-up revealed so far includes:

Black & Green a modern 16-seater neighbourhood restaurant in the heart of Barnt Green, Worcestershire. Black symbolises 'classical' and green 'sustainable'.

Brockencote Hall experience quality dining when you visit the venues restaurants in Kidderminster, enhanced by panoramic rural views across the estate and a superb wine cellar.

Canary & Kitchen home dining and restaurant experience bringing stylish, exciting menus to more people. Enjoy excellent cuisine and service from a Masterchef UK contestant.

Hanbao regions leading Independent Burger restaurant & Cocktail bar based in Worcester.

Hogarths Stone Manor delicious food from three local counties of Worcestershire, Warwickshire and Herefordshire. Sourcing local ingredients and by the seasons and the wonderful growers, farmers and producers that surround the venue.

Paisley at 106 experience luxury dining and award-winning food at this beautiful venue in Stourport on Severn. Dine in intimate settings, where every plate tells a story.

Sow  the newest restaurant from acclaimed chef Andrew Sheridan — a refined farm-to-table dining experience nestled within the scenic Netherwood Estate.

Stirrups in Evesham combines proper food and drinks to bring you a relaxed, modern and unique dining experience. (Which is where I come in, if you see what I mean!)

The Lygon Arms showcases a specially curated menu of exemplary dishes by celebrated chef, James Martin inspired by local, artisanal and seasonal produce.

The Old Bull is a 16th Century Inn, located in the picturesque and quaint village of Inkberrow. Traditional ales and ever–changing guest beers, the pub offers traditional food and daily specials on its home-cooked menu. 

Incidentally, Inkberrow is said to be the model village for Ambridge in The Archers, whilst the Old Bull is acknowledged as the model for The Bull pub in The Archers. 

More venues are to be announced in the coming weeks, so keep updated through the Visit Worcestershire website, or sign up for the latest newsletters; food enthusiasts should not miss this experience. 

And That's Food and Drink will continue to bring you up-to-date news on Taste Worcestershire, so watch this space.

https://visitworcestershire.org/taste-worcestershire

How ChatGPT Can Help You Keep Your Pantry, Fridge, and Freezer Organised and Clutter-Free

Surrounded by stuff in your kitchen? Help's available!

Let’s face it, most of us have opened our fridge only to be greeted by a mystery container from who-knows-when, or a pantry shelf that’s somehow home to five bags of flour but no sugar. 

Keeping your food storage areas neat, logical, and efficient can feel like a never-ending battle.

But what if you had a clever, ever-ready assistant to help you stay on top of it all?

Enter ChatGPT – your digital kitchen companion. Here’s how using ChatGPT can make a real difference in how you manage your pantry, fridge, and freezer.

1. Smart Inventory Management

Keeping track of what you already have is the first step to staying organised. ChatGPT can help you:

Create and maintain an easy-to-follow inventory list.

Categorise your items (e.g. dry goods, tinned food, dairy, frozen veg).

Set reminders to check expiry dates or rotate items.

Suggest ways to use up ingredients that are near their use-by date.

You can simply type out a list of what's in your pantry, and ChatGPT can format it, highlight soon-to-expire items, and even suggest what you’re missing for your favourite go-to meals.

2. Meal Planning Made Easy

Clutter often comes from impulse shopping or not knowing what to cook. ChatGPT helps you:

Plan meals based on what you already have.

Suggest recipes using odd ingredients (yes, even that half-used jar of sun-dried tomatoes).

Build a weekly meal plan to avoid buying duplicates or unnecessary extras.

No more aimless wandering in the supermarket or last-minute takeaways.

3. Smarter Shopping Lists

ChatGPT can generate shopping lists based on your pantry/fridge inventory and your meal plan. That means:

You buy only what you need.

You avoid overstocking.

You save money and reduce food waste.

You can even ask ChatGPT to build a budget-friendly shopping list, focus on healthier swaps, or stick to seasonal produce.

4. Freezer Organisation and Batch Cooking Support

Freezers are often black holes of forgotten leftovers and ice-encrusted mystery meals. ChatGPT can help you:

Label and date freezer items (just type them in and get printable labels).

Create batch cooking plans and freezing guides.

Suggest what to defrost and use up this week.

Remind you of best-before times for frozen foods.

It’s like having a kitchen manager on call 24/7 – minus the bossy attitude.

5. Cleaning and Decluttering Routines

If your kitchen storage has become chaotic, ChatGPT can walk you through:

A 30-minute declutter challenge.

A weekly fridge clean-up schedule.

Seasonal pantry audits.

Tips for donating unopened food to foodbanks, or reusing storage containers.

Everything is tailored to your pace, your space, and your lifestyle.

Bonus: Custom Tips for Your Diet or Lifestyle

Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, or just feeding a fussy toddler, ChatGPT can adjust its recommendations to suit your household. Want to keep your “snack zone” tidy, or create a prep station for smoothies? Just ask.

You don’t need a spreadsheet, (I hate trying to use spreadsheets, which was one of the inspirations for writing this post!) a clipboard, or a home organisation guru to get your kitchen in order, you just need a bit of guidance and the right digital tool. 

ChatGPT makes it easy to stay on top of what’s in your pantry, fridge and freezer, so you can eat well, waste less, and enjoy a stress-free kitchen every day.

Let ChatGPT do the thinking – so you can do the cooking.

Want to try it?

Send over a quick list of your pantry items and let ChatGPT whip up a plan – you’ll be amazed at how much easier meal prep and food shopping become!

Celebrate Left-Handers Day with Parties, Food, and a Leftward Twist!

As a left-handed person, I very strongly approve of this message!

Every year on 13th August, we celebrate the wonderfully unique world of the left-handed! Left-Handers Day is all about recognising the 10-12% of the population who navigate a right-handed world in their own brilliant way. 

So, why not mark the occasion with a quirky celebration full of lefty-themed parties, delicious food, and drinks—including a cheeky new cocktail crafted especially for the occasion?

Throw a Left-Handers Day Party

Whether you’re left-handed yourself (like my wife and I) or just know someone who is, this is the perfect excuse for a fun, themed get-together.

Here are some playful party ideas:

Left-Handed Games: Set up challenges like left-handed doodling, left-hand-only Jenga, or even lefty darts. It’s trickier than you’d think!

Left-Facing Décor: Decorate your party space with arrows pointing left, mirror writing banners, and fun facts about famous lefties (from Leonardo da Vinci to Lady Gaga).

Swap Hands for the Night: Encourage right-handers to spend the evening using only their left hand. It'll give them a new appreciation!

 Left-Inspired Food

Celebrate with dishes that play into the theme, either visually or by name. Try:

Lefty Finger Foods – Serve everything in left-leaning spirals or shapes (pinwheels, crescent rolls, swirl cupcakes).

"Sinister" Snacks – Did you know ‘sinister’ comes from the Latin for ‘left’? Use it cheekily to name your snack table.

Themed Platters – Create a "Left Side of the World" grazing board featuring foods from countries with high left-handed populations (the Netherlands, Australia, the US, and the UK all rank high!).

Introducing the “Left Hook” Cocktail

What better way to toast Left-Handers Day than with a custom cocktail designed just for the occasion?

The Left Hook

A zingy, slightly unexpected cocktail that’s sweet, spicy, and packs a punch from the left!

Ingredients:

25ml spiced rum

25ml gin

15ml elderflower liqueur

10ml fresh lime juice

Ginger beer to top

A dash of pink peppercorn syrup (optional for heat)

Left-spiral lime twist, to garnish

Method:

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

Add the rum, gin, elderflower liqueur, lime juice, and pink peppercorn syrup.

Shake well, then strain into a tumbler filled with fresh ice.

Top with ginger beer and garnish with a left-spiralled lime twist.

Serve with a straw… on the left side, of course.

Want to go all-out? Serve it in a glass shaped like a left hand or mark the left side with a fun sticker so people remember which hand to toast with.

Drinks and Desserts for All

Round out your drinks offering with mocktail versions of the Left Hook, plus:

"Leftie Lemonade" – with lavender and blackberry

"Sinister Sundaes" – chocolate swirls curving leftward with popping candy surprises

Ambidextrous Appetisers – food everyone can enjoy, no matter their dominant hand

Raise a Left-Handed Toast

Let’s face it, left-handers deserve more than just a day of recognition. So this year, let your party be a joyous and slightly offbeat celebration of all things lefty. Celebrate your quirks, mix a “Left Hook”, and toast to the creativity, cleverness and charm that left-handers bring to the world.

Have you planned a Left-Handers Day bash or invented your own lefty-inspired dish or drink? Share it with us on social media using #LeftHandersDay and tag your lefty mates!