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Wednesday, 27 August 2025

Nourished Brings Innovative, Science-Backed Nutritional Gummies to Ocado Customers

Nourished, the award-winning nutrition gummy brand who skillfully combined the science of 3D printing with cutting-edge nutritional supplements, is thrilled to announce its launch on Ocado, the world’s most dedicated online supermarket. 

The new partnership marks another milestone for the innovative wellness company, following successful retail listings earlier this year with Boots and Holland & Barrett.

The Ocado range features four expertly formulated nutrient stacks, each designed to address key areas of health and wellbeing:

Nourished Collagen+ Gut – A powerful blend of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, clinically shown to promote gut balance, help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, and support immune function.

Nourished Collagen+ Agility – Expertly formulated to support joint flexibility, cognitive clarity, and skin vitality in one convenient dose.

Revive+ Nutrient Stack – Designed to combat fatigue, boost vitality, and provide sustained energy throughout the day.

Nourished Collagen+ Hair, Skin & Nails – A popular product designed to enhance the health skin, hair, and nails using a mix of scientifically supported nutrients.

The collaboration was inspired through Nourished Founder & CEO Melissa Snover’s involvement with Buy Women Built (BWB) – a community dedicated to championing female entrepreneurship and brands founded by women in the UK. 

Last year, Ocado Retail partnered with BWB to launch a dedicated aisle for female-founded brands, opening up opportunities for female founders to showcase their inspiring and innovative products on a more inclusive marketplace.

"I’m incredibly proud to see Nourished launching with Ocado and joining the Buy Women Built aisle," Melissa Snover, Founder and CEO of Nourished told That's Food and Drink. 

She went on to say: "This partnership not only helps us reach more people with our personalised, science-backed nutrition, but also shines a light on the power of female-founded innovation in the UK. Together with Ocado, we are making wellness more accessible, sustainable, and inclusive for everyone."

Nourished’s sustainably packaged, vegetarian, and sugar-free gummies are freshly made in the company’s cutting-edge hybrid facility in Birmingham using proprietary 3D printing technology. Each nutrient stack is formulated with clinically backed ingredients and manufactured on-demand to ensure maximum efficacy and absorption.

With this new listing, Ocado customers can now access Nourished’s convenient, great-tasting nutrition solutions as part of their regular grocery shop.

https://www.ocado.com/search?q=Nourished%20stacks

https://get-nourished.com

Nourished is a brand revolutionising personal wellness by utilising its patented 3D printing technology to create personalised 7-layer nutrient gummy stacks. These stacks are designed specifically for an individual’s health and lifestyle needs. 

Each is a scientifically formulated blend of high-impact nutrients, vitamins, and superfoods, freshly made-to-order for maximum efficacy and optimal absorption. In addition to personalised stacks, Nourished also offers a range of targeted products within its Life Stack and Collagen ranges. Nourished is part of Rem3dy Health Ltd, founded by Melissa.

That's Christmas 365: Opies. Perfect for Christmas

That's Christmas 365: Opies. Perfect for Christmas: Festive Foodies Unite! Opies have the perfect Christmas Gifts for Home Cooks , Secret Santas & Stocking Stuffers You can really hit t...

New Research Reveals Why ADHD Impacts Nutrition. And How Nuts Can Help

Missing meals is a weekly or even daily habit for 63% of people with ADHD, according to a recent study from neurodiversity experts at So Nutrition.  

The research illustrates the challenges people with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) face when it comes to diet and eating habits, with nine in 10 admitting to struggling with impulsive eating.  

"Skipping meals can be attributed to ADHD’s core symptoms of impulsivity, inattention and executive function differences, which all hinder self-regulation and awareness of internal hunger signals,” explains leading ADHD nutritional therapist Sarah Osborne, founder of So Nutrition.

She told That's Food and Drink: “Similarly, for neurodivergent individuals, impulsive or emotional eating often goes beyond food itself and can relate to brain chemistry and biochemical balance, as well as being a response to emotions such as stress, frustration and feeling overwhelmed.” 

The independent research, conducted with 500 UK adults who have ADHD, attests to the extent of the challenges and has been used in a new report for the healthcare community to provide support and guidance when working with neurodivergent people.  

Sarah Osborne
Sarah Osborne continues: “When eating turns into an emotional and impulsive response, it becomes easy to feel trapped in a cycle of guilt and frustration. We hope our study will support greater understanding of these challenges, which are closely linked to the way the neurodivergent brain responds to the world.” 

ADHD affects around 3.5% of adults and 5% of children in the UK. The study comes at a time when over half a million people are on waiting lists for diagnosis, according to NHS data released in May this year.  

In addition, the research revealed that: 

Nearly all (96%) acknowledged they can forget to eat as a result of being hyper focused on other tasks, with 43% saying this happens often  

Nearly eight in 10 (78%) say they are highly sensitive to certain textures, tastes and smells. Tomatoes, mushrooms and bananas are some of the foods mentioned most 

More than nine in 10 (91%) find it difficult to plan or prepare meals   

With specialisms in nutrigenomics, ADHD and impulsive eating, So Nutrition has worked with hundreds of neurodivergent people dealing with a wide range of dietary challenges. Led by award-winning nutritionist Sarah Osborne, the practice fosters kindness and self-compassion to enhance nutritional goals.  

Here are So Nutrition’s top tips to supporting an ADHD-friendly diet:   

1. Add more into your diet, don't take away 

People often associate diets with restrictive eating but adding more into your diet is usually the best approach to finding better balance. Neurodivgent people are likely to keep eating the same foods, so introducing more variety and having easy-to-follow recipes can make food fun. You can liven up staple dishes and snacks with simple steps. For example, try adding Brazil nuts to your fruit smoothie for a selenium and zinc boost. 

 2. Embrace convenience food 

Many people with ADHD find meal planning and cooking somewhat challenging, due to cognitive differences associated with executive functions, or put simply because their brain works in a different way. If that’s the case, don’t make life hard for yourself. There are plenty ways to use convenience foods within a balanced diet. Tinned mackerel or sardines on toast are packed with vitamins, minerals, calcium and healthy fats, or try adding some tinned black beans into your soup or salad to give it a protein boost. 

3. Keep hydrated 

Most people don't drink enough water and if you're hyper-focused on a task (a common trait with ADHD) it’s very easy to forget. Set yourself reminders – that’s a good message for everybody as being properly hydrated can make a huge difference to how you feel and help reduce hunger cravings. Keep a jug or a two-litre bottle of water where it’s visible, as cues will help form new habits. 

4. Be kind  

New habits take time. Whether you’re supporting family or friends or trying to change your own eating behaviours, it’s important be kind. For adults and children with ADHD, the noise and distractions surrounding food can be overwhelming. Combined with a tendency towards impulsive behaviours and the need to find sameness and safety, this means relationships with food can quickly become complicated. Take small steps towards change – over time they can make a huge difference.  

5. Make food your friend 

ADHD brains tend towards an all-or-nothing approach which can often lead to challenges with food. If that sounds familiar, making food your friend can help you find that middle ground, so you can enjoy what you eat and find better balance. Keep jars of nuts and seeds handy to help with snacking and add a few new items into your cupboard week by week, so you can start to try more meal plans without stressing yourself out. 

To find out more about So Nutrition or for easy-to-follow recipe books including 

100 ADHD-friendly Recipes visit https://adhdandnutrition.co.uk

Tuesday, 26 August 2025

Surviving the Stomach Bug: Your Sofa-Side Survival Kit

We’ve All Been There: Battling the Bug!

We’ve all had that dreaded 24–48 hours when life comes to a screeching halt thanks to the bug. You know the one – dashing to the loo, feeling decidedly green around the gills, and wondering if you’ll ever fancy food again. 

Not glamorous, not fun, but thankfully short-lived.

So, while you’re curled up on the sofa in your comfiest pyjamas, here’s a light-hearted guide to what to sip, nibble, and pick up from the chemist to help you get back on your feet.

Sip, Don’t Guzzle

When your stomach’s in revolt, big drinks can feel like a bad idea. The trick is little and often.

Water – plain, boring, but the hero of the hour.

Rehydration sachets – Dioralyte or similar. Yes, they taste faintly of salty squash, but they work wonders.

Weak squash or watered-down juice – a gentle nudge of flavour without overwhelming your tummy.

Herbal teas – peppermint to soothe, ginger to settle. Think of it as a mini spa treatment… for your stomach.

The Return of Food (Slowly Does It)

When the thought of food doesn’t make you cringe, start with bland and gentle.

Dry toast or crackers – the ultimate comfort “non-food”.

Bananas – soft, easy, and packed with potassium.

Plain rice or pasta – filling without drama.

Clear soups or broths – warming, hydrating, and kind on the tummy.

Tip: Think nursery food, not spicy curry night.

What to Avoid (a.k.a. Don’t Do This to Yourself)

Greasy fry-ups – not your friend right now.

Dairy – milk and cheese can wait.

Alcohol & caffeine – that post-bug coffee or pint will taste better when you’re properly recovered.

Fizzy drinks – unless you enjoy feeling like a shaken-up bottle of cola.

Chemist Shelf Saviours

Sometimes a little over-the-counter backup is all you need:

Rehydration salts – boring but brilliant.

Paracetamol – for aches and fever.

Loperamide (Imodium) – useful if you have to leave the house, though usually it’s best to let nature take its course.

Antacids – for those “why is my stomach so gurgly?” moments.

Rest is Best

The only thing left to do? Rest, nap, and binge-watch something guilt-free. Keep a blanket handy, stay hydrated, and don’t even think about cooking for anyone else until you’re properly better (no one wants to share those germs!).

Most of us bounce back within a couple of days, and by then you’ll be more than ready for a proper meal again.

Bottom line: ride it out with fluids, bland bites, and rest. Before you know it, you’ll be swapping soup for Sunday roast again.

Incidentally the inspiration for this blogpost came when I was binge watching some Star Trek: Next Generation DVDs having fallen victim to the dreaded bug myself earlier in the day! I also managed to buy a couple of Original Series DVDs, too.

Simple Recipe: Braised Steaks on a Bed of Carrots

Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most comforting, and braised steaks on a bed of carrots is one of those timeless meals. 

It’s hearty, easy to prepare, and only requires a handful of ingredients – perfect for a family supper or a weekend dinner when you want something warming without too much fuss.

This recipe is based on my mother's recipe for braising steak. The flavour of the carrots, infused with the gravy and the juices of the steaks is one of my fondest culinary memories of my childhood.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

4 braising steaks (such as chuck or blade)

500g carrots, peeled and cut into chunky batons

1 large onion, sliced

2 cloves garlic, crushed

2 tbsp plain flour

500ml beef stock (or a mix of stock and a splash of red wine, if desired)

2 tbsp vegetable oil

1 bay leaf

A few sprigs of thyme (or 1 tsp dried)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method

Prepare the steaks

Pat the steaks dry with kitchen paper, season with salt and pepper, then lightly coat them with flour.

Brown the meat

Heat the oil in a large casserole dish or heavy pan. Fry the steaks for a couple of minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Soften the vegetables

Add the onion, garlic, and carrots to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes until they start to soften and take on a little colour.

Build the flavour

Return the steaks to the pan, tuck in the bay leaf and thyme, and pour over the stock (and wine if using). Bring to a gentle simmer.

Slow braise

Cover with a lid and cook on a low heat for 2–2½ hours, or until the meat is tender and the carrots are soft. You can also do this step in the oven at 160°C (140°C fan).

Serve

Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs before serving. Plate the steaks on top of the carrots with plenty of the rich cooking juices spooned over.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious simply served with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered new potatoes. A side of steamed greens like cabbage or tenderstem broccoli makes a fresh, vibrant addition

Why you’ll love this recipe:

It’s budget-friendly, hearty, and requires little effort once everything is in the pot. The carrots add a natural sweetness that balances the rich beef, and the slow braising ensures melt-in-the-mouth tenderness.

The Vicar and the Hotelier Accidentally Meet for Afternoon Tea at The Star Hotel, Alfriston

In a chance encounter that could only be described as highly erendipitous, renowned English Tea Room Guide expert, the Reverend Joe Ellis, crossed paths with illustrious hotelier Alex Polizzi, famously known as The Hotel Inspector, at The Star hotel in Alfriston, East Sussex.

During his visit to The Star hotel for a review of its afternoon tea service, Ellis was pleasantly surprised to find Alex Polizzi already on-site. 

The two industry experts found themselves face-to-face unexpectedly, and a momentous brief discussion ensued.

Reflecting on the encounter, Ellis told That's Food and Drink: "I knew Alex owned three hotels, but I didn't realise she was so hands-on. It was a delightful surprise to bump into each other at The Star. The scones were exceptional, as was the tea, and the hotel itself is one that I can highly recommend. 

"I frequent many upmarket hotels throughout England and stayed at the five star Waldorf Astoria in New York but, with hand on heart, you’ll find it hard to find a hotel to equal Alex’s. Staff are super engaging; I even had one of the chefs walk past me with a smile and a wave. The whole experience was so special.”

The brief yet impactful interaction between Ellis and Polizzi at The Star hotel brought together two pillars of the hospitality industry. With Ellis’s expertise in English tea rooms and Polizzi’s reputation as a discerning hotel owner and critic, their chance meeting added a layer of intrigue and camaraderie to the culinary scene in Alfriston.

Despite their divergent areas of expertise, Ellis and Polizzi found common ground in their shared passion for exceptional hospitality and culinary experiences. The impromptu photo taken during their encounter captured a moment of mutual respect and admiration between the two experts.

As news of their meeting spread, excitement rippled through the local hospitality community, with many eagerly anticipating any potential collaborations or insights that may arise from the encounter between the tea room expert and The Hotel Inspector.

The Star hotel in Alfriston emerged as the perfect backdrop for this unexpected convergence of industry titans, showcasing its commitment to excellence in both its accommodations and culinary offerings. The unexpected encounter between Ellis and Polizzi serves as a testament to the vibrant and interconnected world of hospitality.

Learn more about Joe Ellis’ Tea Room Guide at https://tea-room-guide.org.uk

Professionally, Joe Ellis is an 8th Dan Black Belt within karate of international repute, held in high esteem in the martial arts. He is the part time CEO to the National Governing Body for martial arts, NAKMAS https://nakmas.org.uk and has been practising and coaching karate for almost five decades

Joe was also ordained in May 2020 and is now legally known as the Reverend Joe Ellis https://revjoeellis.church

To learn more about The Star Hotel visit https://thepolizzicollection.com/the-star

Sweet Spreads Aren't Just For The Kids, Says Bonne Maman

Bonne Maman says that our love of sweet spreads is spreading nationwide, so says a new survey.  

Over 9 in every 10 adults in the UK eat sweet snacks or spreads on a weekly, and sometimes, daily basis,  with 4 out of 10 of us 'enjoying the taste', 1 in 3 'fancied something sweet' and 1 in 5 saying 'it's a reward'.

The brand's latest introductions, new Salted Butter Caramel Spread and Sweet & Crunchy Peanut Spread also hits the sweet spot; far from being just favourite flavours for children, over 70% choose chocolate, peanut or caramel spreads as adult treats. 

Some 50% of adults prefer chocolate, 1 in 4 choose the caramel spreads and 1 in 5 the nut-based flavours - peanut just edging hazelnut for popularity.… and not necessarily for sharing either! 

Over half those surveyed admitted they'd bought the sweet spread as a treat for just themselves. Whether to be eaten solo or with family and friends an eager 1 in 7 spoon straight from the jar (and if you do you're twice as likely to be female than male, 18% compared to 9%, just sayin'...). 

Around a quarter of uis Brits prefer sweet spreads on brioche or toast, a quarter prefer pancakes, waffles or crumpets and a further quarter would use a biscuit, muffin or slice of cake to 'carry' their chosen sweet spread.           

New Salted Butter Caramel Spread

An indulgent new choice for a 'just for me' moment is Salted Butter Caramel Spread - rich, buttery and creamy caramel made with salted butter, cream and absolutely no palm oil. Now available from Tesco stores at £2.90 rrp per 275g jar – with further national distribution available over the coming month.

Monday, 25 August 2025

The Best Meal Planning Apps to Make Cooking Easier

In today’s world, your smartphone or computer can be just as valuable a kitchen tool as your favourite frying pan. 

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just learning the ropes, there’s a whole range of apps designed to make cooking easier, more organised, and a lot more fun. 

From meal planning to cooking along with step-by-step instructions, these apps can transform your everyday cooking.

1. Meal Planning and Grocery Lists

One of the biggest challenges in home cooking isn’t actually cooking – it’s working out what to cook. Apps like Mealime, Yummly, and Paprika allow you to plan your meals for the week, save recipes, and even generate shopping lists based on your selections. Some will even link to local supermarkets so you can order your ingredients directly.

2. Recipe Discovery

Gone are the days of rifling through cookbooks (though they still have their charms). Apps like Tasty and BBC Good Food provide thousands of recipes with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Many include step-by-step videos, which are a lifesaver if you’re trying out a new technique for the first time.

3. Reducing Food Waste

If your fridge is full but you “have nothing to eat,” apps like SuperCook and Cookpad come to the rescue. Simply type in what ingredients you already have, and they’ll suggest recipes to use them up. It’s a brilliant way to save money, reduce food waste, and avoid the dreaded last-minute dash to the shop.

4. Special Diet Support

If you’re following a specific diet – whether that’s vegetarian, vegan, keto, or gluten-free – apps such as Forks Over Knives and Carb Manager can guide you with recipes that fit your lifestyle. They also often include nutritional information, which is handy if you’re tracking your intake.

5. Kitchen Organisation and Timing

Ever burned a roast because you forgot the timer? Apps like Kitchen Stories or even simple multi-timer apps help keep track of different cooking times when you’ve got several pans on the go. Some even let you record your own notes, so you remember that 15 minutes was perfect for that batch of brownies.

6. Cooking Along with Technology

For those who love a bit of smart tech, some apps connect directly with kitchen gadgets like air fryers, sous-vide machines, or smart ovens. Brands like Instant Pot and Ninja Kitchen have their own apps packed with recipes tailored to their products.

Cooking at home should be enjoyable, not stressful. With the right apps on your phone or computer, you can discover new recipes, cut down on waste, keep your kitchen organised, and even make healthier choices. So next time you reach for a pan, don’t forget to reach for your phone too – it might just make dinner prep that much easier.

Saturday, 23 August 2025

Celebrate National Beach Day with a Party to Remember

Whilst on a trip to the city of Chester I came across a delightful scene. Families were playing in a beach area with real sand in a shopping centre. 

This started me thinking of beach parties, plus the fact that every year, 30th August gives us the perfect excuse to kick off our shoes, feel the sand between our toes, and celebrate National Beach Day. 

Whether you live by the sea, near a riverbank, or are planning a garden or indoor party with a coastal theme, it’s a wonderful chance to gather friends and family for sun, sand, and seaside fun.

Beach Party Ideas

1. Classic Beach Picnic

Pack hampers full of summer favourites—think fresh sandwiches, fruit salads, crisps, and homemade lemonade. Don’t forget a cool box with plenty of ice to keep drinks chilled. A simple picnic blanket spread out on the sand can set the scene for a relaxed and fuss-free celebration.

2. Barbecue by the Shore

If your local beach allows it, a small barbecue can make your National Beach Day extra special. Burgers, veggie skewers, grilled fish, and sweetcorn are always crowd-pleasers. Add marshmallows or s’mores for a nostalgic treat as the sun sets. But always, always make sure that your barbecue is safely and properly extinguished before you leave the beach and is disposed of carefully. 

3. Themed Decorations

Even if you can’t make it to the coast, you can still bring the beach vibe home. Decorate your garden with seashell garlands, inflatable palm trees, and tiki torches. A paddling pool or sandpit can add a playful touch for children (and adults alike!).

4. Games and Activities

Keep everyone entertained with beach volleyball, frisbee, or a sandcastle-building contest. If your party’s indoors, swap to limbo competitions, seaside bingo, or a playlist filled with summer classics to keep the holiday spirit alive.

5. Signature Beach Drinks

Nothing says “party” quite like a themed drink menu. Serve tropical mocktails, piña coladas, or coconut water in fun glasses with little paper umbrellas. For a non-alcoholic crowd pleaser, try sparkling water with slices of fresh citrus and mint.

Why Celebrate?

National Beach Day isn’t just about sunbathing and seaside snacks—it’s also a reminder to appreciate and care for our coastlines. Consider adding a clean-up element to your celebration. Even half an hour of collecting litter makes a big difference and keeps the beach beautiful for everyone.

A Final Splash

Whether you’re on the sand, in your garden, or recreating the seaside indoors, National Beach Day is the perfect reason to throw a party. Gather your loved ones, mix up some beachy drinks, and enjoy the last golden days of summer.

Celebrate the August Bank Holiday with a BBQ or an Indoor Feast

The August Bank Holiday is the perfect excuse to slow down, gather with friends and family, and enjoy good food. 

Whether the sun graces us with its presence or the great British weather decides otherwise, you can celebrate in style with a sizzling BBQ or a cosy indoor feast.

Fire Up the BBQ

If the skies are clear, a Bank Holiday BBQ is a must. The smell of charcoal and the sound of food sizzling instantly puts everyone in a relaxed, festive mood.

Classic Favourites: Burgers, sausages, chicken skewers, and veggie kebabs never go out of fashion.

Something Special: Try marinated lamb chops, halloumi with honey, or salmon wrapped in foil with lemon and herbs.

Sides to Share: Potato salad, corn on the cob, crunchy slaws, and plenty of fresh bread rolls make the perfect accompaniments.

Drinks & Treats: Pimms, iced tea, or craft beer pair beautifully with BBQ flavours. For pudding, think fruity pavlovas or toasted marshmallows.

An Indoor Feast

Sometimes the weather doesn’t play ball, but that’s no reason to let the celebrations stop. Turn your kitchen and dining room into a banquet hall and cook up a feast.

Sharing Platters: A roast chicken or joint of beef carved at the table feels wonderfully communal. Pair with roast potatoes, seasonal veg, and Yorkshire puddings.

Cosy Comforts: Cottage pie, lasagne, or a hearty curry can feed a crowd and bring warmth to a rainy day.

Make it Interactive: Try a DIY taco bar or a build-your-own pizza station – guaranteed fun for all ages.

Finish in Style: Classic British desserts like apple crumble, sticky toffee pudding, or a trifle will end the meal on a sweet note.

Create the Atmosphere

Food is at the heart of the day, but don’t forget the atmosphere. String up some fairy lights in the garden, put on a cheerful playlist, or light candles indoors for a warm, welcoming glow. Games, quizzes, or even a singalong can keep everyone entertained long after the plates are cleared.

The Joy of Togetherness

However you choose to celebrate, the August Bank Holiday is about making memories with the people you love. Whether it’s the laughter around the BBQ or the cosiness of a shared meal indoors, good food has a way of bringing us together – rain or shine.