International Day of Charity: How Food and Drink Can Make a Difference

Every year on 5th September, the world comes together to mark the International Day of Charity – a moment to reflect on kindness, giving back, and the power of collective action. 

Established by the United Nations in 2012, the date was chosen in honour of the anniversary of Mother Teresa’s passing, a woman whose life was dedicated to helping the most vulnerable.

While charity can take many forms – from financial donations to volunteering – food and drink hold a special place in the story of giving. Sharing a meal is one of the most fundamental human gestures of care and community, and it remains at the heart of many charitable initiatives across the globe.

Fighting Hunger and Food Poverty

One of the most pressing issues that charitable organisations address is hunger. Across the UK and worldwide, food banks and community kitchens are lifelines for families struggling with the cost of living. Donating non-perishable items, supporting local pantries, or volunteering your time at a food distribution centre are practical ways anyone can contribute.

Reducing Waste, Feeding Communities

In recent years, many businesses in the food and drink sector have partnered with charities to tackle food waste. Surplus food from supermarkets, restaurants, and cafés is redirected to people in need rather than ending up in landfill. Apps like Too Good To Go and charities such as FareShare UK have shown how innovation in the food industry can align with compassion to create a positive social impact.

Charity Through Social Events

Food and drink also play a role in fundraising and community spirit. Coffee mornings, bake sales, sponsored fasts, and charity dinners have long been a way to bring people together while raising vital funds. Something as simple as sharing a slice of cake at a Macmillan Coffee Morning or organising a community supper can make a meaningful difference.

Supporting Sustainable Futures

Charity linked to food isn’t only about today’s hunger – it’s about tomorrow’s sustainability. Supporting charities that work with farmers, improve access to clean water, or promote fair trade ensures that communities can build resilient food systems for the future.

How You Can Take Part

This International Day of Charity, consider how you can use food and drink to spread kindness:

Donate to your local food bank.

Host a coffee morning or dinner with proceeds going to a good cause.

Support brands and initiatives that give back through their products.

Reduce your own food waste and encourage others to do the same.

Food nourishes the body, but when shared generously, it can also nourish the soul and strengthen communities. On this International Day of Charity, let’s remember the unique role food and drink can play in creating a fairer, kinder world.

Celebrating World Coconut Day: The Tree of Life

Every year on 2nd September, people around the world come together to celebrate World Coconut Day. 

This tropical delight is far more than just an exotic ingredient in curries or a refreshing drink on holiday—it’s often called the “Tree of Life” because of its incredible versatility and the many ways it supports communities, cultures, and cuisines.

Why Celebrate Coconuts?

Coconuts are truly a gift of nature. Every part of the coconut palm can be used—food, drink, oil, fibres, timber, and even the husk and shells find practical purposes. Here’s just a taste of its magic:

Nutrition and Wellness: Coconut water is a natural hydrator, packed with electrolytes. Coconut oil has long been used in cooking, skincare, and even traditional medicine.

Sustainable Living: The husk and coir are used in ropes, mats, and eco-friendly packaging. The leaves are woven into roofing or baskets, and the wood is used in furniture.

Cultural Importance: In many tropical countries, coconuts play a role in rituals, festivals, and hospitality. They symbolise life, fertility, and prosperity.

Coconut in the Kitchen

Coconuts bring an unmistakable flavour to dishes. Think fragrant curries enriched with coconut milk, sweet treats like coconut macaroons, or tropical cocktails such as piña coladas. Even in the UK, coconut is a star ingredient, whether sprinkled over a Bakewell tart, blended into smoothies, or stirred into porridge for a creamy twist.

Beyond the Plate

World Coconut Day is also about recognising the economic importance of coconuts. Millions of farmers, particularly across Asia and the Pacific, rely on coconut cultivation for their livelihoods. Supporting fair trade and sustainable coconut products helps these communities thrive while protecting the environment.

How to Join the Celebration

Here are some fun ways to celebrate World Coconut Day at home:

Cook a coconut-inspired meal—why not try a Thai curry, Sri Lankan sambal, or a Caribbean coconut cake?

Sip something tropical—blend a coconut smoothie or mix up a mocktail with coconut water.

Pamper yourself—use coconut oil as a natural moisturiser or hair mask.

Share the love—post your coconut creations on social media with the hashtag #WorldCoconutDay to spread the celebration.

A Toast to the Coconut

World Coconut Day is more than a nod to a tropical fruit—it’s a reminder of how nature provides, how culture connects, and how something so simple can be so powerful. 

Whether you enjoy it in food, drink, or daily life, take a moment today to appreciate the coconut: the fruit that truly lives up to its name as the Tree of Life.

Sourdough September: Celebrate Real Bread This Autumn

September marks the return of Sourdough September, a nationwide celebration of real bread led by the Real Bread Campaign. 

It’s the perfect excuse to slow down, enjoy food made with care, and maybe even roll up your sleeves and have a go at baking your own loaf.

Why sourdough deserves a spotlight

Unlike supermarket bread with long ingredient lists, true sourdough is made with just three essentials: flour, water, and salt. Instead of commercial yeast, it relies on a living “starter”—a simple mix of flour and water that naturally ferments with wild yeast and bacteria.

This patient, natural process creates bread that’s:

Rich in flavour – tangy, nutty, and deeply satisfying.

Better for digestion – the long fermentation can make it easier on the gut.

Free from unnecessary additives – no preservatives or artificial improvers.

Supportive of small businesses – many independent bakeries craft sourdough by hand.

How to join in with Sourdough September

There’s no wrong way to celebrate, but here are some ideas to inspire you:

Buy local: Pop into an independent bakery and try their signature sourdough loaf. Each bakery’s starter gives their bread a unique flavour.

Bake at home: Start your own sourdough journey—nurturing a starter is easier than it sounds, and baking bread is one of the most rewarding kitchen projects.

Share and inspire: Post your bakes, meals, or bakery finds on social media using #SourdoughSeptember.

Sourdough on the table: serving ideas

Sourdough is more than just bread for sandwiches—it’s a kitchen hero. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy it this September:

With autumn soups – a thick slice of sourdough toasted and rubbed with garlic pairs beautifully with pumpkin, butternut squash, or leek and potato soup.

Cheese and charcuterie boards – sourdough’s chewy tang is the perfect partner for creamy brie, sharp cheddar, or smoky cured meats.

Brunch favourite – top with smashed avocado, poached eggs, or grilled mushrooms for a warming weekend treat.

Rustic desserts – use day-old sourdough in bread-and-butter pudding with autumn berries for a twist on a classic.

A reason to celebrate

Sourdough September isn’t just about bread—it’s about valuing quality food, connecting with your local community, and rediscovering simple pleasures. Whether you support your neighbourhood bakery or bake your first loaf at home, you’ll be part of a movement celebrating food made with care and tradition.

Matthews Cotswold Flour asked brand ambassador Elaine Boddy from Foodbod Sourdough for her comments on sourdough. Elaine told That's Food a Drink: "Lets' address the faff about sourdough breads.

"Many people have over complicated the process of making sourdough, adding unnecessary steps, fear, stress and 'faff' to what in reality is a simple and enjoyable process. As a result people approach making sourdough with fear and low expectations, but it doesn't have to be that way.

"Which is where I come in - I take all of that faff and completely disregard it. You can take a huge percentage of what you've read about making sourdough and ignore it. You don't need a science degree, you don't need to pay a babysitter to look after your starter, you don't need to give up all of your free time, you don't need to get up in the middle of the night, you can easily and simply make sourdough in any kitchen, in any part of the world, with equipment you've probably already got, and without it invading your home life. 

"You have full control of the whole process and can produce this bread to fit the requirements of your tastes and home. Tap water, a clean jar with a fitted lid, and some good flour, and you're ready to go.

"So does Sourdough really deserve a whole month of celebration? My answer is, absolutely, yes! In fact why just a single month? For me personally, I feel that sourdough should be celebrated every week and every day. Give sourdough a go - if you haven't already - and use this month as a great excuse to get making or buying more! 

"So if you fancy making some of this fabulously tasty, healthy bread, in the simplest possible way, check out all of my information online, you can find me at foodbodsourdough.com, and even more information at Cotswoldflour.com, and full videos on both of our YouTube channels."

Website: https://foodbodsourdough.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elaine_foodbod 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/foodbodSourdough 

Website: https://cotswoldflour.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotswoldflour?igsh=YTgyMmx0a2dqdHht 

YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/@cotswoldflour 

So this September, tear into a crusty loaf, dunk it into a steaming bowl of soup, and join in the joy of real bread.

Lounge Bars vs Traditional Pubs: Which Is Best?

In Britain, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to where we enjoy a drink. 

From centuries-old pubs with roaring fires to sleek modern lounge bars serving cocktails with flair, the options are endless. 

But which is best? Let’s weigh up the pros and cons of each.

The Traditional Pub

There’s something timeless about the British pub. Step through the door and you’ll likely find a cosy interior, a warm welcome, and perhaps even a pub dog snoozing by the fire, or the pub cat on a windowsill.

Pros

Character and charm: Many pubs are steeped in history, with beams, fireplaces, and plenty of stories in the walls.

Community feel: Pubs are local hubs where conversations flow as easily as the beer.

Real ale and hearty food: You’ll often find a great range of cask ales, ciders, and classic dishes like pies, fish and chips, or Sunday roasts.

Traditions and events: From quiz nights to darts and live folk music, pubs are woven into the social fabric.

Affordability: Drinks and meals are generally cheaper than in trendier venues.

Cons

Décor: Some pubs can feel a little dated or worn.

Noise levels: They can get lively — great for atmosphere, not always ideal for a quiet drink.

Limited drinks range: While beer lovers rejoice, cocktail fans may leave disappointed.

The Lounge Bar

On the other end of the spectrum is the lounge bar: sleek, stylish, and designed for a more modern experience.

Pros

Stylish atmosphere: Think mood lighting, chic décor, and curated playlists.

Cocktails and premium spirits: Perfect for those who want a mojito, espresso martini, or something bespoke.

Comfortable seating: Sofas, booths, and terraces make them great for longer evenings.

Special occasions: Ideal for dates, celebrations, or a glamorous night out.

Cons

Cost: Drinks and nibbles often come with a premium price tag.

Exclusivity: Some bars can feel less welcoming, or even pretentious.

Crowds and noise: Especially on weekends, they can be packed and loud.

Less community feel: You’re less likely to strike up a chat with strangers than in your local pub.

So, Which Should You Choose?

It really depends on what you’re looking for:

For a casual pint and hearty food: The traditional pub wins every time.

For a stylish evening and cocktails: A lounge bar is your go-to.

For dates: Lounge bar if you want modern and romantic, pub if you want cosy and laid-back.

For groups: A pub is usually the easier and more affordable option.

The truth is, most of us enjoy both depending on the occasion. A pub might be the perfect setting for Sunday lunch, while a lounge bar works beautifully for a Friday night out. Luckily, in the UK we don’t really have to choose — we can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Why Shipyard American Pale Ale Deserves Your Attention

Discover why Shipyard American Pale Ale is a refreshing, balanced pint loved on both sides of the Atlantic.

Every now and then, a beer comes along that quietly earns a loyal following not through gimmicks, flashy labels, or marketing hype, but through sheer drinkability and craftsmanship. 

Shipyard American Pale Ale is one of those beers – a genuine crowd-pleaser that has earned its place in pubs, bars, restaurants and fridges across the UK. Along with Brewdog's Punk IPA, Shipyard is available on draught in every Wetherspoon pub in the country.

A Brew with Character

Brewed originally in Portland, Maine, Shipyard American Pale Ale carries all the hallmarks of a classic New England beer: bright, hoppy, and balanced. It offers a refreshing blend of citrus and floral notes, carried by a subtle malt backbone that ensures it doesn’t stray into being overly bitter or heavy. At around 4.5% ABV, it’s an easy-drinker that still packs enough flavour to satisfy seasoned craft beer fans.

Why It Stands Out

Approachable yet distinctive – Unlike some hop-heavy craft beers that can overwhelm, Shipyard American Pale Ale walks the line perfectly. It’s complex enough for aficionados, but never alienating for casual drinkers.

Great with food – Its crisp citrusy notes pair brilliantly with spicy dishes, burgers, and even fish and chips, making it a versatile choice for pub grub and dinner tables alike.

Sessionable – The moderate ABV means you can enjoy a few pints without feeling weighed down. It’s perfect for long evenings with friends or a sunny afternoon in the beer garden.

A Transatlantic Favourite

Although its roots are American, Shipyard has become firmly established in the UK. Brewed under licence here as well, it’s widely available on draught and in bottles, which has helped it find a devoted British following. It’s now a familiar sight in many pubs and supermarkets, sitting comfortably alongside the big names while offering something just that bit more exciting.

The Verdict

Shipyard American Pale Ale is proof that great beer doesn’t have to shout the loudest. It’s well-balanced, refreshing, and versatile – a reliable pint that somehow still feels like a treat. 

Whether you’re a die-hard craft beer fan or someone who simply enjoys a good, honest pint, this is one worth raising your glass to.

Could Vitamin D Help Slow Down the Ageing Clock?

The Latest: Telomeres, DNA, and Vitamin D

Recent high-quality research, particularly the VITAL trial, has brought fresh attention to vitamin D—most commonly known for its roles in bone health and immunity—as a potential defender against one of ageing’s most fundamental processes.

The VITAL sub-study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, tracked over 1,000 adults (aged 50+ for men, 55+ for women) for four years. Participants who took 2,000 IU of vitamin D₃ daily experienced significantly less telomere shortening—equivalent to delaying cellular ageing by up to three years—compared with placebo. 

The key driver? Likely vitamin D’s anti-inflammatory effects, reducing telomere erosion—telomeres being protective DNA caps that shorten as cells divide and age. 

Interestingly, omega-3 supplements, commonly paired with vitamin D, did not slow telomere shortening in this study. 

Beyond Telomeres: Epigenetic Clocks and Vitamin D

Another angle comes from smaller clinical trials exploring how vitamin D influences epigenetic ageing—the biological clock measured via DNA methylation patterns.

One such trial involving overweight and obese African American adults found that 4,000 IU/day of vitamin D₃ over just 16 weeks reduced epigenetic age (as measured by the Horvath clock) by about 1.85 years, while 2,000 IU/day was linked to a 1.90-year decrease with the Hannum clock. 

Further community-based findings (such as Reddit discussions on the DO-HEALTH trial) suggest that combinations of vitamin D, omega-3 and exercise can have additive effects, slightly slowing epigenetic ageing—though these findings are preliminary. 

Caveats & Expert Opinions

As promising as these findings are, experts urge caution:

Measurement methods like quantitative PCR for telomeres may not fully account for blood cell type differences; telomere length can appear longer if certain cell types are more prevalent. 

The benefits observed are biological markers, not direct proof of improved healthspan or longevity. Longer, more diverse trials are needed. 

Supplement safety matters: While 2,000 IU/day is considered well-tolerated for most, experts remind us that more is not always better—excess vitamin D can lead to toxicity. 

So, Should You Start Taking Vitamin D?

Here’s a balanced take:

For many, 600–800 IU/day aligns with UK and US health guidelines.

If your levels are low—especially if you're outside often, older, or have limited sun exposure—a 2,000 IU/day dose under medical advice may offer additional longevity benefits.

Importantly, supplements don’t replace a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet, regular exercise, moderate sun exposure, and smoke-free living remain the foundation of healthy ageing. 

Quick Summary

Claim What Evidence Shows

Telomere protection 2,000 IU/day slowed telomere shortening (~3 years), in VITAL trial.

Epigenetic ageing Higher doses (2–4,000 IU) showed ~2-year reductions in small trials.

Safe dosage? 2,000 IU/day appears safe; high doses risk toxicity.

Long-term health? Still unproven—more research is required.

Final Thoughts

The notion that a simple, affordable supplement like vitamin D could slow some cellular ageing processes is undeniably compelling. While these studies mark an exciting first step, the science hasn’t yet caught up to the hype: long-term health outcomes remain uncertain.

If you're considering vitamin D as part of a longevity strategy, discuss it with your GP or healthcare provider, perhaps after checking your current vitamin D status. In the meantime, keep embracing a wholesome lifestyle—because true youthful ageing is always a full-spectrum pursuit.

Gin: From Medicine to Mocktails – The Past, Present and Future of a Classic Spirit

Gin is one of the UK’s most beloved spirits, and its story is as rich and complex as the botanicals that flavour it. 

From its beginnings as a medicinal remedy to its reinvention as a trendy lifestyle drink—and now its rise in zero-alcohol form, gin has proven itself endlessly adaptable.

A Medicinal Beginning

Long before it was served with tonic and ice, gin was prized for its health benefits. Juniper berries were used for centuries as a herbal treatment for stomach and kidney issues. 

Dutch doctors in the 16th century distilled these into genever, a juniper-forward spirit that quickly found its way to England. Soldiers returning from the Netherlands spread its reputation, and soon “Dutch courage” became a household term.

From Craze to Classic

Gin took London by storm in the 18th century during the infamous Gin Craze, when cheap and unregulated gin flowed through the streets. It was accessible, potent, and, for many, dangerously addictive. Following stricter controls and new distilling technology, a more refined gin emerged in the 19th century: London Dry Gin, which remains a benchmark for quality to this day.

Today’s Gin Renaissance

Fast-forward to the 21st century, and gin is enjoying an incredible revival. Craft distillers have transformed the category with unusual botanicals like lavender, sea buckthorn, and even dandelion. Gin bars and tasting menus have turned the spirit into a culinary adventure, with cocktails such as the negroni, French 75, and elderflower gin fizz now staples of modern drinking culture.

The Zero-Alcohol Revolution

Not everyone wants the buzz that comes with their G&T, and this is where zero-alcohol gins step in. Brands like Clean Co, Seedlip, Pentire, and Warner’s 0% are paving the way for sophisticated non-alcoholic options that don’t compromise on flavour. Whether you’re cutting back, going sober, or just pacing yourself on a night out, alcohol-free gin ensures you can still enjoy the ritual of a cocktail glass in hand.

The Future of Gin

Looking ahead, gin’s future is bright:

Expect more unusual botanical blends inspired by global flavours.

Sustainability will play a huge role, with eco-friendly distilling and packaging.

Health-conscious consumers will continue driving demand for alcohol-free options.

One thing is certain—whether served strong, mixed, or alcohol-free, gin will remain a staple of British drinking culture for generations to come.

The History and Health Benefits of Ginger: From Ancient Medicine to Modern Superfood

Ginger is one of the world’s most versatile ingredients. Known today for its distinctive flavour in curries, teas, and bakes, ginger has a history stretching back over 5,000 years. 

Once treasured as a powerful natural medicine, it has evolved into a staple spice and modern superfood.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of ginger, its original use as a medicinal root, the proven health benefits of ginger today, and how it may shape the future of food and wellness.

The Ancient Origins of Ginger

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) was first cultivated in South and Southeast Asia. Ancient Indian and Chinese healers used it as a natural remedy for nausea, indigestion, arthritis, and colds. In Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, ginger was seen as a warming spice, believed to improve circulation and restore balance to the body.

By the first century AD, ginger had reached the Roman Empire, where it was used both in cooking and medicine. The Roman physician Dioscorides recommended it for digestive problems. After the empire fell, Arab traders reintroduced ginger to medieval Europe, where it became one of the most sought-after spices of the age.

Ginger in Medieval and Early Modern Europe

By the 14th century, ginger was so valuable that a pound of the spice cost as much as a sheep. In Britain, ginger became a favourite for both savoury and sweet dishes, and it gave rise to the first gingerbread recipes, often sold at fairs. Shropshire market town Market Drayton lays claim to be the home of gingerbread. https://discovermarketdrayton.co.uk

Apothecaries also prescribed ginger for ailments ranging from colds to motion sickness. Later, when European colonial trade expanded, plantations in Jamaica and the Caribbean turned ginger into an important global export.

Modern Science and the Health Benefits of Ginger

Today, science supports many of ginger’s traditional uses. The compounds gingerol and shogaol give ginger its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research shows ginger can:

Reduce nausea – effective against morning sickness and motion sickness

Aid digestion – easing bloating, cramps, and indigestion

Fight inflammation – helpful in arthritis and joint pain

Support immunity – soothing colds, sore throats, and flu

Balance blood sugar – with potential benefits for people with type 2 diabetes

This is why you’ll often find ginger in herbal teas, health drinks, and supplements.

The Future of Ginger: From Kitchen to Clinic

Looking ahead, ginger is set to become even more important. In the food world, it is central to functional foods and drinks: kombucha, wellness shots, protein snacks, and even ginger-infused craft beers.

In medicine, researchers are exploring ginger’s role in supporting heart health, improving digestion, and even as a complementary treatment in cancer care. Its natural healing potential means ginger could continue to bridge the gap between food and medicine.

Sustainability is also part of ginger’s future. With demand rising worldwide, farmers in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean are adopting organic and regenerative farming practices to ensure ginger remains available for generations to come.

Ginger: An Ancient Root with a Modern Future

From ancient Ayurvedic remedies to festive gingerbread, and from Roman medicine to ginger shots at your local café, this root has travelled across continents and centuries. Its story proves that some ingredients never lose their relevance — they simply evolve with the times.

So, whether you’re sipping a mug of ginger tea, adding fresh ginger to your stir-fry, or taking a supplement for joint support, you’re part of a tradition that goes back over 5,000 years — and one that continues to grow.

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Growing Wellbeing as Well as Food With Allotments

The National Allotment Society National Allotments Week 2025 (11–17 August), was praised for celebrating the powerful role that allotments play in supporting physical, mental, and nutritional wellbeing for people across the UK.

Timed with this year’s theme — “Allotments and Wellbeing” — the Society is releasing new national survey findings showing that allotments are much more than places to grow food. 

They are vital lifelines for community connection, exercise, and mental health support — especially in an era of rising stress, food insecurity, and shrinking green spaces.

Key findings include:

88.1% of plot holders said allotments benefit their physical health, scoring them 8 or above.

62.9% gave a perfect 10/10 for mental health benefits.

80.3% said their allotment helped them build social connections.

89.2% said they eat more fresh fruit and veg as a result of growing their own.

Mike Farrell, Chairman of the National Allotment Society, told That's Food and Drink: “An allotment isn’t just a piece of land — it’s a sanctuary, a source of pride, and a powerful tool for public health. We’re calling on policymakers, councils, and planners to recognise the value allotments bring to communities and ensure they are protected for future generations.”

The Society is also urging local authorities to invest in allotment infrastructure, improve access in underserved areas, and explore partnerships with schools, charities, and social prescribing networks.

Throughout National Allotments Week, events and member webinars will spotlight the benefits of allotment life — from growing your own to building new friendships.