Winners announced for the 2025 Speciality & Fine Food Fair Awards

The Black Farmer, Nourish Communities and Club Soda were among the winners of the 2025 Speciality & Fine Food Fair Awards, which took place on Ninth September at Olympia.

Launched to recognise excellence in the world of fine food & drink, the awards also recognise innovative new products, diversity champions and outstanding regional producers.

The winners were decided through a combination of public vote and through the deliberations of a line-up of leading industry judges.

Nicola Woods, Event Manager for Speciality & Fine Food Fair, told That's Food and Drink: “We were not only overwhelmed by the unprecedented number of entries but also by their exceptional quality. This truly highlights the incredible innovation happening within our industry.”

The winners were:

Large Independent Retailer of the Year, sponsored by WBC, in partnership with BIRA

Nourished Communities

Small Independent Retailer of the Year, sponsored by WBC, in partnership with BIRA

Club Soda

New Product of the Year – UK

Two Farmers 0.0% Apple Cider, Two Farmers

New Product of the Year – International

Kimchi Ketchup, Chimac

'Not Year on the Shelf' Award

Smoked Cornish Mackerel, Hevva!

Outstanding Regional Star

Joanna Morgan, Founder, Radnor Preserves

DEI Champion

Mex Ibrahim, Co-Founder, Women in the Food Industry

Outstanding Industry Champion

Wildfred Emmanuel-Jones MBE, Founder, The Black Farmer

Tea, Cakes and Creativity: Celebrating National Day of Arts in Care Homes

The National Day of Arts in Care Homes on September 24th is a wonderful opportunity to bring creativity, culture, and connection into residential and nursing homes across the UK. 

This annual celebration highlights the importance of the arts in supporting wellbeing, sparking joy, and nurturing community spirit among residents, staff, families and visitors.

And what better way to celebrate than with a classic British pairing—tea and cakes?

Why the Arts Matter in Care Homes

Art has the power to uplift, inspire, and connect us. For older people, especially those in care, creative activities such as painting, music, storytelling, and drama can boost self-esteem, improve memory, and encourage social interaction. The National Day of Arts in Care Homes reminds us that everyone deserves the chance to explore their creativity, no matter their age or circumstances.

Adding Tea and Cakes to the Celebration

A simple tea and cake gathering can transform an arts-based event into something even more special. Here are a few ideas:

Art Gallery Tea – Display residents’ artwork around the home and invite families to view the exhibition while enjoying a slice of sponge and a pot of tea.

Poetry and Pastries – Combine poetry readings with trays of scones, biscuits, or fairy cakes. Residents could recite their own poems or favourite classics.

Musical Memories with Afternoon Tea – Host a sing-along or live music session, paired with a traditional afternoon tea service featuring finger sandwiches, Victoria sponge, and shortbread.

Decorate Your Own Cupcake – A fun hands-on activity where residents can ice and decorate cupcakes with colourful toppings, connecting both art and food.

Creating a Warm and Inclusive Atmosphere

The act of sharing tea and cake creates a sense of comfort and community. It encourages conversations, laughter, and connection—something that goes hand in hand with creative expression. Involving local schools, volunteers, or community groups can make the event even richer and help build bridges between generations.

A Lasting Impact

The National Day of Arts in Care Homes isn’t just about one day. It’s about recognising the value of creativity in care settings every day of the year. Whether through painting, music, writing, or dance, these activities enrich lives. Adding tea and cake helps ensure the day feels like a true celebration—uplifting, memorable, and inclusive.

So, as you mark this year’s National Day of Arts in Care Homes, pop the kettle on, set out the teapots, and don’t forget the cakes. After all, art and afternoon tea might just be the perfect combination for joy and connection.

Celebrating the Autumnal Equinox with Seasonal Snacks, Foods and Drinks

The Autumnal Equinox marks the moment when day and night are perfectly balanced before we tip into the longer evenings of autumn.

It’s a time of harvest, reflection, and celebration of the changing season. 

Whether you’re planning a cosy gathering with friends, or simply want to bring the spirit of the equinox into your own home, the right snacks, foods and drinks can make the day truly special.

Celebrate with Seasonal Snacks

As the harvest comes in, the best flavours of the season are at their peak. Try preparing:

Roasted nuts and seeds – pumpkin seeds lightly salted or spiced with paprika are perfect finger food.

Apple slices with cinnamon sugar dip – a simple but delightful treat that captures autumn in a bite.

Cheese boards with figs and grapes – blending creamy cheeses with sweet seasonal fruits makes for a rich yet balanced nibble.

Equinox Feasting

The equinox is often associated with giving thanks for the harvest. This makes it the perfect time to cook hearty, seasonal dishes:

Pumpkin or butternut squash soup – velvety, warming and beautifully autumnal.

Root vegetable roasts – think parsnips, carrots and beetroot roasted with herbs.

Apple and pear crumble – a rustic dessert that’s as comforting as it is seasonal.

For those who enjoy breadmaking, try baking a harvest loaf decorated with plaited dough – a traditional nod to the bounty of the season.

Drinks to Warm and Comfort

No autumn celebration would be complete without drinks to match the mood:

Mulled apple cider – gently spiced with cloves, star anise and cinnamon, it’s perfect for cool evenings.

Pumpkin spiced lattes – whether homemade or from your favourite café, this has become an autumn staple.

Herbal teas – blends with chamomile, cinnamon, or ginger can be soothing and grounding.

For something indulgent, try a hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Creating Atmosphere

Celebrating the Autumnal Equinox isn’t just about food and drink—it’s also about setting the tone. Decorate your table with mini pumpkins, colourful leaves, and candles for a warm, rustic feel. Sharing stories or reflecting on the summer just gone can bring deeper meaning to your gathering.

The equinox is a beautiful reminder of balance, transition, and gratitude. By marking the day with seasonal snacks, comforting dishes, and warming drinks, you can bring nature’s rhythm into your home and welcome the new season in delicious style.

Raise Awareness on World Alzheimer’s Day with Social Events That Bring People Together

World Alzheimer’s Day, observed every year on 21st September, is an important opportunity to increase understanding of dementia, show support for those living with it, and raise much-needed funds for research and care. 

While the subject is a serious one, the ways in which we can raise awareness don’t have to be sombre. In fact, some of the most effective events are those that bring people together in a positive, sociable way.

From wine and cheese evenings to coffee mornings, tea parties, and cake sales, there are countless ways to blend awareness with community spirit. Here are a few ideas to get started.

Host a Wine and Cheese Evening

A relaxed wine and cheese evening can be a fantastic way to gather friends, neighbours, or colleagues. Guests can buy tickets, with proceeds going to an Alzheimer’s charity. You might also invite a guest speaker from a local support group to share insights, or simply provide leaflets and information cards so people can learn more while enjoying their evening.

Organise a Coffee, Tea, and Cake Morning

Classic coffee mornings are still one of the best ways to combine fundraising with socialising. Bake (or buy) cakes, set up a tea and coffee station, and invite people to donate for every slice or cup. To add an extra layer of awareness, you could set up a small display board with facts about dementia, its symptoms, and where to find support.

Afternoon Tea with a Purpose

Why not go a little more upmarket with a themed afternoon tea? Delicate sandwiches, scones, and a selection of teas make a lovely way to mark the day. Sell tickets in advance, provide Alzheimer’s UK charity boxes, and perhaps hold a raffle to raise even more.

Memory-Themed Events

Because dementia directly affects memory, you could design your event around celebrating memories. This could include:

A “Memory Wall” where guests write down a favourite memory on a card.

A photo corner where people bring old photos to share.

Storytelling sessions where participants recount meaningful or funny moments from their past.

These activities not only fit the theme but also spark conversation and reflection.

Partner with Local Businesses

Local cafés, bakeries, wine merchants, or community halls are often keen to support charity initiatives. A café might donate coffee beans, a bakery could provide cakes, or a wine shop might offer discounts on bottles for your event. In turn, you can promote their business through your event, making it a win-win.

Promote Your Event Online

Don’t forget to spread the word through social media. Create a simple event page on Facebook or Eventbrite, post on Instagram with a hashtag such as #WorldAlzheimersDay, and encourage your attendees to share photos and stories. Every share helps raise awareness beyond the event itself.

Why It Matters

Dementia is one of the biggest health challenges we face today. Hosting an event, no matter how big or small, helps break down stigma, spreads vital information, and shows support to those living with the condition and their families. And at the same time, it creates moments of joy, community, and connection—the very things we all value most.

Final Thoughts

World Alzheimer’s Day is not only about awareness but also about action. By hosting a social event—be it a wine and cheese party, a coffee morning, or a themed afternoon tea—you can help bring people together while making a tangible difference.

This year, why not invite your community to raise a glass, share a slice of cake, and join the conversation about dementia? Together, we can help shine a brighter light on Alzheimer’s and support the journey towards better care and, one day, a cure.

Wife Appreciation Day: How to Pamper and Feed Your Wife Good Things

Did you know that the third Sunday in September is Wife Appreciation Day, also known as National Wife Day? 

It’s the perfect chance to pause, step away from the daily grind, and show your partner just how much she means to you.

While grand gestures are lovely, sometimes the most memorable tokens of appreciation are thoughtful, personal, and, best of all, involve good food.

Why Celebrate Wife Appreciation Day?

Life can be hectic, and even the strongest partnerships can slip into routine. Wife Appreciation Day is a reminder to express gratitude and affection for the little (and big) things your wife does every day—whether it’s keeping the family running smoothly, being a sounding board, or simply being your favourite person to spend time with.

Pampering Ideas to Make Her Feel Cherished

You don’t need to whisk her away to a luxury spa (though she might not say no to that). Small acts of kindness and comfort can make a world of difference:

Breakfast in Bed – Start her day with fresh coffee or tea, warm pastries, and maybe her favourite fruit. Bonus points for serving it on a tray with a little flower in a vase.

Run Her a Bath – Create a spa-like atmosphere at home with candles, soothing music, and a selection of bath salts or oils.

Give Her a Break – Take over household tasks for the day. Whether it’s cooking, cleaning, or managing the school run, giving her some breathing space is one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give.

Quality Time – Switch off the phone and focus entirely on her. A long walk, a cuddle on the sofa, or a shared hobby can be just as pampering as physical treats.

Feeding Her Love Language

They say the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, and if your wife enjoys good food, then this is your chance to spoil her tastebuds.

Cook a Romantic Dinner – Plan a three-course meal with her favourite dishes. Think candlelight, a bottle of wine, and her favourite dessert to finish.

Afternoon Tea at Home – Put together dainty sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a pot of her favourite tea. A simple but elegant way to celebrate.

Sweet Surprises – Bake her a cake or pick up chocolates from a local artisan shop. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—just thoughtful.

Dining Out – If cooking isn’t your strength, book a table at a restaurant she loves, or one she’s always wanted to try.

Making the Day Extra Special

The key to Wife Appreciation Day isn’t necessarily extravagance, but attentiveness. Pay attention to the little things she loves—whether that’s a handwritten note tucked into her handbag, a playlist of songs that remind you of your relationship, or simply telling her how much she’s valued.

This Wife Appreciation Day, take the time to pamper, feed, and celebrate the incredible woman you married. After all, appreciation is the foundation of a happy marriage—and sometimes, it’s best expressed over a delicious meal and a whole lot of love.

B12 Awareness Day: Why We All Need to Pay Attention

Each year, B12 Awareness Day reminds us just how vital this nutrient is for our health and wellbeing. 

In the UK, thousands of people live with Vitamin B12 deficiency—many without even realising it. Left untreated, low levels of B12 can cause lasting damage, so raising awareness is crucial.

Why Vitamin B12 Matters

Vitamin B12 is essential for:

The nervous system – helping keep our brain and nerves healthy.

Red blood cell production – preventing anaemia and fatigue.

DNA synthesis – supporting cell growth and repair.

Mental health – with deficiency sometimes linked to low mood, memory issues, and confusion.

Without enough B12, daily life can quickly become a struggle, and in severe cases, irreversible nerve damage can occur.

Who’s at Risk in the UK?

According to the NHS, certain groups are more likely to be deficient:

Vegans and vegetarians – as B12 is mainly found in animal products. Many plant-based eaters rely on fortified foods (like breakfast cereals or plant milks) or supplements.

Older adults – absorption of B12 naturally decreases with age.

People with conditions such as pernicious anaemia, Crohn’s disease, or coeliac disease.

Those taking medications such as metformin (for type 2 diabetes) or proton pump inhibitors (used for indigestion and acid reflux).

Recognising the Symptoms

B12 deficiency symptoms can be wide-ranging and easy to miss. Watch for:

Extreme tiredness

Pins and needles (paraesthesia)

Mouth ulcers or a swollen tongue

Memory problems or confusion

Mood changes such as depression or irritability

Vision problems

If left untreated, these symptoms can worsen and cause permanent damage.

Getting Tested and Treated in the UK

If you think you might be deficient, book an appointment with your GP. They can arrange a blood test to check your B12 levels.

Treatment usually involves:

B12 tablets or sprays for mild deficiency or those at risk.

Hydroxocobalamin injections (available on the NHS) for people who cannot absorb B12 properly, such as those with pernicious anaemia.

With the right treatment, symptoms often improve quickly—but ongoing monitoring may be needed.

How to Support B12 Awareness Day

Share information with friends and family—many people don’t know how common B12 deficiency is.

If you follow a plant-based diet, make sure you’re getting enough B12 through fortified foods or supplements.

Support charities and groups that campaign for better recognition and treatment of B12 deficiency in the UK.

On B12 Awareness Day, let’s take the opportunity to talk openly about this hidden health issue, encourage others to seek help if they’re struggling with symptoms, and ensure B12 deficiency gets the recognition it deserves.

That's Christmas 365: Have a Cracking Christmas with Bonne Maman

That's Christmas 365: Have a Cracking Christmas with Bonne Maman: Surprise, surprise… revealing new, limited edition Christmas Crackers Surprise from Bonne Maman. A festive celebration of flavour and tradit...

That's Business: MEIKO Group Taps Fizyr and Yaskawa Europe For Auto...

That's Business: MEIKO Group Taps Fizyr and Yaskawa Europe For Auto...: Fizyr, providing the world’s most capable vision AI , and Yaskawa Europe , one of the world’s leading manufacturers in the fields of drive t...

Recipes with a Story – ChefDeik

Chef Deik

London Book Publisher proudly announces the release of Recipes with a Story – ChefDeik, a cookbook unlike any other. 

Written by Emilio Deik, known to his readers as ChefDeik, this work blends carefully tested recipes with the rich stories behind them, brought to life through exquisite hand-painted botanical illustrations.

A Cookbook Four Years in the Making

This project took more than four years to complete, not because of the recipes alone, but because of the artistry that accompanies them. 

Each of the 80+ dishes is paired with a unique story and a meticulously painted illustration, some of which took over eight weeks to create. The result is more than a cookbook: it is a work of art that can be read, cooked from, and admired.

More Than Recipes

Recipes with a Story rests on three pillars:

Delicious recipes – well-tested and written with clarity for home cooks.

Stories with flavour – cultural histories and humorous anecdotes that enrich each dish.

Botanical-style illustrations – replacing conventional food photography with artwork that captures the soul of the recipe.

The book also introduces a recipe-building matrix system that allows readers to create countless variations of classics such as quiche, risotto, pizza, and sandwiches with freedom and confidence.

Why It Matters

In an age of quick food videos and fleeting trends, this book brings back the depth of culinary heritage. It explores identity, cultural memory, and the traditions that shape the way we cook today. Early readers and local chefs have praised its authenticity, heartfelt tone, and artistic beauty.

About the Author

Emilio Deik is an avid amateur cook who turned his passion for food into an online brand and now a book. Having a business and innovation background, he infuses storytelling, flavour, and creativity in each project. He has appeared on radio, podcasts, and on social media and will be conducting launch events and online sessions to reach readers.

Availability

Recipes with a Story – ChefDeik has been published in 2025 by London Book Publisher. The book will be available worldwide through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and www.chefdeik.com.

Purchase the book, visit www.chefdeik.com, and follow @chefdeik on Instagram for updates, events, and behind-the-scenes stories.

Elevate Your Dairy Brand: How Small and Medium-Sized Dairies Can Partner with Wares of Knutsford for Custom Milk Bottles

In the competitive world of dairy, first impressions matter. From the shelf to the fridge at home, your milk bottles are often the first point of contact consumers have with your brand.

For small and medium-sized dairies looking to stand out, partnering with Wares of Knutsford for bespoke milk bottle design, printing, and production is an opportunity that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Why Custom Milk Bottles Matter

Your milk bottle isn’t just a container – it’s a statement of quality and brand identity. Custom bottles can help:

Enhance brand recognition – A unique design ensures your milk stands out on crowded shelves.

Convey your story – Your bottle can reflect the heritage of your dairy, local provenance, or ethical practices.

Increase customer loyalty – Consumers are more likely to remember and return to a product with appealing packaging.

How Wares of Knutsford Can Help

Wares of Knutsford specialises in helping dairies bring their packaging vision to life, from initial concept to the final product. Here’s how the process works:

Design Consultation

Wares’ expert team works with your dairy to understand your brand, values, and target audience. They help translate this into eye-catching bottle designs that reflect your unique identity.

Printing & Labelling Solutions

Whether you’re looking for full-colour printed bottles, embossed logos, or sustainable labelling options, Wares can provide solutions tailored to your needs and budget.

Production & Delivery

With experience producing high-quality bottles in various sizes and materials, Wares ensures your products are delivered efficiently and ready for retail or direct-to-consumer distribution.

Why Small and Medium Dairies Benefit

Partnering with a specialist like Wares of Knutsford gives smaller dairies access to the same professional packaging standards as large brands, without the overheads or complex supply chains. Whether you’re a local dairy looking to strengthen your presence in farmer’s markets or an online subscription milk service, high-quality custom bottles make your brand memorable and trusted.

Take the Next Step

Investing in custom milk bottles isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about positioning your dairy as a brand that cares about quality, presentation, and the customer experience. Reach out to Wares of Knutsford today to discuss how they can help your dairy create packaging that truly stands out.

https://www.waresofknutsford.co.uk