Wagyu Beef: From Steakhouse Staple to Burger Bar Buzz

Over the past few years, wagyu beef has moved from a rare, luxury steakhouse item to a full-blown foodie trend — showing up at burger joints, supermarkets, even in cultivated meat experiments. 

What’s driving this shift? And what does it mean for chefs, consumers, and the meat industry in the UK?

What Is Wagyu — And Why the Hype?

Marbling & flavour: Wagyu is famed for its high levels of intramuscular fat — the marbling that gives wagyu its melt-in-the-mouth texture and intense, rich flavour.

Origins vs cross-breeds: Not all “wagyu” is the same. There are full-blood / purebred animals (especially Japanese wagyu), cross-bred cattle, and cattle sired by wagyu bulls (British wagyu etc.). The differences show up in price, flavour, texture.

Grading & provenance: The marbling score (Beef Marbling Scale, BMS) is increasingly used by retailers in the UK to denote quality (e.g. a supermarket wagyu may have a minimum marbling score of 6 out of 9). 

Wagyu’s Growing Footprint in the UK

Several data points show that wagyu is no longer niche:

The number of British wagyu animals born in 2023 more than doubled compared to 2022 — showing both farmer interest and growing demand. 

Retailers are responding: Waitrose has introduced multiple wagyu beef lines (steaks, burgers, meatballs) under its “No.1” range, all with higher marbling scores than many competitors. 

Consumers are searching for wagyu burgers online at much higher rates (Waitrose reported searches up more than 100 %) year-on-year. 

From Steakhouses to Burgers: Where Wagyu Shows Up Now

The wagyu trend is no longer just about premium steaks in upscale restaurants. Here are the spaces where it’s making waves:

Upscale & premium restaurants / steakhouses

Traditional homes for wagyu: premium cuts, special tasting menus. Wagyu brings prestige, and is used to draw in diners looking for an elevated dining experience.

Boutique burger bars and independent butchers

Burgers are the obvious avenue for wagyu crossover — mixing wagyu fat or using patties made wholly from wagyu. Burger lovers get a “better burger” experience, with more flavour, juiciness. Examples include That Fat Cow’s 100 % dry-aged wagyu patties. 

thatfatcow.co.uk

Supermarkets / retail

Wagyu is becoming more accessible at home. Waitrose, for example, now stock wagyu burgers, steaks, meatballs. Consumers can get British wagyu with decent provenance. 

Sustainability & innovation: cultivated meat

UK companies are exploring cultured / cultivated wagyu burgers. Finnebrogue and Ivy Farm Technologies are collaborating to produce cultivated wagyu products, aiming for reduced environmental impact while meeting consumer demand. 

Opportunities & Challenges

Opportunities

Premium at scale: As domestic production ramps up, there’s scope to bring wagyu into more mainstream outlets without the astronomical prices.

Provenance, welfare, traceability: These are strong selling points. Consumers increasingly care where their meat comes from, how animals are raised. British wagyu, or cross-bred cattle reared under higher welfare conditions, have an advantage.

Innovation: Cultivated meat, fat-blends, new cuts—all open up creative paths.

Challenges

Cost: Wagyu is expensive to rear. Feeding, genetics, grading make it inherently costlier.

Consumer education: Not everyone understands the differences (pure vs crossbreed, marbling, cut). There’s potential for marketing to mislead.

Balancing fat and flavour: Because wagyu’s richness comes from fat, chefs and producers need to use it in ways that highlight flavour without overwhelming. Over-cooking can sabotage the texture.

Sustainability & environmental footprint: Meat in general has environmental costs; wagyu’s higher feed/fattening requirements raise concerns. Cultivated / cell-based options are one route, but regulatory, scale, cost hurdles remain.

What It Means for Burgers

Burgers are an interesting “middle ground” in this trend:

They make wagyu more approachable — less of a splurge than a full wagyu ribeye.

They allow for innovation: blends (wagyu + other beef), fat content tweaks, toppings and condiments that complement the wagyu richness.

Good burger authenticity depends heavily on quality of bun, seasoning, cooking method (don’t over-press; get a good sear; let fat render).

But some critics argue that grinding wagyu into patties dilutes the uniqueness — much of what makes wagyu special is the unbroken marbling in whole cuts. So there’s a tension: is a wagyu burger just “wagyu hype” or genuinely a superior taste experience?

Where Wagyu Is Heading Next

Looking forward, here are some likely directions:

More accessible price points for wagyu beef products — as more British production, better supply chains, economies of scale kick in.

Regulatory frameworks for cultivated meat that allow cultured wagyu to enter the market more broadly.

Clearer labelling and grading becoming standard: marbling score, breed, provenance, welfare.

Hybrid products (blends), premium burger joints offering wagyu classes / experiences.

Restaurants & shops capitalising on “wagyu nights” / specials as marketing draws.

Conclusion

Wagyu beef in the UK has shifted from exotic to aspirational to increasingly accessible. What started as luxury steaks are now burger patties, supermarket meatball lines, and the subject of experiments in sustainable meat innovation. 

For consumers, that means more choices; for producers and chefs, more creative possibilities — but also the need to maintain quality, transparency, and value.

If you're a burger lover, a wagyu-fan in the making, or someone curious about meat trends, this is one to watch (and taste).

Where to Try Wagyu Burgers in the UK

SMSH BNSoho, London Smash burgers using wagyu patties (double patties, good bun, full flavour). 

https://www.smsh-bn.com/

YoYo Burger Bristol They offer wagyu among a selection of meats — much of the menu is about hearty burgers with quality. 

yoyoburger.com

IceBurg Preston Use “100% HMC certified Angus & Wagyu” for their wagyu-burger offering. 

https://iceburg.co.uk/

Burger King UK Nationwide Recently launched “The Wagyu” burger: 100% British wagyu beef, flame-grilled, premium style. So wagyu is now entering fast food in a big way. 

TGI Fridays UK Multiple Locations Their “Wagyu Burger” offers a luxury take: 6oz wagyu patty, quality toppings etc. Great for something more casual but still premium. 

tgifridays.co.uk

Wildwood Kitchen have recently launched their waygu burger

wildwoodrestaurants.co.uk

Shops & Kits to Get Wagyu Burgers at Home

If you prefer cooking your own:

London Fine Foods — Wagyu beef burger packs. 

https://www.londonfinefoods.co.uk/

Finnebrogue — Grass-fed wagyu burgers in major supermarkets (Sainsbury’s, Ocado, Costco). 

https://www.finnebrogue.com/

Farmison & Co — Yorkshire Wagyu Steak Burger, made from wagyu sourced from Warrendale. 

https://www.farmison.com/

Farm Shop (Somerset) — Wagyu X burgers (British wagyu-cross), dry-aged, good flavour. 

https://farmshop.co.uk/

Larder London — Full blood steak wagyu burgers (bulk packs or smaller). 

https://larderlondon.com/

Is the Rise of Pea Protein Linked to an Increase in Pea Allergies?

Pea protein has become one of the fastest-growing plant-based ingredients in recent years. It’s found in vegan burgers, dairy-free milks, protein powders, baked goods, and even snacks. 

Touted as a sustainable and allergen-friendly alternative to soy and dairy, it has quickly become a staple in the food and drink industry.

But as its use grows, so do concerns. Some allergists and parents are warning that increased consumption of pea protein may be contributing to a rise in pea allergies. 

So, is there really a link between pea protein and food allergy risk?

Why Pea Protein Is So Popular

Pea protein (usually made from yellow split peas) is:

High in protein and amino acids

Vegan, dairy-free, and soy-free

Gluten-free

More sustainable to grow than many other protein sources

These qualities make it attractive not just to health-conscious consumers, but also to food brands developing plant-based alternatives.

Are Pea Allergies Increasing?

Historically, pea allergies have been rare. However, as exposure rises through processed foods, specialists are reporting more cases being diagnosed – particularly in children.

This reflects a common pattern: the more frequently a food is introduced into the diet, the greater the risk of allergy developing in susceptible people.

The Peanut Connection

Peas and peanuts both belong to the legume family, and research shows they share certain proteins. This means:

Cross-reactivity is possible – people with peanut allergies may also react to peas, and vice versa.

Food labels aren’t always clear. While peanuts are a major allergen under UK and EU law, pea protein is not – making it harder for allergy sufferers to avoid.

Some allergy charities are calling for clearer labelling and regulation around pea protein as it becomes more widely used.

What Experts Are Observing

Allergy clinics in the UK and Europe are seeing more pea protein-related cases.

Severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported.

With pea protein now common in everything from crisps to milk alternatives, it may be becoming unavoidable in modern diets.

Still, researchers stress that more studies are needed before concluding that pea protein itself is directly driving an allergy surge.

What Consumers Should Do

If you have a known peanut or legume allergy, or suspect a sensitivity:

Read ingredient labels carefully – look for “pea protein isolate”, “pea flour”, or “hydrolysed pea protein”.

Ask brands and restaurants about hidden pea protein in plant-based foods.

Seek advice from an allergist if you notice symptoms after eating pea-containing products.

The Takeaway

Pea protein has huge benefits for sustainability and nutrition, but its rapid adoption could be fuelling a quiet rise in allergies. Whether or not it becomes a recognised “major allergen” in the UK will depend on further research – but for now, awareness is key.

As plant-based eating becomes mainstream, manufacturers, regulators, and consumers may need to strike a balance between embracing innovation and protecting those at risk.

NAD+ Supplements: Benefits, How to Take Them, and Are They Safe?

Discover the benefits of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) supplements. Learn what NAD+ is, how it supports energy and ageing, the best ways to take it, and whether it’s safe.

What is Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+)?

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, better known as NAD+, is a vital coenzyme found in every cell of the body. It helps convert food into energy, supports healthy cell function, and plays a key role in DNA repair and brain health.

Unfortunately, NAD+ levels decline with age, which may contribute to fatigue, slower metabolism, and the visible signs of ageing. That’s why NAD+ supplementation is growing in popularity as a way to support energy, focus, and healthy ageing.

What Are the Benefits of NAD+ Supplements?

NAD+ supports many essential processes in the body, including:

Energy Production – Converts carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into cellular energy (ATP).

DNA Repair – Activates sirtuins and PARPs, enzymes that repair DNA damage.

Brain Health – May help protect against age-related cognitive decline.

Cell Protection – Reduces oxidative stress and supports the immune system.

This is why NAD+ supplements are often promoted for:

Anti-ageing support

Increased energy and focus

Muscle recovery and endurance

Long-term cellular health

How Do You Take NAD+?

You can’t take NAD+ directly as it breaks down too quickly in the body. Instead, supplements provide precursors that are converted into NAD+:

NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)

NR (Nicotinamide Riboside)

Both are widely available as capsules or powders. Some wellness clinics also offer NAD+ IV drips, but these are more expensive and invasive.

Typical dosage: 250mg–1000mg daily, usually taken in the morning.

Do NAD+ Supplements Really Work?

The science is still developing, but results are encouraging:

Early human studies suggest possible benefits for energy metabolism, exercise endurance, and mental clarity.

Many users report increased focus, better sleep, and reduced fatigue, though experiences vary.

At present, there’s no definitive proof that NAD+ supplements reverse ageing, but research is moving in a promising direction.

Are NAD+ Supplements Safe?

So far, NMN and NR supplements appear to be safe and well tolerated in healthy adults. Reported side effects are mild and uncommon, including:

Nausea or digestive upset

Headaches

Fatigue in some cases

Because long-term studies are limited, safety over many years is still unknown. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or managing a health condition, speak to your GP before starting NAD+ supplements.Should You Take NAD+?

NAD+ is one of the most exciting areas of longevity research, but supplements are not a magic bullet. They may provide extra support for energy and healthy ageing, but they should be used alongside a healthy lifestyle that includes:

A balanced diet

Regular physical activity

Quality sleep

Stress management

Bottom line: NAD+ supplements (NMN or NR) are safe for most people and may help boost energy and support long-term health. They’re worth considering if you’re curious about anti-ageing nutrition—but keep expectations realistic, as research is ongoing.

If you would like to buy NAD+ supplements please visit https://amzn.to/3KItnXx

Celebrating World Vegetarian Day: A Taste of Compassion and Health

Every year, on 1st October, people around the world mark World Vegetarian Day, a day dedicated to promoting the benefits of vegetarianism—for our health, the environment, and the well-being of animals. 

Whether you’re a committed vegetarian or just curious about plant-based eating, this day offers a perfect opportunity to explore delicious, wholesome alternatives to meat and celebrate a lifestyle rooted in compassion.

The Origins of World Vegetarian Day

World Vegetarian Day was established in 1977 by the North American Vegetarian Society and is now recognised globally, kicking off Vegetarian Awareness Month. The aim is to raise awareness about the nutritional, ethical, and ecological advantages of vegetarian diets.

Why Go Vegetarian (Even Just for a Day)

Health Benefits: Research shows that plant-based diets can reduce the risk of heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, and obesity. Filling your plate with colourful vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes provides essential nutrients while keeping your meals low in saturated fat.

Environmental Impact: Reducing meat consumption can significantly lower your carbon footprint. Livestock farming is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water use. Choosing plant-based meals supports a more sustainable planet.

Animal Welfare: For many, vegetarianism is a compassionate choice. By choosing plant-based foods, we reduce the demand for factory-farmed meat, promoting kinder treatment of animals.

How to Celebrate World Vegetarian Day

1. Try a Meat-Free Menu

Experiment with vegetarian meals at home or visit a local vegetarian-friendly restaurant. In the UK, many supermarkets now offer a wide range of plant-based ready meals, meat alternatives, and vegan cheeses.

2. Host a Vegetarian Gathering

Turn the occasion into a social event. A vegetarian coffee morning, brunch, or dinner party can introduce friends and family to the joys of plant-based cooking. Share recipes and swap tips for cooking without meat.

3. Explore Global Flavours

Vegetarian cuisine is as diverse as the world itself. From Indian dal and samosas to Mediterranean mezze or Thai green curry, there’s no shortage of inspiration. Use World Vegetarian Day to try a new recipe from another culture.

4. Learn and Share

Educate yourself about the benefits of vegetarian diets and share your knowledge on social media or in your community. Even small changes, like reducing meat consumption once or twice a week, can make a big difference.

Delicious Ideas to Get Started

Chickpea and Spinach Curry – hearty, protein-packed, and bursting with flavour.

Mushroom and Walnut Wellington – perfect for a special occasion.

Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad – quick, healthy, and colourful.

Sweet Potato and Lentil Soup – warming and comforting on autumn evenings.

Make It a Habit, Not Just a Day

World Vegetarian Day is more than a single celebration. It’s a chance to rethink our food choices and embrace a lifestyle that is healthier for us and the planet. Whether you go fully vegetarian or simply explore new plant-based meals, every step counts.

Hackstons Unveils Unique Autumn Season of World-Class Whisky & Wine Tastings

Hackstons Knightsbridge, the luxury whisky and fine wine specialist, has unveiled its most ambitious Autumn programme yet.

Today they unveil a season of curated tastings and immersive cultural experiences designed to position the flagship store as one of London’s most exclusive destinations this autumn.

Timed to coincide with the capital’s peak cultural season from Frieze London and the autumn art fairs to London Fashion Week Hackstons has created an inviting atmosphere as the autumn days grow colder.

Since opening a little over a year ago, Hackstons has become a gathering place for collectors, connoisseurs, and tastemakers. 

Now, with a calendar of events that merges rarity, artistry, and indulgence, the Knightsbridge landmark cements itself firmly within London’s luxury landscape.

The programme unfolds as a series of high-concept experiences. Guests are invited to step behind the curtain of one of Japan’s most iconic blends with a deconstruction of Hibiki; to challenge tradition in a bold Grand Cru, Drive Thru’ that pairs Bordeaux first growths and legendary vintages with fast food indulgence; and to savour liquid history through Diageo’s fabled Prima & Ultima collection - a portfolio valued at over £15,000, offered in an intimate pour seldom experienced beyond the walls of collectors’ cellars.

As the season deepens, the narrative shifts into fireside comfort with explorations of sherry and port that trace centuries of Iberian winemaking heritage.

Johnnie Walker Blue is reimagined through rare ghost distillery expressions - long closed but brought back to life in exquisite blends rarely poured outside the inner circle of whisky collectors.

And in one of the most innovative events of the calendar, Fettercairn stages a multi-sensory journey where guests are blindfolded, immersed in curated soundscapes, and even invited to paint their own tasting notes in watercolour, before leaving with a personalised collectible as a lasting memento.

Completing the season is Liquid Masterpieces, a concept that fuses the visual and the gustatory, pairing extraordinary drinks with inspiration from the world’s most celebrated artists, inviting guests to sip, savour, and see flavour as art.

Extending beyond the store itself, Hackstons has partnered with The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park for an exclusive corkage collaboration. From 22 September to 14 November, guests may bring their Hackstons purchases into one of Knightsbridge’s most acclaimed Japanese dining destinations, enjoying their bottles in a setting as refined as the spirits themselves.

Hackstons Knightsbridge was always designed to be more than a store, it’s a destination,” said Alphie Valentine, Co-Founder and Director told That's Food and Drink.

“This autumn’s programme shows the breadth of what Hackstons stands for, from pouring rare whiskies valued at £15,000 to pairing Grand Cru with fries, we’re challenging expectations while staying true to our mission of making fine and rare spirits accessible, exciting, and memorable. To turn one and already be recognised as one of the UK’s most promising newcomers proves that Hackstons is creating something truly special.”

Hackstons’ autumn events are fully ticketed, with prices beginning at £75. Attendance is limited to preserve exclusivity and intimacy. For the full programme or to secure a place, visit hackstons.com/events.

Celebrate World Animal Day with Coffee, Cake, and Charity

Having written about the patron saint of animals, St Francis of Assisi, we now turn our attention to World Animal Day.

What is it? World Animal Day, observed every year on 4th October, is a chance to show our appreciation for animals and support the organisations that work tirelessly to protect them. 

Whether you’re a pet lover, wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, there are fun and delicious ways to mark the occasion—all while raising funds for a worthy cause.

Host a Coffee and Cake Fundraiser

One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to celebrate World Animal Day is with a coffee and cake event. Invite friends, family, or colleagues to your home, workplace, or local community centre for a morning or afternoon gathering.

Set up a donation table: Ask guests to contribute a small donation per cup of coffee or slice of cake.

Bake or buy themed treats: Animal-shaped cookies, paw-print cupcakes, or chocolate “bones” are sure to delight.

Add a little extra: Include a raffle or a small auction with donated items from local businesses.

A simple coffee and cake event can not only raise money for animal charities but also spread awareness about their work.

Indulge in a Wine and Cheese Evening

For those who prefer something a little more sophisticated, consider hosting a wine and cheese evening. This is a great way to attract adult supporters while creating a cosy, social atmosphere.

Pairings that impress: Choose cheeses from around the world and pair them with complementary wines.

Ticketed entry or donations: Charge a modest entry fee, or ask guests to donate per glass.

Incorporate awareness: Include a short presentation or videos about the animal causes you’re supporting.

Wine and cheese parties combine indulgence with purpose, making it easier for guests to relax, enjoy themselves, and contribute to animal welfare.

Get Creative with Fundraising

There are endless ways to make your World Animal Day celebration memorable:

Hold a pet photo contest or display photos of animals from your local shelter.

Offer DIY crafts or animal-themed merchandise for sale.

Collaborate with local cafés or wine bars to host community fundraisers.

No matter the format, the key is to combine social fun with raising awareness and funds for animals in need.

Make a Difference Year-Round

While World Animal Day is a great focal point, the support doesn’t have to stop there. Consider setting up regular coffee mornings or wine and cheese evenings throughout the year to continue supporting your favourite animal charities.

By celebrating World Animal Day with friends, food, and drinks, you’re not just having fun—you’re making a real difference in the lives of animals who need it most.

Celebrating the Feast of St Francis of Assisi with Food, Drink, and Care for Animals

The Feast of St Francis of Assisi (4 October) is a day to honour the beloved patron saint of animals, the environment, and peace. 

Across the world, churches bless animals and communities come together to celebrate his message of kindness, simplicity, and respect for creation. 

But how can you mark the occasion at home? A wonderful way is through meaningful food and drink – and by taking action to support animals.

Food and Drink to Honour St Francis

St Francis lived a life of simplicity, humility, and closeness to nature. His meals were modest, plant-based, and centred around what the earth readily gave. To celebrate, you might create a table inspired by his values:

Rustic Italian Dishes: St Francis was born in Umbria, so Umbrian-inspired dishes such as farro soup, bruschetta with olive oil and herbs, or pasta e fagioli (pasta and beans) are fitting choices.

Seasonal Autumn Produce: Highlight pumpkins, squashes, root vegetables, and apples – foods harvested at this time of year. A simple roasted vegetable traybake or apple tart can reflect the abundance of nature.

Bread and Olive Oil: Sharing freshly baked bread dipped in olive oil connects directly to the humble meals of St Francis’s time.

Drinks of the Earth: Opt for local wines from Umbria or Tuscany, or non-alcoholic alternatives such as sparkling apple juice, herbal teas, or simple infused waters with fresh herbs.

Keeping the meal plant-based is a meaningful way to respect animals in the spirit of St Francis.

Working for Animals on St Francis’s Day

St Francis’s love for creatures of every kind makes this feast the perfect time to take action for animals:

Support Animal Charities: Donate money, food, or blankets to local shelters, rescue centres, or sanctuaries.

Volunteer: Offer your time at an animal rescue centre or wildlife trust. Even walking dogs for a shelter can make a difference.

Care for Wildlife at Home: Put out bird feeders, create a bug hotel, or plant pollinator-friendly flowers in your garden or community space.

Adopt, Don’t Shop: If you’re considering a pet, this is the perfect reminder to adopt from a rescue centre.

Spread Awareness: Share St Francis’s message of kindness towards animals on social media, encouraging others to think compassionately about their relationship with animals.

A Celebration of Peace and Compassion

The Feast of St Francis is not just about celebrating animals but also about embracing a lifestyle of peace, compassion, and stewardship of the earth. A shared meal inspired by the humble foods of his region, paired with tangible actions to help animals, creates a meaningful tribute to this timeless saint.

How to Mark the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste – And Keep the Effort Going Year-Round

Every year on 29 September, the world comes together to mark the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste. 

The day, designated by the United Nations, highlights a pressing issue: globally, an estimated one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted. 

That’s not just a tragic waste of resources – it has serious environmental, social, and economic consequences.

But the day isn’t just about awareness. It’s about action. Here’s how you can observe the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste – and, more importantly, keep that momentum going all year long.

Why It Matters

Food waste doesn’t just hurt our wallets – it also fuels climate change. When food is thrown away, the energy, water, and labour that went into producing it are wasted too. 

In landfill, food waste breaks down and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Meanwhile, millions around the world still face food insecurity. Tackling food loss and waste is a way of addressing these challenges together.

Ways to Mark the Day

1. Take Stock of Your Kitchen

On 29 September, start with a simple action: open your pantry, fridge, freezer, and cupboards. Identify items close to their use-by dates and plan meals around them. It’s a practical way to honour the day and prevent food from going in the bin.

2. Host a “Waste-Free” Meal

Invite family or friends for a meal made entirely from what you already have at home. It sparks conversation about reducing waste while also proving that creative cooking can be fun (and delicious).

3. Share the Message

Use your voice on social media to share tips, recipes, and facts about food waste. The more people know, the more likely they are to change their habits.

4. Support Local Food Projects

Many UK communities run food banks, community fridges, or redistribution projects. Donating surplus food or volunteering your time can make an immediate impact.

Keeping the Effort Year-Round

Awareness days are a great spark, but the real change comes from building new habits. Here are some year-round practices:

Plan Your Meals: Writing a weekly meal plan reduces impulse purchases and ensures you only buy what you’ll use.

Understand Labels: Learn the difference between “use by” (safety) and “best before” (quality). Many foods are perfectly fine past their best before date.

Store Food Smartly: Keep bread in the freezer, revive wilted veg in water, and store apples away from bananas to prevent early ripening.

Love Leftovers: Repurpose last night’s dinner into tomorrow’s lunch. Soup, stir-fries, and frittatas are great for using up odds and ends.

Compost: If something really can’t be eaten, composting keeps it out of landfill and nourishes the soil.

Champion Businesses Fighting Waste: Support cafés and restaurants that donate surplus or apps like Too Good To Go, which help reduce waste at the retail level.

Final Food Waste Thoughts

The International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste is a valuable reminder – but the goal is to turn awareness into lasting action. By making small changes at home and supporting wider initiatives, each of us can play a part in reducing waste, saving money, and protecting the planet.

This 29 September, take one step. Then keep stepping, all year long.

Thomas Müller Becomes the New Brand Ambassador for ERDINGER Weissbräu

When two Bavarian icons come together, goosebumps are guaranteed, and this will be the case when football star Thomas Müller becomes the new brand ambassador for the private brewery ERDINGER Weissbräu on 1st January 2026. 

Hailing from the Alpine foothills, south of Munich, Müller embodies the friendly and no-nonsense approach of the unmistakable Bavarian way of life like no other. These are values that fit perfectly with ERDINGER: inspiring people and spreading the traditional joie de vivre the region is known for.

"With Thomas Müller, we have gained not only an exceptional athlete, but a true legend. He stands for authenticity, down-to-earthness, team spirit and passion. These are precisely the values that have always characterised ERDINGER. Together, we will launch unforgettable initiatives and create powerful, emotional campaigns," Dr. Stefan Kreisz, spokesperson for the management of ERDINGER Weissbräu, to That's Food and Drink.

Thomas Müller is also looking forward to the partnership with great anticipation: “For me, ERDINGER is more than just a brewery. It is a Bavarian cultural asset, representing the pure joy of life and is a piece of home. I am really looking forward to this partnership and am proud to join the ranks of well-known ERDINGER advertising campaigns.”

Müller's sporting career is as impressive as it is unique: a 2014 World Cup winner, he has achieved numerous German championships with FC Bayern Munich, personal awards, and top rankings in the FIFA Ballon d'Or. 

He has long since reached legendary status in German football and is now causing great excitement at his new club, the Vancouver Whitecaps. Against the backdrop of the 2026 World Cup in North America, his international commitment gives ERDINGER Weissbräu's global presence a new boost, especially in Canada and the USA. 

But fans in other countries also have something to look forward to with planned campaigns expected to attract attention in restaurants, off-licences and on social media – naturally with the typical blend of humour and tongue-in-cheek wit that connects Thomas Müller and ERDINGER.

The appointment of Müller as ambassador follows the successful partnership the brand achieved with Jürgen Klopp which immortalised the phrases 'Never Skim an ERDINGER' and 'Don't forget the Best Bit'.

Celebrate World Heart Day with Coffee Mornings and Cheese & Wine Parties

Every year on 29th September, the world unites for World Heart Day – a global initiative created to raise awareness of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which remains the leading cause of death worldwide. 

It’s a day to take stock of our own heart health, but also an opportunity to come together, raise funds, and support those affected by heart conditions.

This year, why not do something a little different? Hosting a coffee morning or a cheese and wine party is a fun, social, and effective way to raise money for charities working tirelessly to prevent, treat, and research heart disease.

Coffee Mornings with Heart

Coffee mornings are already a well-loved tradition in the UK, often associated with community, comfort, and conversation. On World Heart Day, you can give this tradition extra meaning by turning it into a fundraiser.

Bake for the cause: Heart-healthy muffins, fruit loaves, or reduced-sugar cakes can be the star of the table.

Donation pot: Ask guests to contribute a donation for their tea, coffee, and cake.

Healthy twist: Offer herbal teas and non-dairy milks alongside traditional brews.

A coffee morning isn’t just about the funds—it’s also a chance to share information about heart health and encourage friends and neighbours to look after theirs.

Cheese and Wine for Charity

If you’d prefer something a little more grown-up and indulgent, a cheese and wine evening can also raise vital funds while giving guests a night to remember.

Curate a cheeseboard: Include a mix of British cheeses and lighter, lower-fat options for balance.

Pair with heart-friendly reds: Red wine, when enjoyed responsibly, has long been linked with heart health thanks to its antioxidants. Offer alcohol-free wines too.

Entry fee for charity: Instead of asking guests to bring a bottle, set a suggested donation to cover the evening.

A cheese and wine party doesn’t need to be elaborate – a few platters, some glasses, and good company are enough to create a special atmosphere.

Supporting the Cause

Funds raised through your event can be donated to organisations such as the British Heart Foundation, which funds life-saving research, campaigns for improved care, and supports people living with heart and circulatory diseases.

Even a modest amount raised through a neighbourhood gathering can contribute to groundbreaking work. Beyond the money, your event also helps spread awareness, reminding people to check their blood pressure, eat well, exercise, and take care of their hearts.

Make It Personal

If you or someone close to you has been affected by heart disease, sharing that story at your event can make it even more meaningful. Guests often give more generously when they understand the personal connection.

Conclusion

World Heart Day is a time to come together—not only to raise awareness of heart health but also to show compassion, care, and community spirit. Whether it’s a warm and welcoming coffee morning or a lively cheese and wine night, your event can make a real difference in the fight against heart disease.

So, pop the kettle on or uncork that bottle, and let’s raise both awareness and funds for healthier hearts everywhere.