Food and drink news for the discerning consumer
Tuesday, 30 September 2025
That's Health: What to Look for in a Good Toothpaste or Mouthwash
That's Health: What to Look for in a Good Toothpaste or Mouthwash: Before jumping into brands, here are some factors to consider: Fluoride content – fluoride helps with preventing cavities and strengthening ...
Monday, 29 September 2025
That's Christmas 365: Get Started Now: Making Personal Christmas Gifts w...
That's Christmas 365: Get Started Now: Making Personal Christmas Gifts w...: Christmas always seems to creep up faster than we expect. One moment it’s summer barbecues, a touch of sunburn and hosepipe bans... and the ...
Sunday, 28 September 2025
Wagyu Beef: From Steakhouse Staple to Burger Bar Buzz
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.
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).
YoYo Burger Bristol They offer wagyu among a selection of meats — much of the menu is about hearty burgers with quality.
IceBurg Preston Use “100% HMC certified Angus & Wagyu” for their wagyu-burger offering.
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.
Wildwood Kitchen have recently launched their waygu burger
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).
Farmison & Co — Yorkshire Wagyu Steak Burger, made from wagyu sourced from Warrendale.
Farm Shop (Somerset) — Wagyu X burgers (British wagyu-cross), dry-aged, good flavour.
Larder London — Full blood steak wagyu burgers (bulk packs or smaller).
Is the Rise of Pea Protein Linked to an Increase in Pea Allergies?
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.
Friday, 26 September 2025
NAD+ Supplements: Benefits, How to Take Them, and Are They 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
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
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
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
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
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.
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