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Sunday, 23 November 2025
That's Christmas 365: Cost-Effective Ways to Stay Warm Over Christmas
That's Christmas 365: Healthy Snacks to Keep on Hand This Christmas
Can Cumin Seeds Help Lower Cholesterol? What the Research Suggests
In particular, some reports suggest cumin may help to lower cholesterol levels. But how strong is the evidence, and is it worth adding to your daily routine?
Here’s a closer look.
Why Cumin Seeds Are Gaining Attention
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) is rich in antioxidants and plant compounds that may support metabolic health.
It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, especially in South Asia and the Middle East, and modern research has begun exploring its possible effects on:
Digestion
Blood sugar regulation
Inflammation
Cholesterol levels
The last point is where things get especially interesting.
What the Studies Say About Cholesterol
Several small-scale studies have reported that cumin may help reduce both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (the so-called “bad” type), while sometimes increasing HDL cholesterol (the “good” type).
Findings from these reports include:
1. Improved LDL Levels
Some trials found that participants taking cumin supplements or cumin powder experienced noticeable reductions in LDL cholesterol after several weeks.
2. Possible Boost to HDL Levels
In a few studies, cumin appeared to help raise HDL cholesterol slightly—an effect that supports better long-term heart health.
3. Antioxidant Activity
Researchers often link cumin’s potential benefits to its antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may protect cells from oxidative stress. This protection may contribute to healthier cholesterol profiles.
That said, it’s important to keep expectations realistic. Most studies so far have been relatively small, often involving supplements rather than culinary quantities. More research is still needed before cumin can be recommended as a definitive treatment.
How to Include Cumin in Your Diet
Even though the science is still developing, adding cumin to your meals is an easy, affordable way to increase flavour while supporting a balanced diet. You can enjoy it:
Sprinkled into soups or stews
Mixed into yoghurt as a savoury dip
Toasted and added to rice or roasted vegetables
Used in marinades for chicken or lamb
Brewed as a warm cumin tea
Cumin supplements also exist, but it’s wise to speak to a GP or pharmacist before taking any new supplement—especially if you’re on medication for cholesterol or blood pressure.
Cumin Is Helpful, Not a Miracle Cure
Cumin seeds can play a small supporting role in a heart-healthy lifestyle, but they’re not a substitute for the bigger pillars of cholesterol management:
A balanced diet low in saturated fats
Plenty of fruit, vegetables, and soluble fibre
Regular exercise
Limiting alcohol
Stopping smoking
Following medical advice where needed
If anything, cumin works best as part of a holistic approach rather than a standalone fix.
Reports suggesting that cumin may help lower cholesterol are encouraging, and emerging research gives the idea some weight. While cumin won’t replace prescribed treatments, it’s a delicious, nutrient-rich spice that can support overall wellbeing as part of a balanced diet.
If you enjoy its flavour, adding a little more cumin to your meals is a simple and tasty way to support a heart-friendly lifestyle.
Hosting a Medieval Festival at Your Pub or Restaurant
If you’re looking for a fresh way to boost footfall, bring the community together, and offer something genuinely memorable, a medieval-themed festival could be just the thing.
Whether you lean towards accurate historical recreation or a more relaxed, modern interpretation of medieval merriment, this type of event is a proven crowd-pleaser.
With hearty food, themed drinks, period music, and guests encouraged to dress the part, it’s the perfect opportunity to transform your venue into a lively mediaeval hall for an evening—or even a whole weekend.
Why a Medieval Festival Works
Medieval events appeal to all ages and tap into Britain’s long-standing love for history, folklore, and community gatherings. They also offer:
A unique dining experience that stands out from the usual pub or restaurant offering.
A reason for customers to dress up—which many will do with great enthusiasm.
Plenty of photo opportunities, perfect for social media buzz.
Partnership potential with councils, heritage groups, re-enactment societies, choirs, art groups, and local businesses.
A well-run festival can boost your visibility, encourage repeat visits, and position your venue as a creative hub.
Food Fit for a Feast
The star of any medieval celebration is the menu. You can go fully authentic, lightly inspired, or mix the two:
Traditional-style dishes
Roasted meats served on wooden boards
Pottage made with seasonal vegetables
Honey-glazed chicken
Rustic breads and trenchers
Meat pies and hand-raised pastries
Apple tarts, fruited puddings, or spiced cakes
Modern “medieval-inspired” twists
Pulled pork with apple relish
Herb-roasted chicken thighs
Venison burgers
Charred vegetable platters
Mead-glazed wings
Blackberry cheesecakes with spiced crumble
You don’t need a 14th-century kitchen to evoke the era—earthy flavours, seasonal ingredients, and robust presentations work beautifully.
Drinks with a Medieval Flair
Serve a range of themed drinks to complement the feast:
Mead—from local meadaries if possible
Spiced ale and small beer
Cider served in clay or wooden-style tankards
Herbal cordials
Mulled wine or hot spiced berry drinks
For a modern twist, consider:
Honey lager
Rosemary gin cocktails
Blackcurrant ale spritzers
A special “festival brew” from a local brewery could be a great collaboration and selling point.
Setting the Scene
You don’t need a castle to create atmosphere—simple touches go a long way:
Banners, shields and heraldic colours
Long benches or communal tables
Candles or lantern-style lighting (LED versions work perfectly)
Rustic tableware
Straw bales or decorative fabric drapes
Encourage staff to dress in medieval garb too—it helps immerse visitors in the experience.
Music and Entertainment
Invite local musicians to play medieval-style music using traditional instruments such as lutes, fiddles, percussion, and pipes. For a lighter touch, a folk band can adapt their set into a “medieval-flavoured” performance.
Other entertainment ideas include:
Storytellers or wandering minstrels
A jester or comic host
Demonstrations from local re-enactment groups
Craft stalls or shield-painting workshops
Falconry displays in partnership with a nearby attraction
Community Collaboration
Running your festival alongside other local organisations can turn it into a larger annual event:
Local councils may offer promotional support or even small grants for cultural activities.
Civic societies often love heritage-themed events and may help with displays.
Museums, castles, or historic houses might collaborate for joint programming.
Neighbouring pubs or restaurants could host a “medieval trail,” encouraging visitors to enjoy different dishes or themed ales.
Working together boosts the profile of everyone involved and creates something much bigger than a single venue event.
Ideas for Marketing the Festival
Create a simple crest or badge for the event and use it across posters and social media.
Launch a “best costume” competition.
Share short videos of menu preparations.
Highlight local suppliers and partners.
Offer early-bird booking discounts.
Make It an Annual Tradition
A successful medieval festival can easily become a yearly highlight, drawing bigger crowds and encouraging locals and tourists to return. With good food, lively music and a warm welcome, it’s a celebration that brings the past vividly to life while offering a vibrant night out.
That's Christmas 365: Bird Flu. Time to rethink the Christmas centrepiece?
Saturday, 22 November 2025
How to Help a Constipated Cat at Home
Constipation is a fairly common problem in felines, and while severe cases must always be seen by a vet, mild bouts can often be helped safely at home.
If your cat has been straining in the litter tray or hasn’t passed a stool for a little while, here’s a practical guide to easing mild constipation and keeping your furry friend comfortable.
What Are the Signs?
Cats can be subtle, but the clues are often there. Look out for:
Straining or repeatedly visiting the litter tray
Small, dry, pellet-like stools
A dip in appetite
Seeming uncomfortable when lying down
A firm or slightly swollen tummy
A generally grumpy or lethargic mood
If your cat is also vomiting, refusing food entirely, or seems in significant pain, contact your vet straight away.
Gentle Ways to Help at Home
1. Boost Hydration
Water plays a huge role in healthy digestion. To encourage your cat to drink more:
Offer multiple fresh water stations around the house
Use ceramic, metal, or glass bowls rather than plastic
Consider a cat water fountain—many cats adore running water
Add a little water to wet food to increase moisture
2. Add More Wet Food
Wet food is naturally hydrating and easier to digest. Even mixing a portion of wet food into your cat’s usual diet can soften stools and get things moving again.
3. Introduce a Small Amount of Fibre
A touch of fibre can help, provided your cat is drinking enough. Safe options include:
A teaspoon of plain pumpkin purée (but no pie filler)
A tiny pinch of psyllium husk mixed thoroughly into food
Veterinary gastrointestinal diets designed to aid digestion
Introduce fibre gradually—too much too quickly can backfire.
4. Encourage a Little Activity
Even a short burst of play can stimulate the digestive system. Try:
Wand toy
Feather teasers
Light chase games
Puzzle feeders to keep their mind and body moving
5. Create a Stress-Free Litter Tray Area
Cats are particular about their toilets. Make sure:
The tray is clean and easy to reach
There are enough trays—ideally one per cat, plus one spare
The litter is unscented and comfortable underpaw
A relaxed cat is far more likely to use the loo comfortably.
6. Only Use Vet-Approved Stool Softeners
Never give human laxatives—they’re unsafe for cats. Your vet may recommend a precise dose of a feline-friendly option like lactulose or liquid paraffin, but always seek advice before using any medication.
When to Seek Veterinary Help
While mild constipation can often be eased at home, there are times when only a vet will do. Call your vet if:
There have been no stools for 48 hours or more
Your cat is vomiting, refusing food, or appears bloated
You suspect they may have swallowed something
Constipation happens regularly
Your cat has an underlying health condition
Prompt attention helps prevent complications such as megacolon, which can be serious.
A constipated cat can be a worrying sight, but gentle adjustments at home—boosting hydration, improving diet, encouraging movement, and reducing stress—often help things improve. Keep an eye on litter tray habits and trust your instincts: you know your pet better than anyone.
Friday, 21 November 2025
Do Plastic Kettles Taint the Taste of Boiled Water? What UK Drinkers Need to Know
It’s no surprise, then, that some people swear they can detect a strange flavour when their water has been boiled in a plastic kettle.
Others never notice a thing. So, what’s really going on?
Here’s a clear, no-nonsense look at whether plastic kettles affect flavour — and what you can do about it.
Why Plastic Kettles Sometimes Affect the Taste
New kettles can have a faint “factory” flavour
When a plastic kettle is brand new, there may be tiny residues left from manufacturing. These aren’t considered harmful, but they can alter the taste of freshly boiled water until the kettle has been used a few times.
Heat can draw out minor flavours from the plastic
Even food-grade plastics aren’t completely inert. Over time and repeated heating, trace amounts of compounds can migrate into the water. UK and EU regulations keep this within safe limits, but “safe” doesn’t always mean “undetectable” – especially for tea lovers with sharp palates.
Cheaper plastics tend to be more noticeable
Budget kettles may use lower-grade plastics that hold on to odours or develop a noticeable taste as they age.
Why Some People Don’t Notice a Thing
Taste sensitivity varies, and many people simply become used to the flavour of water from their kettle. Higher-quality BPA-free plastic kettles are also much better at limiting taste transfer.
Safety: Is It More Than a Taste Issue?
Plastic kettles sold in the UK must comply with strict food-contact regulations. This means they shouldn’t leach harmful chemicals above approved safety levels.
For most households, the issue is about taste, not safety. But if the idea of hot water and plastic together doesn’t sit well with you, there are excellent alternatives.
How To Reduce the “Plastic Taste”
If you like the convenience of your plastic kettle, try these simple steps:
1. Deep-clean a new kettle
Boil and discard the water a few times. A soak with water and bicarbonate of soda or lemon slices can help shift any lingering scents.
2. Keep your kettle descaled
Limescale traps odours and can make the plastic taste seem worse. Regular descaling improves flavour.
3. Pick better-quality BPA-free models
Reputable brands often use plastics that are much more resistant to taste transfer.
Better-Tasting Alternatives to Plastic
If flavour purity is a priority, consider switching to:
Stainless steel kettles – excellent for neutral taste and durability
Glass kettles – clean-tasting and stylish
Stove-top kettles – slower, but completely plastic-free
Many tea drinkers notice an immediate improvement when they switch from plastic to steel or glass.
Are Some Food Additives Addictive? Exploring the Science Behind Ultra-Processed Cravings
But many people are beginning to wonder: are these foods simply tasty, or are some of their additives designed to keep us coming back for more?
While “addiction” is a strong word, there’s growing discussion among researchers and nutrition experts about how certain additives, combined with highly processed ingredients, may influence cravings and eating behaviour.
Here’s what we know so far.
What Makes a Food ‘Ultra-Processed’?
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) typically contain:
Artificial flavours
Colourings
Emulsifiers
Sweeteners
Texture enhancers
Preservatives
Refined oils and starches
They’re often created to be irresistibly palatable, think uniform crunch, melt-in-the-mouth texture, or that perfect salty-sweet balance. These sensations don’t happen by accident.
The Science of Craving and Reward
Our brains are wired to seek out foods high in fat, sugar, and salt, survival mechanisms from a time when calories were scarce. UPFs often combine all three in a way that rarely occurs in nature, stimulating the brain’s reward pathways more intensely than whole foods.
Some key concepts:
1. Hyper-palatability
Foods engineered with the ideal mix of sugar, fat, and salt can trigger dopamine release, the same neurotransmitter involved in pleasure and reward. This can reinforce habitual eating, even when we’re not hungry.
2. Rapid absorption
Highly processed carbohydrates and sugars are digested quickly, causing glucose spikes and crashes. This roller-coaster effect can leave you reaching for another quick fix.
3. Sensory manipulation
Additives such as flavour enhancers and artificial aromas can amplify taste beyond natural levels. They create strong sensory associations, making certain foods feel “comforting” or “irresistible”.
Are Specific Additives Fueling the Problem?
There’s no single additive officially recognised as “addictive”, but several commonly used ingredients may contribute to overeating when combined within UPFs.
Sweeteners
Some studies suggest artificial sweeteners may intensify sugar cravings by maintaining a preference for very sweet tastes, even when calorie-free.
Flavour enhancers
Additives such as monosodium glutamate (MSG) can boost savoury flavours. For some, this enhances satisfaction; for others, it may encourage overconsumption.
Emulsifiers and stabilisers
Used to improve texture, these may alter gut microbiome balance in ways that affect hunger and fullness signals — an emerging area of research.
High-fructose ingredients
Fructose is processed differently by the body and may affect appetite hormones, potentially skewing satiety cues.
It’s crucial to note: none of these are addictive in the same sense as nicotine or alcohol. Instead, it’s the combination of additives, processing methods, and engineered flavour profiles that may lead to compulsive-style eating.
Why Ultra-Processed Foods Are Hard to Resist
UPFs are designed to be convenient, affordable, long-lasting, and delicious. From a business standpoint, the more you enjoy them, the more likely you are to buy them again. This creates a food environment where the easiest choices are often the most over-engineered.
Some characteristics that keep us reaching for more:
Soft, easy-to-chew textures, less effort means faster eating
Intense flavours that are difficult to replicate at home
Portion-distorting packaging (“grab bags” don’t encourage moderation)
Immediate sensory reward without long-term fullness
It’s a modern food equation: fast pleasure, slow health consequences.
What You Can Do to Stay in Control
You don’t need to cut out every convenience food. But small adjustments can reduce the power UPFs have over daily habits:
Cook simple meals at home a few times a week
Choose snacks with fewer ingredients, such as nuts, yoghurt, or fruit
Read labels and look for items with recognisable components
Balance your plate with protein, fibre, and healthy fats to stay fuller for longer
Be mindful of triggers, such as late-night snacking or stress eating
Remember: knowledge is power. Understanding how foods are engineered helps you make choices that serve your wellbeing rather than your cravings.
The idea that some food additives may be “addictive” isn’t about demonising ingredients. It’s about recognising how the modern food system blends science, flavour engineering, and marketing to create products that keep us coming back for more.
By becoming more aware of what’s in our food, and how it affects our brains and bodies, we can make clearer, more confident decisions about what we eat.
Thursday, 20 November 2025
Celebrate St Andrew’s Day in Style: How to Host a Brilliant Scottish-Themed Party
Whether you have Scottish roots or simply love the country’s culture, hosting a St Andrew’s Day party is a fantastic way to celebrate the patron saint of Scotland and brighten up the dark evenings of late autumn.
Here’s how to create an unforgettable celebration at home.
Set the Scene with Scottish Style
To give your gathering an authentic feel, start with the décor. You don’t need to go overboard—just a few touches can transform the space:
• Tartan accents:
Introduce classic tartan tablecloths, napkins, bows, or bunting. A mix of reds, greens, and blues instantly adds warmth.
• The Saltire:
The Scottish flag makes a perfect centrepiece for your décor. Use small table flags or a larger hanging backdrop.
• Warm, cosy styling:
Fairy lights, candles, and soft throws help bring a Highland lodge vibe to your living room—perfect for a cold November night.
Serve a Proper Scottish Feast
Food is at the heart of any good celebration, and St Andrew’s Day offers the ideal excuse to serve traditional Scottish favourites.
Starters:
Cullen skink (a hearty smoked haddock soup)
Oatcakes with smoked salmon and cream cheese
A selection of Scottish cheeses
Main courses:
Haggis, neeps, and tatties (classic and crowd-pleasing)
Venison stew
A warming bowl of Scotch broth
Puddings:
Cranachan with raspberries, oats, and whisky cream
Sticky toffee pudding
Shortbread biscuits shaped like thistles, stags, or bagpipes
If you fancy adding a modern twist, there’s nothing wrong with Scottish-inspired sharing boards or a whisky-infused dessert.
Raise a Glass to Scotland
No St Andrew’s celebration is complete without a toast.
• Whisky tasting:
Offer a small selection—from Speyside smoothness to peaty Islay malts. Provide tasting cards with brief notes to make it fun and accessible.
• Scottish beers and ales:
BrewDog, Innis & Gunn, Harviestoun and smaller craft breweries have some lovely options.
• Irn-Bru mocktails:
Perfect for designated drivers or younger guests—try an Irn-Bru fizz with orange juice and soda.
Add Music, Dancing and Scottish Cheer
Entertainment is essential for creating that festive atmosphere.
• Playlist:
Create a mix of traditional folk, bagpipe tunes, ceilidh music, and modern Scottish artists such as Runrig, Lulu, Lewis Capaldi, or The Proclaimers.
• Mini ceilidh:
Teach guests a few simple ceilidh dances like the Gay Gordons or Strip the Willow. It’s guaranteed laughter and a brilliant ice-breaker.
• Scottish quiz:
Add a friendly competition with questions about Scottish history, landmarks, food, and famous faces.
Dress the Part—If You Fancy
Encourage guests to embrace the theme with tartan scarves, kilts, blue-and-white accessories, or even St Andrew’s flag face paint. It’s all part of the fun and makes for great photos.
Share the Story of St Andrew
Many people know the date but not the history. A short introduction—such as why St Andrew is the patron saint, the links to early Scottish history, or the traditions that shaped the celebration—adds meaning to the evening.
A Warm, Welcoming Night for Everyone
Hosting a St Andrew’s Day party is all about celebrating friendship, good food, and the spirit of Scotland. With a few thoughtful touches and a relaxed, cheerful atmosphere, your gathering will be a highlight of the season.
If you do want to share the story of St Andrew here is a short biography:-
Who Was St Andrew?
St Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and the brother of St Peter. Born in the first century in Bethsaida, on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, Andrew was originally a fisherman before becoming one of the earliest followers of Christ.
Tradition says that Andrew travelled widely after the resurrection, spreading Christianity through Greece, Asia Minor, and Eastern Europe. He was eventually martyred in the city of Patras around AD 60. According to legend, he requested to be crucified on a diagonal cross, feeling unworthy to die in the same manner as Jesus. This X-shaped cross later became the iconic symbol of Scotland, forming the basis of the Saltire flag.
St Andrew became associated with Scotland centuries later through a mixture of legend, relics, and devotion. His remains were said to have been brought to the east coast of Fife, inspiring the town now known as St Andrews. By the Middle Ages, he had become firmly established as Scotland’s patron saint, celebrated for qualities such as courage, humility, and hospitality.
Today, St Andrew’s Day on 30 November is marked with national pride, music, dancing, and a celebration of Scottish identity.
Kimbo, the ambassador of Neapolitan coffee excellence in the world, at HostMilano 2025 with new products and its time-honored blends
Events, talks, and tastings focused not only on Kimbo's classics but also on its new 2025 products, also designed for the international market.
It is no coincidence that Kimbo's exhibition stand, designed to share more than sixty years of family and business history, was divided into four stylistically very different thematic areas which, in dialogue with each other, brought the entire Kimbo world to visitors' attention.
In the first area, dedicated to tasting the Premium Line of coffee beans and complementary coffee products, Kimbo's new visual identity for the out-of-home market found its maximum expression with the story of Kimbo's roots and its three talents: selection, blending, and roasting.
The Specialty area was dedicated to the new "Sapiente" line, handcrafted by Kimbo Neapolitan Master Roasters in the brand-new microroastery opened within the historic Melito di Napoli plant.
With Sapiente, Kimbo has revolutionized the world of Specialty coffee with two major innovations: the first is that the line is composed exclusively of blends from different origins, showcasing the quintessential Italian art of blending different components to achieve a balance of flavors that a single origin can hardly provide, especially when brewed as an espresso.
The second is the use of not only Specialty Arabica but also Fine Robusta, the excellence of the Canephora botanical species, with the goal of enhancing the latter and finally giving "equal dignity" to the two botanical species.
The Sapiente line comprises three products: "Incanto," 100% Specialty Arabica, "Stupore," 100% Fine Robusta, and "Mistero," 50% each. These blends offer extraordinary flavor experiences depending on the coffee extraction methods used, including V60, Chemex, Neapolitan cuccuma, and more.
The Single-Portion area confirmed the success of the “Le Meraviglie del Gusto” line - which has its peak value in the Compostable Pod - and the rise of the line of Nespresso®* Compatible Aluminum Capsules, which offers a true “barista-like” extraction.
A fourth area, called Casa Rubino, conceived as a cultural hub, hosted several talk shows aimed at disseminating news and topics related to the world of coffee. The Rubino family and Kimbo management treated the space like a living room, with the savoir faire that has always distinguished the ancient and proverbial Neapolitan cult of hospitality.
But it doesn't end there. A second stand, almost a new format for fine dining, the "Bar Rubino"—just as the small pastry shop founded in the 1950s in the heart of the Rione Sanità district was called—exploded the strong theme of local tradition, a corporate value and family heritage that has always been central to Kimbo. The bar's undisputed star was the new line—perfect in moka pots, cuccuma pots, and espresso—"Kimbo Antica Miscela dal 1963," which, after its launch in large-scale retail outlets, also debuted at Host in a new bean-to-cup version for the Ho.Re.Ca. sector, offering Kimbo fans around the world an immersive experience in Neapolitan tradition.
“Bringing new life to our old and precious Antica Miscela, the first created by brothers Elio, Francesco and Gerardo Rubino, founders of our company, has been a truly surprising discovery. Not only because it was obtained, already in 1963, from a blend of only Arabica varieties, but also because it has brought us back to the loving pursuit of quality that has always distinguished our company, which still remains a family business, where every resource is ‘family’” says Mario Rubino, Chairman of Kimbo S.p.A. “In Kimbo, we extend the value of care to both our business partners and customers, a value which reflects the spirit we strive to pass on in every Kimbo coffee experience.”
The synthesis of the two stands once again highlights to Host guests how Kimbo offers a unique and authentically glocal proposal, inspired by the territory and dedicated to the world, as demonstrated by the K-Cups and Cold Brew products, dedicated to one of the most dynamic coffee markets, the United States of America.






