Author: Karen Contrino

Over four billion egg-laying hens worldwide are confined to small, cramped cages, unable to stretch their wings, nest, or engage in natural behaviors. These inhumane conditions lead to immense suffering and compromised immune systems, posing health risks for both animals and humans. In response, a group of top chefs—Christine Cushing, Derek Sarno, Priyanka Naik, Leslie Durso, and Jeff Mahin—are joining forces with The Humane League (THL) to speak out against cages for egg-laying hens and inspire more compassionate consumer choices. Derek Sarno, co-founder of Wicked Kitchen, former Senior Global Executive Chef for Whole Foods Market USA, and Director of Plant-Based Innovation for Tesco PLC, U.K: “Caging animals for…

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Free school meal pilots in York could be extended to two further schools next year following initial research into the impact of the meals. Pupils in key Stage 2 (years 3-6)* at Westfield Primary Community School and pupils at Burton Green Primary School have been able to get free school lunches, and breakfasts, respectively, since early 2024, thanks to funding from City of York Council and donations to the York Community Fund’s York Hungry Minds Appeal. The pilots were set up to test the delivery of Universal Free School Meals in addressing disadvantage and the cost of living crisis. Research…

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In this winter-warming Spid the Spider adventure, Spid and friends visit the Highlands. What sets this adventure apart is its unique blend of entertainment and education for children aged 4-10 years. While delivering laughs and thrills, it also reimagines aspects of late 13th and early 14th-century Scottish history, in particular, a spidery tale involving Robert the Bruce. In the story, Spid reads about King Robert the Spid of Glenthistle in a history book, and then decides to visit his cousin, Hamish McSpid, who lives there. However, Spid and his friends have hardly arrived when strange things begin to happen. Of…

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With its latest marketing campaign, ‘More Than Only Food & Drink’ the European Union (EU) provides plenty of inspiration for retailers and wholesalers looking to update their festive ranges this year. Major UK supermarkets have once again looked to European influences for their Christmas food and drink offerings, albeit with a less than traditional twist. Products featuring EU ingredients and influences can be seen across the seasonal product categories and include Seafood and Chorizo Shells, Sweet Spiced Gammon with Citrus Glaze and Panettone Crumb and Golden Limoncello Stollen Bites. From aperitifs, wine pairings, succulent meats, charcuterie, several thousand cheeses and…

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The Chartered Trading Standards Institute responds to the Tobacco and Vapes Bill that has been introduced to Parliament today (Tuesday 5 November 2024). John Herriman, Chief Executive at the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI), said: “The Trading Standards profession very much welcomes the introduction of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill and the increase in age of sale for all tobacco products. We stand ready to support businesses to understand their obligations, and take action against anyone who ignores those obligations, as well as being prepared to take action against businesses that flaunt them. “CTSI has, with key partners, been instrumental…

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A groundbreaking new AI training programme designed specifically for the UK construction industry has been launched today, aimed at empowering construction managers and leaders with the skills needed to embrace the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI). ‘AI in construction: Skills for the future’, created by Innovate UK BridgeAI programme in partnership with Trilateral Research, includes in-person networking evenings, targeted training sessions, and stakeholder webinars, providing a comprehensive introduction to AI technologies that are reshaping the construction sector. With rapid advancements in AI and machine learning, construction firms are increasingly able to benefit from integrating these technologies into their operations to drive efficiency,…

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Unbeleafable, the award-winning salad range from the UK’s pioneering vertical farm GrowUp, has launched in Sainsbury’s stores across the UK. Sainsbury’s is now stocking two of the ready-to-eat, UK-grown bagged salads from the Unbeleafable range: the Mild Mixed Baby Leaves and Rocket and Baby Leaves. Unbeleafable leaves are grown, and packed, in a controlled environment at GrowUp’s vertical farm in Kent. The farm uses state-of-the-art technology to create the ideal environment for the leaves to thrive, ensuring they receive the optimal balance of water, light and nutrients. Will Howard, UK MD and chief commercial officer at GrowUp said: “We are…

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 A charming, family-run restaurant in the heart of Edinburgh is leading the charge for a new sense of community and collaboration among local small businesses this holiday season. In a time when many are feeling the financial pinch, this innovative initiative aims to foster a culture of community over competition, by encouraging small hospitality businesses to swap resources and services. This holiday season, instead of splurging on extravagant staff parties at corporate venues, the owner of Tani Modi has proposed a creative and budget-friendly alternative. The concept is simple yet impactful: a restaurant swap. Under this initiative, one small restaurant hosts the…

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This festive season, Ayllu Restaurant invites guests to immerse themselves in an exceptional dining experience blending Japanese and Peruvian flavours with holiday classics. From a special Christmas tasting menu to a luxurious six-course feast on Christmas Day and a New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball, Ayllu promises to make this festive period unforgettable. Festive Tasting Menu From the 25th November – 24th December, Ayllu’s festive tasting menu offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines, expertly crafted to bring warmth and celebration to the holiday season. Starting at just £45, guests can enjoy an array of courses that highlight both…

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Smith’s Bar & Grill, a beloved restaurant in the heart of Paddington, invited guests to celebrate the festive season in style with a specially crafted menu and exclusive seasonal events. From a delectable three-course festive set menu to unforgettable Christmas Day dining and a grand New Year’s Eve masquerade ball, Smith’s promises an atmosphere of warmth, elegance, and a delicious feast. Festive Menu Indulge in the finest flavours of the season with Smith’s three-course festive set menu for £70pp, a perfect choice for gatherings with family, friends, or colleagues. Available from the 25th November – 24th December. Diners can choose…

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