Tag: food and drink

Edinburgh Shopper Scoops over £700 for CHAS in Aldi Supermarket Sweep

Aldi Scotland’s much-loved Supermarket Sweep challenge recently returned to Edinburgh, and one lucky local winner has raised £726.77 for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) while picking up the same amount in Aldi favourites for herself. 

Aldi’s popular Supermarket Sweep is inspired by the legendary gameshow and arrived at the Chesser store on 16 April 2025. Lucky shopper Amy Utzinger. who was chosen as the winner of a competition, took part in the five-minute trolley dash for CHAS.

As well as taking home a trolley full of goodies, Aldi Scotland matched the cash value of Amy’s haul, donating all proceeds to CHAS to help support over 500 babies, children and young people across Scotland with life-shortening conditions and their families. In 2025 every penny raised through the initiative will go directly to CHAS, with £10,000 pledged in support. 

Aldi Supermarket Sweep winner, Amy Utzinger, said: “What a fantastic experience! I’ve never had five minutes fly by so quickly.

“I had a strategy all planned out, but it flew right out of my head as soon as I started, and I just started grabbing things.

“The people at Aldi were so kind and helpful, and I was so pleased to help CHAS get more donations, they deserve every penny. Thanks so much to Aldi for a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime experience!”

Iain McAndrew, CHAS Director of Income Generation and Engagement said: “This year CHAS has been supporting 51 families in the NHS Lothian area. Children and families can access a range of expert care depending on their needs, from palliative care, respite stays, family support as well as bereavement and spiritual care, helping families make the most of every precious moment together.

“Our work to keep the joy alive for children and families is made possible by the kindness and generosity of our volunteers, supporters and fundraisers, and partnerships with organisations like Aldi Scotland, without whom we could not deliver our vital services for children and families to ensure that no family in Scotland faces the death of their child alone.”

Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, Aldi Scotland said: “Our annual Supermarket Sweep holds a special place in the Aldi calendar, and we’re so pleased to bring it back for another year. Congratulations to Amy who managed to raise a fantastic £726.77 for CHAS, while snapping up a whole load of Aldi favourites for herself.

“CHAS is an incredible organisation which does invaluable work for families in Scotland.  We are committed to raising as much money as possible so the charity can continue to provide vital hospice care to children with life-shortening conditions, and unwavering support to families during the most difficult moments imaginable.”

For more information about CHAS and how to support its work, visit:

https://www.chas.org.uk/

Sugarier than Coke: Dentists press for government action on baby food

The British Dental Association has urged Government to step up and confront the baby food industry, after the most wide-ranging analysis of the UK baby food pouch market every undertaken has found no improvement in the sugar content. 

The professional body has noted that market leader Ella’s Kitchen, Piccolo and Aldi appear to have pre-empted the launch of this damning research on BBC’s Panorama tonight by confirming cosmetic changes to their labelling, to bring them in line with NHS guidance on not marketing products to infants under 6 months. While technically a ‘win,’ dentists’ leaders stress these changes do nothing to reduce grotesque levels of sugar or reign in ‘halo labelling’ claims. 

The BDA contacted Annabel Karmel, the worst offender from its last review in 2022, and was informed they have withdrawn from the UK market. 

Market analysis of 209 products aimed at children aged under 12 months – the largest such exercise ever attempted, and nearly double the BDA’s pioneering 2022 study – found: 

  • Top brands are actively undermining government guidance on weaning from around 6 months. At the time this research was undertaken market leader Ella’s Kitchen and Piccolo were pushing products to 4-month olds contrary to Government guidelines, simply stating that “every baby is different”.
  • It’s straightforward to offer lower sugar levels. While ‘natural’ levels of sugar are described by manufacturers as inevitable with fruit-based pouches, some brands offer products based on similar ingredients that contain a fraction of the sugar levels of the worst offenders. Aldi Mamia Organic’s Apple & banana porridge contains just 5.5g per 100g, a third of the levels of similar recipes at the very top of the table. Given there is no evidence of widespread systemic change, it underlines the need for government intervention.
  • Over a quarter contained more sugar by volume than Coca Cola, with parents of infants as young as four months marketed pouches that contain the equivalent of up to 184% of the sugar levels of the soft drink, dizzying heights not seen in the 2022 research. Those pouches are without exception fruit-based mixes.
  • ‘Boutique’ brands still appear to have higher levels of sugar than traditional baby food brands or own-brand alternatives. Market leader Ella’s Kitchen is now the worst offender, its Banana puree taking the sugar crown with 19.5g per 100g from Annabel Karmel’s now discontinued Apple, Blueberry and Banana, at 17.3g.
  • Nearly a quarter of products examined contained up to two thirds of an adult’s recommended maximum daily of free sugars. Neither the World Health Organization (WHO) nor the UK’s Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) cite a guideline limit for babies, simply stressing that as little should be consumed as possible.
  • The sector remains wedded to disingenuous language highlighting the presence of only “naturally occurring sugars” or the absence of “added sugars”, with others making opaque claims of products being “nutritionist approved”. All high-sugar products adopt ‘halo labelling’ principles, focusing on status as ‘organic’, ‘high in fibre’ or ‘containing 1 of your 5 a day’, misleading parents into thinking they are making healthy choices for their children. Kiddylicious offer a “bedtime blend” suggesting a product with 13g sugar per portion is appropriate before sleep.
  • Nearly 3/4  of the products examined exceeded the 5g of sugar per 100ml threshold set for the sugar levy applied to drinks. Dentists stress expansion of fiscal measures would likely have favourable outcomes in terms of encouraging reformulation.
  • Eating straight from the pouch. Since the withdrawal of Annabel Karmel from the UK market, the BDA has not been able to identify any manufacturers still recommending babies feed straight from the pouch. However, only two brands – Sainsbury’s and Lidl – rule out this out this approach, which adds to the risk of dental disease.  Asda specifically state that ‘eating straight from the pouch can contribute to tooth decay.’ 

The BDA are launching a petition to the Department of Health to double down in the fight on sugar, with mandatory regulation, and to build on tried and tested policies from both home and abroad.

BDA Chair Eddie Crouch said: “Parents of infants are still being marketed products sugarier than Coke. 

“It shouldn’t take dentists naming and shaming the worst offenders to bring about needed change. Voluntary action has failed. We need government to step up and force industry to do the right thing.”

Full data is available to download here…

THE WORST OFFENDERS:

Ella’s Kitchen – Banana Puree https://www.ellaskitchen.co.uk/shop/bananas-baby-puree

With the highest sugar by volume, Ella’s Kitchen takes the sugar crown from past holders Annabel Karmel, who have now discontinued their line of pouches.

Ella’s Kitchen appear to have raced changes to packaging to pre-empt Panorama airing, removing messages that targeted the 4-month year old market, undermining official guidance by citing government advice on weaning from 6 months, but noting that “every baby is different!”

They look set to maintain all the ‘halo labelling’ cliches on ‘no added sugar’, being ‘organic’. The one redeeming feature is pouches offer guidance not to consume the puree straight from the pouch.

For Aisha: Pear & pomegranate https://www.foraisha.com/product/pear-pomegranate-pouch-100g/

A brand that prides itself on exotic flavours – the only pouch on the market featuring pomegranate – takes silver for sugar levels, at 16.4g/100g targeting infants aged 4 months+

Aldi Mamia Organic: Bananas & Apples https://www.aldi.co.uk/product/mamia-apple-bananas-pouch-000000000346206001

The highest amount of sugar in any pouch identified – with a portion size so large for its target 4- month plus market it represents nearly 2/3 of an adult’s RDA of sugar, and the same amount of sugar as half a can of coke.

Piccolo: Pure mango https://www.mylittlepiccolo.com/products/babies/pouches/pure-mango/?srsltid=AfmBOoq0ChT7IjUfbtLJnmyHtdHDhQDwJ2ReiNAKYMdiLaN2PsU8-NNr

Pure mango does exactly what is says on the tin, delivering 15g/100g of sugar to the 4-month+ market, also claiming that ‘every baby is different.

Cocktail Bar with Scotland’s largest collection of rum celebrates first Birthday with new Low-Waste Menu

Edinburgh-based Ruma – home to the largest collection of rum across the whole of Scotland – is adapting to an ever-changing cocktail scene with a brand-new low-waste menu including non-alcoholic & non-rum options, launching an online shop, plus a host of new tasting experiences.

Ruma (Scots Gaelic for Rum) host to over 170 bottles of the spirit – more than any bar ever in Scotland – is celebrating one year in business.

The rum experts are adjusting positively to a rapidly-evolving cocktail scene with a brand-new cocktail menu including a host of non-rum and non-alcoholic options, as well as launching an online shop in time for summer 2025. 

Ruma’s brand-new menu is split into five sections based on each drink’s flavour profile: Fresh, Fruity, Short, Smoke & Savoury, and Classics – the idea is to make it as easy as possible for guests to navigate, learn & discover new cocktails – alcoholic as well as non-alcoholic.  

Reducing waste throughout, the menu strives to use each ingredient to its fullest. Ruma’s most popular drink, the Spiced Pear Mule – which uses a poached pear syrup from fresh pears – is utilised to the maximum. 

Any wasted fruit from the Spiced Pear Mule is then blended with spent wine, to create a new drink – the Mrs Kenmore –  which is carbonated alongside a gentian liqueur and Brugal 1888 Rum, to create a fresh, fizzy cocktail reminiscent of sparkling wine. 

A new online bottle shop will launch at the beginning of May containing all 170 of the Ruma’s rums available for rum-lovers to enjoy 30ml sample bottles at home. Ruma is also launching a range of canned cocktails for the new menu, handing them out to local businesses and bars to create comradery among independent business owners.

Ruma now offers ‘Rum Experiences’ – bookable each week on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday. A tasting flight of three rums, with different categories available such as ‘Taste of the Caribbean’ or ‘Intro to Scottish Rum’. 

The bar also hosts ‘Passport Sessions’, a world tour of rum tastings specialising in a different country each month and sampling six hard to find or rare bottlings, taking guests to the likes of Guyana, Haiti, Barbados, and Martinique. 

Ruma Co-Owner, Jamie Shields, said: “We opened Ruma one year ago to welcome the largest collection of Rum to Scotland. The response from our loyal guests has been amazing. A thirst for knowledge and interest in where each rum comes from and tastes like is what our staff love talking about. 

“In our first year we have seen a demand for cocktails and drinks of all types. At our heart we will always be a rum bar, but we also thought ‘why can’t we offer a range of other drinks too?’ Non-alcoholic options are now key in hospitality. Rather than relegating these to a section at the back of the menu, we believe that guests who are not drinking alcohol should have the same menu experience as those who are, as each has been crafted with as much care as the drinks with alcohol. 

“We love championing local. That’s why we serve local beer from Campervan Brewery, and we also have a great wine list by the glass too. Ruma’s goal is to serve the widest range of rum in the country through unforgettable experiences, but also offer deliciously alternative drinks to ensure guests leave with a satisfied smile on their face, and always come back for more”.  

Ruma is based at 39-41 Broughton Street in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town serving Scotland’s largest collection of rum. 

Foysol Choudhury Congratulates Anisa Khan, the First Finalist of Bengali-descent on BBC’s The Apprentice

Foysol Choudhury, MSP for Lothian, congratulates Anisa Khan, a 26-year-old entrepreneur who has made history as the first finalist of Bengali descent to appear on BBC’s The Apprentice.

She is the owner of Bombay Pizza, an Indian-Italian fusion pizza company in London. She identifies as a British-Bangladeshi woman and her heritage plays a significant role in her business and her identity.

She is a national Kabaddi player from London and has founded Bombay Pizza with the plan to redefine success with the incorporation of South Asian influence.

As the first finalist of Bengali descent, she blends her cultural pride into her work, representing her passion for food, family, and culture.

The Apprentice is one of the UK’s most influential reality TV shows, showcasing ambitious entrepreneurs competing for a business investment from Lord Alan Sugar.

Over nearly two decades, it has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring viewers with high-stakes challenges, strategic decision-making, and entrepreneurial ambition.

The 2025 finale, which aired on Thursday, April 17, drew around 3.5 million viewers, with Dean Franklin, founder of ADL Air Conditioning, named Lord Sugar’s newest business partner.

Since 2020, Anisa has been operating Bombay Pizza from a dark kitchen in Wallington, Sutton, crafting hand-crafted pizzas inspired by South Asian flavours.

Due to high demand, Bombay Pizza currently offers in-person orders only, but Anisa recently launched Bombay Pizza by Post, a nationwide delivery service.

Last month’s postal orders sold out quickly, but customers can sign up for the mailing list to be the first to know when they’re back in stock. In celebration of her Apprentice journey, Anisa has introduced a special edition of Apprentice-inspired pizzas on Bombay Pizza by Post, each named after one of the final five contestants.

‘The Anisa’ features Bengali chicken naga, peppers, red onions, and mozzarella on a spicy masala base—bringing the heat in true Apprentice fashion.

Anisa approached The Apprentice with confidence and ambition, believing in the immense potential of Bombay Pizza’s unique concept and its overwhelmingly positive reception.

Reflecting on her time on the show, she shared, “I didn’t realise how resilient I was as a person. I’m someone that if I have a goal, I’ll make it happen.”

Over 12 gruelling weeks, she showcased determination and drive, making her one of the standout contenders of the season.

In the series finale, Anisa finished as runner-up. She remains undeterred, leveraging her experience and connections to propel Bombay Pizza to even greater heights. This is truly a world-class achievement and has given a sense of pride to the Bangladeshi and South Asian community in the UK. For those eager to taste the flavours that took her so far, a visit to Bombay Pizza in Wallington, London is a must.

Commenting, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “Anisa has brought great pride to the Bangladeshi community in Scotland and throughout the UK.

“Her contemporary ideas and fusion of South Asian flavour and Italian cuisine have been a wonderful addition to the restaurant sector in London.

“I am proud to call her father, Mr. Yawar Khan, a dear friend and I look forward to witnessing the success of her business continue.”

National Tea Day: How to make the perfect cuppa

To celebrate National Tea Day (21st April), an expert at Yorkshire Tea has revealed the four steps to making the perfect cup of tea. 

Tea is still the nation’s favourite hot drink, with over 100,000,000 cups being drunk in the UK every single day of the year. 

To help people celebrate this National Tea Day properly, Katie Kippax, tea buyer at Yorkshire Tea, the UK’s #1 brew, has shared the secrets to making the perfect brew, including the exact time you need to leave the teabag in your mug. 

Katie says: “Everyone makes tea differently, but there are some general rules to getting it right. So, if you want to impress the tea lovers in your life, here are some expert tips from the team at Yorkshire Tea for making a proper brew.”

  1) Only use fresh water – “The oxygen in water helps to bring out the flavour in your tea, so make sure to use fresh water and only boil it once to keep the O2 level up.” 

2) Warm up your mug – “Tea likes hot water just off the boil, so don’t wait around when your kettle has finished. It’s important to keep the temperature up, and a chilly teapot or mug can cool things down. Consider warming them with a little hot water before making your tea to help the flavour to develop.” 

3) Brew for at least four minutes – “Tea also needs time to unlock all its flavour, so leave the teabag brewing for around four to five minutes to do its thing. Trust us, it really makes a difference. It might seem like a long time, but it is worth the investment!”  

4) Squeeze gently and only once – “Before removing the tea bag, gently squidge it against the side of the mug. Make sure you only do this once and gently or else your brew will taste bitter.” 

Katie adds: “However you make your brew, we raise our mugs to you all this National Tea Day!” 

For more expert advice from Yorkshire Tea on how to make the perfect brew, visit: https://www.yorkshiretea.co.uk/our-teas/how-to-make-a-proper-brew

Edinburgh’s “blockbuster” burger joint back for another bite at Deliveroo Restaurant Awards


Luxford Burgers hope to be crowned culinary champions for a second year

One Edinburgh eatery is hoping for a second helping of success at the Deliveroo Restaurant Awards. Foodie favourite, Luxford Burgers, has made the shortlist in the Best Burger and American category, with the award set to go to the food joint that griddles their patties to perfection.

Independent burger chain, Luxford Burgers, has gained a firm foodie following since opening in 2020. Taking inspiration from the silver screen, artwork from cult classic films adorn the interiors, the menu boasts a range of burgers named after must-watch movies, and complimentary popcorn is served while diners wait for the chefs to cook up a hit.

And these blockbuster burgers have already turned the heads of culinary critics. Last year, Luxford Burgers took home the awards for Independent Restaurant of the Year and Scotland Burger Restaurant of the Year at the 2024 Deliveroo Restaurant Awards. And now they’re back for another bite. 

Will Shu, chief executive and founder at Deliveroo, said; “The Deliveroo Restaurant Awards is about championing the local restaurants who provide incredible selection and quality food in their communities.

These restaurants are the beating heart of our towns and cities, and they obsess over making sure every food delivery is a special moment for our customers – that’s something worth celebrating.”

Reacting to the news that Luxford Burgers had made the shortlist once again, executive director Alexander Galpin said: “Our team work incredibly hard to source quality, fresh ingredients and create original flavour combinations that really stand out, so we’re glad we’ve caught the attention of the judges.

“We had a taste of success last year and now we’re coming back for more!”

Whether they emerge as culinary champions this year is all down to the public. Burger buffs have got until Friday 9th May to cast their vote via the Deliveroo Restaurant Awards website, with the winners set to be announced on Wednesday 28th May.

Tesco shopper selects local school to receive a £5,000 donation

St Thomas of Aquin’s High School is celebrating after being selected by a Tesco customer to receive a £5,000 donation.

On Saturday 15th March, Tesco customers at the Edinburgh Nicholson Street Express store were given the chance to take part in a lucky dip to find a golden version of Tesco’s famous blue voting token.

St Thomas of Aquin’s High School was one of three local groups that customers could vote for to receive the £5,000 Golden Grant as part of Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme.

Philippa Hastings, a member of staff at St Thomas of Aquin’s High School, said: “This funding will be used to support the families of the St Thomas of Aquin’s school students in accessing extra-curricular and excursion opportunities at a time when many families are struggling with the cost of living.

“We are trying to develop educational and engaging opportunities for young people to learn outside of the classroom and are thrilled to be able to support families financially thanks to this grant.”

Over one hundred Tesco stores across the country took part in the Golden Grants event, with £500,000 in total being donated to good causes that help children and young people.

Stronger Starts helps schools and children’s groups provide nutritious food and healthy activities that support young people’s physical health and mental wellbeing, such as breakfast clubs or snacks, as well as purchasing equipment for healthy activities.

Claire De Silva, Head of Communities at Tesco said: “We are incredibly proud to award Golden Grants to over one hundred schools and local projects, supporting the vital work they do for our children and communities.

“Since we launched our grants programme in 2016, more than £120 million has been given to more than 67,000 local schools and community groups.”

Golden Grants are part of Tesco’s £8 million Stronger Starts grant programme, which is delivered in partnership with the charity Groundwork UK.

Laura Anderson swaps Dubai for Troon to launch Equi’s new Dubai Chocolate Ice Cream Flavour

Former Capital Radio presenter and Love Island star, Laura Anderson, swapped the beaches of Dubai for sunkissed Troon beach on Friday (11 April) as she launched Equi’s limited edition Dubai Chocolate ice cream. 

The indulgent creamy ice cream is made with a chocolate base and is layered with delicious pistachio ripple and crunchy kataifi pastry pieces throughout. Over 41 parlours across Scotland are stocking the latest edition to Equi’s flavour wheel. From Aberdeen to Edinburgh and Glasgow to Largs more than 4000 scoops have been delivered in time for the weekend.

Laura Anderson said: “Everyone knows Dubai is one of my favourite places in the whole world.

“Dubai Chocolate has always been a staple every time I visit and to have it available as an ice cream is like complete heaven.”

Equis’s ice cream new product Laura Anderson – love island.

David Equi, owner of South Lanarkshire based Equi’s said: “Having lived in Dubai for ten years and making frequent visits back, we knew Laura was perfect to launch our new ice cream flavour.

“With Dubai Chocolate already being rationed by supermarkets we’re confident our Dubai Chocolate ice cream is going to be a huge hit with customers. But don’t wait too long – we’ve limited stock available and once you’ve tried it once we can guarantee you’ll be back for more.”

Fort Kinnaird announces Easter weekend opening hours

HOLIDAY FUN FOR FAMILIES

Fort Kinnaird has confirmed its opening hours for the upcoming Easter bank holiday weekend and is inviting families to enjoy a packed programme of fun, food and entertainment throughout the school holidays.

Whether you’re looking to stock up on Easter crafting supplies, treating the kids to a special meal out, or sampling some limited-edition Easter sweet treats, there is something for everyone looking to make the most of the long weekend and beyond.  

The centre’s opening hours over the Easter weekend will be:

  • Good Friday (Friday 18th April): 9am – 9pm 
  • Easter Saturday (Saturday 19th April): 9am – 6pm 
  • Easter Sunday (Sunday 20th April): 9am – 6pm
  • Easter Monday (Monday 21st April): 9am – 9pm 

Opening times at individual retailers may vary, so visitors are encouraged to check with specific venues ahead of their trip.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We know the Easter break is a cherished time for families to relax, reconnect and make lasting memories.

“That’s why we’re delighted to be hosting a wide range of exciting Easter activities and deals all in one destination, from offers on Easter crafts to discounts at some of our most popular restaurants.”

Easter fun to make the most of at Fort Kinnaird includes:

  • Easter crafting essentials from Hobbycraft: Up your Easter craft game this year by making the most of a 50% discount on some supplies. From paint your own ceramics sets to paint by numbers, there’s something to keep all the little ones entertained on a rainy day.
  • Indulge in some Easter goodies at Frankie & Benny’s: Nothing says Easter like Cadbury Crème Eggs and Frankie & Benny’s have combined these with their cookie dough dessert for the ultimate sweet treat this Easter.
  • Free workshops at Pets at Home: The popular My Pet Pals workshops will be returning to Pets at Home this Easter, where children can get involved in some free crafts while learning about pet welfare and how to look after animals – educational and fun!
  • Kids eat free at Pizza Express: When you’re not snacking on chocolate eggs this Easter, treat your family to a meal at Pizza Express, where kids get a free Piccolo meal with every adult main. This includes Dough Balls, pizza, pasta, or salad, a dessert, and a Bambinoccino.

For more information and to plan your Easter trip to Fort Kinnaird, visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/ 

Celebrate the build-up to Easter with limited edition “Build-A-Burger” offer

Luxford Burgers encourages kids to get creative with new menu

Easter is a time to gather all the family round the table. But if the thought of traditional roast lamb doesn’t appeal to your little ones, why not shake things up a bit this holiday and opt for a fun, customisable culinary experience that encourages the kids to get creative? 

Luxford Burgers is celebrating the build-up to Easter with a special Build-A-Burger offer. For a limited time only, children can grab an exclusive menu and design their dream burger. With a choice of beef, chicken or veggie patties, plus a combination of up to 12 toppings, this unmissable dining deal puts the kids firmly in control. 

From scrumptious smoked streaky bacon and classic crispy onions to mouth-watering mango salsa and chunky cheddar cheese, kids can get creative with their toppings of choice. Plus, they can colour in their personalised burger design while they wait for the award-winning chefs to cook and plate it up for them.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Luxford Burgers’ Executive Director, Alexander Galpin, said; “Experimenting with different flavour combinations is a great way for kids to learn about food in a fun and creative way.

“And what better way for them to do that than by stacking up a range of delicious toppings to create their own unique signature burger? We’re excited to see what they come up with!”

Each made-to-order Build-A-Burger costs just £8 and can be enjoyed at Luxford Burgers’ two Edinburgh locations at St. Leonard’s Street and Brandon Terrace.

Available for a limited time only, this exclusive Easter offer runs Monday – Thursday, 12-4pm, until Monday 21st April. Advanced booking is advised because this palate-pleasing offer is sure to prove popular!