Asian hornets, known for preying on honeybees and endangering UK food supplies, have been spotted in England earlier than usual this year, sparking concerns about their potential spread. For the first time, UK experts have recorded overwintering of yellow-legged hornet queens, raising fears that the invasive species may establish a foothold in the country. Ecologists warn that increased sightings could pose a significant threat to ecosystems and food security if left unchecked.The species, originally from Asia, has been making its way across Europe since it arrived in France in a pottery consignment two decades ago. First sighted in the UK…
Author: Food Fitness
The ongoing UK cost of living crisis has stretched out for what seems like an eternity. While inflation rates have now stabilised to more “normal” levels, the worst of the crisis saw prices skyrocket at rates not seen in decades, while wages lagged far behind. So, is the crisis finally nearing its end, and will prices ever come down?In July 2024, inflation rose slightly to 2.2%, marking the first increase of the year. This figure is still close to the Bank of England’s target inflation rate of 2%, which was achieved in May and June, bringing some relief to UK…
Shoppers across the UK are struggling to find fresh fruit and vegetables as supermarket shelves remain sparse. Major retailers, including Tesco, Aldi, Asda, Morrisons, and Lidl, have introduced rationing to manage dwindling supplies of popular items like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. This shortage, which is affecting customers nationwide, has left many frustrated, with some criticising supermarkets for poor planning.The supermarkets have attributed the shortages to severe weather conditions in Spain and Morocco, where heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and even snowstorms have disrupted farming and transportation. However, the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) suggests that rising energy costs have also played a significant…
The rapid decline in the number of abattoirs across the UK has raised concerns about the country’s food security. Since the 1970s, the number of British abattoirs has plummeted from around 2,500 to just 203, according to the British Meat Processors Association (BMPA). This significant drop threatens not only the survival of local livestock farmers but also the nation’s food supply chain.The BMPA has issued a warning that if the decline continues unchecked, it will have long-term repercussions on British farming and food production. The association has highlighted a combination of factors driving this worrying trend, including reduced livestock numbers,…
If you’re a fan of a poached egg on toast but struggle with traditional methods, a new TikTok hack might be just what you need. The popular TikTok user @chefspartypants claims you can achieve a perfectly poached egg in as little as 44 seconds using a microwave. Intrigued by this quick method, I decided to put it to the test to see if it lives up to the hype.A Quick and Simple MethodPoached eggs have been a breakfast favourite of mine, especially when paired with salmon on toasted sourdough bread. However, I’ve often found the process challenging. Traditional poaching methods…
Bananas are a beloved staple in many households across the UK, but their short shelf-life can be frustrating. Often, bananas bought when fully ripe will only last two to three days before becoming overripe. If purchased green, they might last longer but can sometimes remain stubbornly unripe. However, experts have shared a simple yet effective trick to extend the freshness of bananas for up to 10 days.One common method is to store bananas on the kitchen counter or in a fruit bowl, but this might not always be the best option if you want them to last longer. According to…
As autumn approaches, gardeners are encouraged to use an unusual but effective trick to protect bird food: sprinkle chilli powder. This vibrant spice not only adds a unique touch to your garden but also serves a practical purpose during this critical time of year.Why Chilli Powder?September is an ideal month for preparing our gardens to support birds as they prepare for winter. Birds face increasing challenges, with a significant decline in insect populations over recent decades. Insects have diminished by up to 80% due to habitat loss and climate change, affecting the food supply for many bird species. With fewer…
The UK Government is being urged to develop a national food security strategy that addresses the entire food system, from agriculture to manufacturing, logistics, and retail. This call comes from a recent report by the Policy Exchange think tank, which emphasises the importance of prioritising food security as a key driver of economic growth.In its report, “Strengthening the UK’s Food Security: Innovation and Investment in the Food Manufacturing Sector,” the think tank argues that previous government initiatives have been too narrowly focused on farming. It calls for a more holistic approach that considers the entire food ecosystem, including the manufacturing,…
Retail sales in the UK saw a boost in August 2024, as warmer weather prompted shoppers to stock up on picnic and barbecue essentials, while also refreshing their wardrobes with summer clothing. This increase in spending lifted overall retail sales by 2.9% in the three months to August, up from the 2.6% recorded in July, according to figures released by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and KPMG.The report highlights that the surge in food purchases, particularly for outdoor gatherings, played a significant role in driving this growth. However, not all sectors benefited from this uplift. Non-food sales declined by 1.7%,…
