Our Ponderings on Veganuary and beyond

And we all thought cheese and wine parties were off the agenda for January, but it seems not. Never has there been more talk of BYOB and garden parties in the first month of the year, when Veganuary normally reigns supreme.

Which makes us ponder, is Veganuary dying a death? In a time when we’re all being prompted to consider our diets and the environmental impact we’re having with every meal we eat, do we really need a designated month to remind us of this – or are we all more versed with the idea of being food-aware than ever before? Business Leader explores both sides of the argument and Madeleine Howell looks at ‘regan’ eating.

 

What’s on the Rise & What’s on the Demise

On the Rise

Potato Milk, the latest development in plant-based milk could be set to rival oat milk in the popularity stakes this year. Swedish-based tech start-up DUG drinks currently have a monopoly on the market, but watch this space… 

According to The Co-ops Ethical Consumption Report, The Green Pound has doubled in value over the last ten years. Brands with ethical credentials are being noticed more than ever.

On the Demise

Traditional transactions between cashier and customer may have had their day. This month Aldi launched their first ‘Just walk out’ shopper technology joining the likes of Amazon Go in the whole new world of super convenience.

 

Shining a Spotlight on…

Tom Russell, Managing Director of The Food Incubator

The Food Incubator helps start-up food and drink businesses navigate their way to market, using their expertise and experience in thermal processing, helping to improve product safety and shelf life.

Tom has worked with some big names in the industry, from Shipton Mill, through to the Fabulous Baking Boys and was headhunted to run the Food Incubator. 

With Tom behind the reins, the company is bound to achieve big things in 2022. Keep an eye out for him at various industry events.

The Latests Movers & Shakers

The Selzer brand, Dash Water, has recently closed a new investment round and appointed David Milner as Chairman. David’s background includes Tyrells, Lily’s Kitchen and the St Pierre Groupe. 

Asda has a new Retail Director – Ken Towle – who replaces Derek Lawlor. He comes from Nisa.

 

Rather Dishy – Recipe of the Month

Roasted Red Pepper and Ricotta Calamartara Pasta

This vegetarian pasta dish from artisan Italian brand, Seggianio, is packed with flavour and is quick and easy to make. Just remember to don a bib, to avoid a saucy mess!

 

Say What?

The BuzzFeed Team has identified bacon and bananas as two of the weirdest, but tastiest food combinations that really work together. Go on, try it as an unusual brunch dish, we dare you… 

Until next month… 

The Food Marketing Experts Team