The Latest News from the Quality Food Awards


Vertical farming rebounds with tech-driven firms leading recovery in 2025

Industry News
Vertical Farming

After a period of high-profile collapses, vertical farming is stabilising in 2025, with companies like Bowery Farming and Intelligent Growth Solutions expanding through advanced automation and international partnerships amid ongoing cost and scalability challenges.

Aldi boosts SME apprenticeships with extra £2 million funding

Industry News
Aldi Apprenticeships

Aldi has pledged an additional £2 million to support small and medium-sized enterprises through its apprenticeship levy gifting scheme, bringing total investment to £5.5 million by 2027 and aiming to expand job opportunities across multiple sectors.

Carlsberg Britvic and others launch innovative snacks and drinks in UK market

Industry News
innovation New Product Launch Snacks Soft Drinks

Carlsberg Britvic reintroduces Tango Blast with new flavours and larger bottles, while brands like Happiee, Nashi Pear Juice, Ginsters, and others unveil innovative snacks and drinks targeting convenience, health, and dietary trends across UK retailers.

Red Tractor proposes tiered welfare labels to simplify UK pig meat standards

Industry News
Pork Animal welfare Red Tractor

Red Tractor’s Pigs Sector Board has launched a consultation on introducing two voluntary welfare tiers for pig meat, aiming to simplify consumer choices, reduce audit costs, and support industry-led welfare improvements including flexible farrowing systems.

Cardiff launches AI-driven trial to reward recycling of paper cups

Industry News
packaging sustainability Recycling Wales

A pioneering three-month trial using AI image recognition rewards consumers 5p for recycling paper cups at major outlets. Supported by the National Cup Recycling Scheme, Keep Wales Tidy, and the Bower app, it aims to tackle the UK's 2.5 billion single-use cup waste challenge through collaboration and technology.

THIS™ launches innovative plant-based protein range in UK supermarkets

Industry News
Vegan Grocery Retail

THIS™ launches new Super Superfood introduces a new plant-based protein range featuring a Super Block and Marinated Pieces, rich in fava bean protein and enhanced with seeds and mushrooms. Launching in major supermarkets from late April, the products offer higher protein and versatile flavors.

Global vegan cheese market set to grow to nearly $900 million by 2029

Industry News
Vegan Trends Cheese

The vegan cheese market, valued at $685.61 million in 2023, is projected to reach $897.98 million by 2029, driven by rising vegan diets, health concerns, and environmental awareness, with advances in product quality and expanding global market presence.

European Space Agency launches pioneering lab-grown food experiment in orbit

Industry News
High Protein Lab-grown

The European Space Agency has launched a groundbreaking experiment to grow lab-grown food in space using a mini bioreactor aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9. Aiming to reduce costs and support future deep space missions, the project explores producing protein-rich food for astronauts, with plans for onboard manufacturing and diverse cuisine development.

French startup partners with Bel Group to transform dairy waste

Industry News
sustainability Dairy

French startup Standing Ovation has joined forces with Bel Group to develop innovative applications for whey waste, aiming to transform acid whey into high-value protein while addressing environmental concerns and enhancing the circular economy in the dairy sector.

Seafood industry adapts to pandemic challenges with innovative strategies

Industry News
Seafood

Seafood chefs and businesses have transformed their operations during the Covid-19 pandemic, moving towards online sales and direct supply from fishermen. Notable examples include Mitch Tonks and Mike Warner, who adapted to changing consumer demands and aimed for sustainable practices in the industry.

The rise of pickling and fermentation in British cuisine

Industry News
Trends

The enduring tradition of pickling and fermentation is gaining popularity in Britain, championed by Nick Vadasz, founder of Vadasz Pickles. In his debut cookbook, The Pickle Jar, Vadasz offers accessible recipes and shares the emotional ties to food from his family's history.

Delice de France launches 42 new products for spring/summer 2025

Industry News
NPD Delice de France

Delice de France unveils its Spring/Summer 2025 range, featuring 42 new products including pastries, breads, and drinks. The catalogue emphasises flavour trends and partnerships, catering to the evolving needs of trade partners and food businesses with innovative offerings for diverse cuisines.

The rise of vegan seafood alternatives in the plant-based market

Industry News
Plant-based Vegan

The plant-based food industry evolves with an array of innovative vegan seafood products, from crab cakes to sushi-grade tuna. Brands like Gardein and Konscious Foods lead the way, appealing to consumers seeking meat alternatives while benefiting marine life and addressing overfishing issues.

The rise of spicy flavours in food and beverages

Industry News
Trends

The food industry is witnessing a spike in spicy flavour preferences, influencing snacks, beverages, and desserts. Brands are launching bold combinations, from spicy sodas to chilli-infused ice creams, reflecting a growing consumer desire for products with a kick across various sectors.

Florette expands salad offerings with new spicy and Caesar options

Industry News
sustainability Environment Salad

Florette aims to strengthen its position in the UK fresh salad market with two new products, Spicy Salad and Caesar Salad, launching in 2025. These innovative offerings target health-conscious consumers while prioritising sustainability and robust marketing strategies to boost demand.

Confectionery brands innovate packaging to meet consumer demands

Industry News
packaging Confectionery

Confectionery brands are leveraging innovative packaging to address supply chain challenges and connect with consumers. As sustainability and health-awareness trends rise, brands like Skittles and Kinder are adopting new strategies to enhance convenience and appeal, while maintaining regulatory compliance.

New vertical farm opens in London's Canada Water area

Industry News
Farm

A pioneering vertical farm by Harvest London has opened at Corner Corner, a food and cultural hub, showcasing transparent farming practices and engaging the community with real-time food production. This initiative aims to redefine urban living through agriculture, education, and sustainability.

UK consumer spending trends show mixed signals amidst rising costs

Industry News
Trends

Research from Barclays reveals mixed signals in consumer spending, with a modest overall increase despite pressures from rising costs. While discretionary spending remains strong, essential expenditures are declining as many consumers tighten their budgets in response to economic uncertainties.

Pulse flour market poised for significant growth by 2035

Industry News
Free-from

The pulse flour market is forecasted to grow from USD 24.7 billion in 2025 to USD 67.5 billion by 2035, driven by rising consumer demand for gluten-free and health-focused products, with notable contributions from the US, UK, Germany, and China.

Chocolate prices soar as cocoa harvest fails

Industry News
Chocolate

The rising cost of chocolate bars, driven by a significant drop in cocoa production and soaring prices, poses challenges for both consumers and farmers, who face sustainability issues amidst climate change and market pressures. Experts warn that prices are likely to rise further before stabilising.

Study questions classification of plant-based proteins and their health implications

Industry News
Plant-based

A study from the University of Turku critiques existing food classification systems, suggesting they misrepresent plant-based proteins as unhealthy. Researchers highlight the nutritional benefits of these foods, particularly through fermentation, urging a reevaluation of how processing impacts health outcomes.

Navigating the hurdles of new product launches in the food industry

Industry News
NPD Product launch

The food and beverage sector is facing significant challenges in new product development due to rising costs, regulatory pressures, and fierce competition. Experts stress the importance of aligning teams and focusing on consumer needs to ensure successful launches amid these obstacles.

Sustainable food innovations make headlines across multiple sectors

Industry News
sustainability

Recent developments in the sustainable food sector highlight new products and collaborations, including the launch of plant-based options by renowned brands. Notable partnerships and product entries signify a growing trend towards meat alternatives, alongside challenges faced by the vegan restaurant industry.

Alternative protein market set for significant growth by 2032

Industry News
Protein

The alternative protein market is projected to reach USD 55.01 billion by 2032, driven by urbanisation and consumer interest in sustainability. Plant-based proteins will dominate, while insect proteins are anticipated to grow the fastest amidst challenges like production scalability and regulatory barriers.

Mumsnet launches family-friendly ready meals in collaboration with Iceland Foods

Grocery retail Industry News
Iceland Ready Meals

Mumsnet has partnered with multi Quality Food Award-winners Iceland Foods to introduce Little Explorer, a range of nutritious ready meals designed for children. The five meal options focus on health and convenience, aiming to support families while contributing to Alder Hey children's hospital.

Waitrose introduces new chicken welfare standard as Co-op refurbishes local stores

Industry News
co-op Waitrose Grocery Retail

Waitrose has launched a new Better Chicken Welfare Standard, the first in the UK to exceed the Better Chicken Commitment. Meanwhile, the Co-op has refurbished local stores to enhance shopping experiences and promote sustainability, reflecting significant trends in the UK grocery sector.

Brakes launches extensive 'Ways to Save' programme for food businesses

Industry News
foodservice Brakes Sysco

Brakes has unveiled its 'Ways to Save' programme, offering substantial cashback on over 500 products to support food businesses facing financial challenges. The initiative aims to provide immediate relief and practical assistance, ensuring independent companies can navigate rising costs effectively amidst a tough economic environment.

New £1.4 million innovation hub set to enhance food safety and regulation

Industry News
innovation

The Food Standards Agency has secured £1.4 million to create an innovation hub aimed at regulating advanced food technologies, particularly precision fermentation, enhancing safety and providing clearer guidelines for the industry while supporting broader innovation in the food sector.

Alpro invests in UK oat drink market with new product from British oats

Industry News
British Free-from Oats

Alpro, part of Danone, announces a substantial investment to introduce a UK-made oat drink using 100% British oats, responding to rising consumer demand. This initiative aims to enhance sustainability and support local farmers, with plans for 58 million litres of production annually.

The rise of alcohol-free beverages and their functional benefits

Industry News
Alcohol-free Beverages

The alcohol-free beverage market is transforming, with 4% annual growth projected by 2028. Brands like Kin Euphorics and Katy Perry's De Soi are innovating with functional ingredients to provide social and relaxation benefits without the drawbacks of alcohol consumption.

Agrifood corporations join forces in regenerative agriculture pilot programme

Industry News
sustainability

McCain Foods, McDonald’s, and Waitrose & Partners are participating in a new initiative, “Routes to Regen,” launched by King Charles III’s Sustainable Markets Initiative, aimed at supporting UK farmers in transitioning to sustainable practices through collaborative efforts and financial support through 2025.

ONE SeedPod food and drink innovation hub officially launched in Aberdeen

Industry News
innovation Scotland

The ONE SeedPod innovation hub has launched, representing a £27 million investment aimed at boosting high-value manufacturing in Scotland's food and drink sector. With significant support from both public and private sectors, the hub is poised to foster innovation and drive economic growth in the region.

Britain's cheese preferences shift towards stronger Cheddar varieties

Industry News
Cheese

A recent report shows an increasing demand for stronger Cheddar varieties in Britain, with vintage and extra mature types gaining popularity. This shift is attributed to changing palates influenced by the incorporation of spicier foods into British diets, according to industry experts and sales data.

Dehydrated vegetable market projected for substantial growth by 2035

Industry News
Trends

The global market for dehydrated vegetables is set to grow from USD 88.2 billion in 2025 to USD 192.1 billion by 2035, driven by consumer demand for healthier options, advanced manufacturing technologies, and sustainability practices in food production.

The rise of olive oil gifting in Britain

Industry News
Olive Oil

A new trend emerges in British social gatherings, with hosts receiving extra virgin olive oil as a preferred gift over wine or chocolates, driven by a Waitrose report. This shift reflects changing dining customs and consumer preferences, alongside growing interest in food quality and health benefits.

Survey reveals shift in UK adults' ultra-processed food consumption

Industry News
UPF

A new survey indicates that 31% of UK adults have reduced ultra-processed food intake, with half actively avoiding them. The findings reveal a growing health consciousness and highlight the need for better consumer education regarding the complexities of food classifications.

Private-label brands surge as grocery shoppers prioritise quality and value

Industry News
Own Label Grocery Retail Private label

Private-label brands are exceeding national brands in both sales and consumer preference, driven by economic pressures and a shift in perceptions towards quality and value, according to industry experts. This trend is reshaping customer loyalty and retailer strategies.

EU researchers launch initiative to enhance seafood transparency

Industry News
sustainability Seafood

A collaborative project funded by the European Union aims to improve consumer understanding of seafood origins, with a focus on transparency in supply chains and sustainable sourcing preferences, amidst declining consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation challenges.

Wales embraces sustainable food packaging in major stadiums

Industry News
packaging sustainability

Three major stadiums have adopted Notpla's seaweed-based packaging to combat single-use plastics, aiming to eliminate 750,000 items from the waste stream. This initiative supports Wales’ broader goal of reducing plastic waste and is projected to prevent 1.4 tonnes of plastic and 14.2 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.

Lidl makes history as first UK supermarket to sell on TikTok Shop

Industry News
Grocery Retail High Protein

Lidl has launched a new online shopping initiative on TikTok Shop, offering £30 product bundles for just £5. Proceeds will support NSPCC. The move highlights Lidl's commitment to appealing to digital-savvy customers and the growing demand for high-protein food options.

Waitrose commits to humane slaughter of king prawns

Industry News
Animal rights Waitrose

In a major shift for animal welfare standards, Waitrose announces its commitment to humane slaughter practices for king prawns, following calls from animal rights advocates.

Booker launches new product development guide for retailers

Industry News
Booker NPD Wholesale

Booker has unveiled a comprehensive new product development guide featuring over 125 products across various categories, including seasonal items and exclusive offerings. Retail managing director Colm Johnson highlights the guide's role in supporting independent retailers and enhancing their product selections.

Bramble Foods Group acquires Whitakers Chocolates

Industry News
Aquisitions Chocolate

Bramble Foods Group has acquired Whitakers Chocolates, a historic family-run chocolatier, enhancing its product range in the UK market. This strategic move highlights a long-standing partnership and commitment to maintaining quality and tradition within both businesses as they aim for future growth.

UK shoppers embrace store-brand products as sales hit record high

Industry News
Booker M&S Own Label

The latest statistics reveal UK store-brand sales reached a record £220 billion last year, marking an increase of over £7 billion increase. This growth surpasses that of national brands, reflecting a shift in consumer preference towards affordable, high-quality private label products during the inaugural Store Brands Month.

Sodexo's Sustainable Food Barometer reveals consumer attitudes in the UK

Sustainability
Industry News

Sodexo UK's latest Sustainable Food Barometer shows strong consumer interest in nutritious, sustainable meals, with 68% viewing such food positively. However, affordability, taste, and health remain top priorities, indicating foodservice providers must innovate to meet evolving consumer demands and expectations for sustainable dining options.

Foodbuy Group emerges as the largest group purchasing organisation in the UK

Foodservice
Industry News

Compass Group UK & Ireland announces the formation of Foodbuy Group, consolidating its procurement divisions and creating the largest group purchasing organisation in the sector, with over £2 billion purchasing power. This strategic move aims to enhance operational efficiency, value, and job creation across foodservice industries.

Savour the Dates: 2025 food industry dates for your diary

Key Dates

The food industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving space, filled with exciting festivals, events, and celebrations happening throughout the year. To help you stay ahead and never miss a key moment, we’ve created a comprehensive calendar packed with major food events, religious festivals and exclusive Quality Food Awards dates.

The evolving landscape of specialty coffee: Balancing automation and artistry

Coffee
Industry News

As automation transforms the specialty coffee industry, roasters strive to combine modern technology with traditional artistry. Potterbeans exemplifies this balance, utilising wood roasting methods while embracing advancements to maintain craft authenticity amidst increasing consumer demand for premium artisanal products.

Shoppers warned about potential avocado shortages in the UK

Grocery retail
Industry News Avocado

Supermarkets may face avocado shortages due to climate change and logistical issues. The demand for avocados is straining local ecosystems, particularly water resources, prompting concerns over sustainability and future availability of this popular fruit.

The health benefits of plant-based meat alternatives in the UK and Ireland

Food Trends
Health Plant-based Vegan

Recent studies reveal that plant-based meat alternatives could help combat health issues linked to diets high in red and processed meats. Despite a decline in sales, there is potential for nutritional innovation in this sector, aiming to improve dietary habits in the UK and Ireland.

Grocery retailers embrace familiar themes in Christmas advertising

Grocery retail
Industry News

The UK grocery retail sector has been notably prominent in this year's Christmas advertising landscape, with Aldi, Sainsbury’s, and Lidl leading the charge in the festive season's advertising efforts. System1, a marketing effectiveness platform, has conducted an analysis revealing that 2024 marks one of the most consistent years for Christmas advertising, with brands reaping benefits by leveraging familiar assets.

2024 WINNERS REVEALED!

This year, to mark 45 years of the Quality Food Awards, we returned to an in-person awards event where we unveiled our 2024 winners!

Happy Diwali! A Celebration of light, tradition, and flavour

Diwali

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated worldwide by millions who come together to mark the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Central to these festivities is food—a beautiful expression of culture, family, and joy. At the Quality Food Awards, we honour these traditions and celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Diwali.

QsCast | Episode 4: Menopause Matters - how diet can make a difference

QsCast
Podcast Menopause

Our latest episode of QsCast is hosted by the Quality Food Awards Brand Director, Beth Treleaven. In this episode, Beth is joined by Fiona Staunton - owner of Fiona's Food For Life and one of our longest-standing Irish Quality Food and Drink Awards judges.

World Porridge Day

National/International Day
Porridge Shorlist

In this article, we’ll explore the significance of World Porridge Day, how you can get involved, and which companies from our 2024 shortlist are contributing to the movement for better nutrition with their quality oat and porridge products.

Morrisons to launch British farm bus tour

Grocery retail
Industry News

Morrisons introduces a novel initiative allowing customers to experience farm operations and learn about sustainable practices, enhancing the connection between consumers and food producers.

QsCast | Episode 2: Innovating Food | Simon Wright & Charles Banks

QsCast
Podcast

In our second episode of QsCast, Chair of Judges Simon Wright is joined by Charles Banks of thefoodpeople. Together they discuss what it means to be innovative in the ever-evolving UK food industry and what our judging panel look for when judging how innovative a food product is.

Small Producer/Winner Spotlight: Ambry

case study
case study winner

Meet Sandra, Farhad and Elliot - co-founders of Ambry - the Small Producer that won Product of the Year AND Small Producer of the Year in 2023!

Small Producer Spotlight: Dapur Mariae

Small Producer case study
case study winner

Introducing Mariae Hackett - Co-Founder/Owner of multi-award winning Malaysian cooking sauce brand Dapur Mariae.

Winner spotlight: Good Grain Bakery

case study
case study winner

Meet Tara  - Founding Director of multi-award winning, gluten-free, BRC and organic-accredited Good Grain Bakery.

Winner spotlight: Creative Nature

case study
case study winner
Introducing Julianne Ponan - Founder/CEO of multi-award winning, top 14 allergen-free brand, Creative Nature.

Elevating Your Brand: A Guide to Launching Food and Drink Products in the Travel Industry

ARTICLES Guest Blog
Travel Industry

In an era where travel is not just a means to an end but an integral part of the experience, the food and drink served on airlines, trains, cruises, and in airport lounges play a pivotal role in shaping passengers' journeys. For food and drink brands, breaking into the travel industry can be a golden ticket to elevating brand visibility and tapping into a global market...

Happy Earth Day

National Day
Environment

The mission behind Earth Day is to diversify, educate and activate the environmental movement worldwide. Here at the Qs, we don't blind-taste our entrants' products - we take it into consideration when you have been mindful of your carbon footprint when producing your product and its packaging…

So What’s Wrong With Ultra Processed Foods?

ARTICLES Guest Blog
ULTRA-PROCESSED FOODS UPF

So What’s Wrong With Ultra Processed Foods? Chief Judge of the Quality Food Awards and founder of OF+ Consulting, Simon Wright, sheds some light on what the term means and why the public are somewhat confused.

2024 entries are now open!

General
Entries

We are delighted to announce that entries into the 2024 Quality Food Awards are officially OPEN! To celebrate 45 years of the Qs, we have some exciting news for you…

Veganuary Inspiration

QFA23

We've put together a list of our judges' top vegan products 2023 so you can embrace, and enjoy, Veganuary this year!

Food and Drink Trends 2024/25

QFA23

There is one week to go until thousands of industry influencers from across the globe gather under a virtual "roof" for our Partner thefoodpeople's 10th Annual Food & Beverage Trend Summit...

2023 virtual Awards Ceremony details revealed

QFA23

After the immense success of this format during the pandemic, we are thrilled to announce that attendees from all corners of the UK can join the festivities from the comfort of their homes.

Entries are open for the Performance Awards!

QFA23

Entries for this year's Performance Awards are now open! The 2023 Performance Awards are completely free to enter, or nominate a company or colleague, and are a fantastic way to recognise the individuals and teams behind the scenes of food and drink brands here in the UK.

Happy Global Milk Day!

QFA23

Celebrating World Milk Day: The Importance of the Dairy Industry across the UK and the UK Quality Food Awards

17 years in food and beverage trends

QFA23

Join our partners, thefoodpeople, in their mission to shift food, health and education for the next generation with their brand new e-book, ‘17 Years in Food & Beverage Trends’.

Winner Success Story: Julienne Bruno

QFA23

Introducing the brand behind the excellent dairy-free Burella (vegan burrata) Julienne Bruno: Winner of the Dairy Free Cheese & Spread category in the 2022 Quality Food Awards...

Featured Category: Pastries

QFA23

This is an award that recognises excellent pastries on sale for consumers to purchase here in the UK...

Featured Category: Cheese

QFA23

Divided into 3 sub-categories, this is an award that recognises excellent cheeses on sale in Ireland for consumers to purchase here in the UK...

What we learnt from IFE 2023

QFA23

This year we are proud to continue our partnership with IFE (International Food & Drink Event). We attended a number of sessions across the three days, and have collated our key takeaways from IFE - in case you missed it!