News & Views

As we head into 2026, the UK food scene is gearing up for an exciting year of innovation, comfort, and cultural exploration. From adventurous global flavours to health-conscious menus and eye-catching dishes designed for sharing (and social media), consumer tastes continue to evolve — driven by wellness priorities, economic pressures, and a hunger for memorable eating experiences. Here’s what food lovers and hospitality professionals can expect on plates and in cups across the UK.

January can often feel like a challenge. The festive buzz is over, the days are short and cold, and many of us are struggling to find energy and motivation. But did you know that what you eat can make a real difference to your mood? Science shows a strong connection between food, gut health and brain chemistry, so choosing the right ingredients can help lift your spirits, support energy levels, and keep you feeling balanced through these January weeks.

As another busy year comes to an end, we just wanted to say a huge thank you to everyone we’ve worked with over the past year and to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

When you’re seeking a consultancy partner who can truly support your catering, hospitality, and facilities management challenges, Red Box is here to help. Whether you operate in schools, universities, retail, leisure, or industrial sites, the range of services we provide ensures you have a trusted advisor to guide you every step of the way.

In recent years, veganism and plant-based eating have surged in popularity across the UK. Supermarkets stocked aisles with meat alternatives, and restaurants added vegan dishes to their menus, catering not only to vegans but also to the growing number of flexitarians. However, despite the continued growth of the plant-based market, many UK supermarkets and brands are now reducing their range of highly processed vegan options. What’s driving this change, and what does it mean for the future of vegan food?

At Red Box, we know that the most effective systems rely on skilled, confident teams. Beyond the consultancy services we provide, our tailored training programs equip your team to deliver consistent, high-quality service across the catering, hospitality, and facilities management sectors.

As the UK settles into the colder, and generally wetter, months from December through February, our fields, markets, and kitchen gardens still offer a rich selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Embracing winter produce not only adds warmth and depth to your meals but also supports sustainable practices and local farming communities.

Each year, around 2.4 million people in the UK fall ill with food poisoning. Yet with just a few key habits around cooking, storing, and reheating, you can protect yourself - and still enjoy what’s on your plate.

Across the globe, food lovers cherish regional specialties that have been perfected over centuries, celebrating their unique qualities deeply rooted in local traditions, climate, and craftsmanship. And just as the UK protects its iconic Cheddar cheese, Cornish pasties, and clotted cream, the world has a rich variety of foods granted protected status that each country prides over. But what is ‘protected status’, why does it matter, and which countries have the most protected foods?

As the UK moves into the cooler months from September through November, our gardens and markets offer a new array of rich, hearty produce. Embracing the best of the season not only adds warmth and depth to your meals but also supports local growers and encourages more sustainable eating habits.