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We're celebrating the annual National Vegetarian Week (16-22 May) this week. Every year, The Vegetarian Society launches a dedicated campaign to encourage more people to reduce their meat consumption and spread awareness of climate change. As one of the best things we can do for our planet is to eat less meat, this year's campaign motto is:  "Choose veggie! Choose climate! Choose wildlife!"  It appears that more and more Brits are aware that their dietary choices matter not only for their health but also for the planet. According to a recent You Gov survey, more than a quarter of Brits (27%) are considering eating less meat – with health and climate change given as the main reasons to do so. For younger generations, the environment is even more critical. Half of the respondents (50%) under 34 years old said they were strongly motivated by climate change. More than a fifth of people (21%) who said they were considering reducing the amount of meat they eat gave animal welfare as their main reason.  A plant-based diet is better for the planet as it contributes significantly less to global warming. It produces a lot fewer carbon emissions than a diet that is rich in meat and dairy. A diet based on unprocessed whole foods is a healthier, more environmentally-friendly and more affordable option, especially for households on tight budgets. Climate change negatively influences wildlife and causes the risk of extinction for many species. The Vegetarian Society awareness campaign aims to educate that when you choose...

Gluten can be a pretty controversial topic these days. It can cause serious side effects in some individuals and as such, it gets a pretty bad reputation in the food world. You’ve probably seen most supermarkets, restaurants and other food joints will now have entirely gluten free selections.   But what exactly is gluten, and is it healthy, or something we should all be avoiding in our diets?   What is Gluten?   Gluten is a type of protein that is found in the wheat plant and some other grains. The gluten is actually a crucial part of the plant as it helps feed baby seedlings while they germinate. It is naturally occurring, but can be extracted, concentrated, and added to food and other products to add protein, texture, and flavour.   Gluten also works as a binding agent to give processed foods structure and help to hold together. When flour is mixed with liquid, the gluten proteins form a sticky connection that has a glue-like texture. This glue-like characteristic makes the dough elastic and gives bread and other baked goods the ability to rise during baking. It also provides a chewy, satisfying consistency.   Fun fact, it was actually given the name gluten due to the glue-like property of wet dough!   Foods Containing Gluten   When most people hear gluten, they mainly think of wheat or foods containing wheat. However, gluten can be found in a wide range of whole and processed foods, including:   Grains such as whole wheat, wheat bran, barley, rye, spelt, kamut, couscous, semolina, bulgur, durum, and wheat germ.   Processed grain-based products like crackers, bread, pasta, seitan, cookies, pastries, certain noodles, some veggie burgers along with other meat substitutes.   Other foods and beverages</str...

This simple chickpea salad makes a perfect side dish to most meals or as a tasty lunch or snack. Either way - CHICK it out!

Easy and quick buckwheat pancakes! A perfect healthy breakfast option for the whole family! 

Wondering what to eat to extend your lifespan and healthspan? For many years, scientists have been trying to understand what makes certain people live longer. The latest study was published in the journal CellTrusted Source. The team of scientists reviewed hundreds of studies to determine what foods are essential for human health and longevity.  What is a healthy diet?  The researchers found that diets with low meat and dairy and high in complex carbohydrates are the most beneficial for human health and long life. Growing evidence suggests that animal protein is not healthy for humans and therefore should be avoided and replaced by plant-based protein from legumes. A healthy diet should also include short periods of fasting. Also, in order to be the most beneficial, it should be tailored to everyone individually regarding their sex, age, and genetics. The researchers analysed hundreds of studies on nutrition, ageing, caloric restriction, nutrient response pathways, fasting and investigated different lifestyles and diets of centenarians.  They found that diets including mid-to-high levels of unrefined carbohydrates, a low but sufficient plant-based protein intake, and fish consumption were linked to good health and longevity.  <span class="c-mrkdwn__br" data-stringify-t...

We’ve had some questions and reviews from customers regarding how to cook our roasted buckwheat. Plus, what’s the difference between roasted and raw buckwheat? Well ask, and you shall surely receive! Keep on reading to find out how to make flawless Kasha.   What is Roasted Buckwheat?   Buckwheat is an ancient type of grain-like seed, also known as a pseudo cereal. It’s mainly harvested in China, Russia, and Europe. Despite its confusing name, it actually does not contain any wheat, and is therefore gluten free.   The roasted variety, also known as Kasha, has been prominent in Eastern European and Asian cuisine for centuries. However, it is now becoming more popular worldwide, in part due to its high mineral and antioxidant content. Buckwheat is also a great source of fibre and protein.   Kasha is brown in colour and has an earthier, nutty, and slightly more bitter flavour, which is stronger than raw buckwheat. It can be eaten as a snack, or used as a tasty alternative to couscous, bulgur wheat, rice, and pasta.   How to Cook   Firstly, what you need to know when it comes to cooking Kasha is it’s not the same as cooking raw buckwheat. Therefore, it does not need to be soaked or rinsed beforehand and does not need to be cooked as long either.   Here are the cooking instructions you need to make perfect Kasha, every time. This cooking method has been tried and tested by our Ukrainian staff member, where Kasha is considered a very popular cuisine and a diet staple.   Feel free to add some salt and butter or seasoning if you wish to bring out the flavours a bit more.     Add 2 cups of water per 1 cup of buckwheat. Bring to a boil over a medium heat. Reduce heat, cover, and let it cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the water evaporates.  Remove from boil...

We’ve all heard the classic saying that ‘Breakfast is the most important meal of the day’, but is there any truth to it? Well, some of the clue to why it’s touted as being so essential is in the name itself: it’s the way to break our overnight fast. But is skipping it really the dietary faux pas we’ve been led to believe?   Well, it turns out there’s many reasons why breakfast is such a significant mealtime. Many studies have shown that regularly eating a good breakfast is linked to better memory and focus, decreased ‘bad’ cholesterol, less risk of developing certain diseases, weight management and good health overall. So seems breakfast is rather beneficial, after all!   To help you out, we’ve made a list of healthy breakfast foods, which are mostly vegan friendly, and thrown in a few recipes if you’re needing some inspiration. Let’s get cracking!   Oats   Having oats for breakfast is one of the best ways you can start your day. They’re one of the healthiest grains on the planet, and are packed full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.   Oats are also rich in fibre, which keeps you feeling satiated for longer, whilst also lowering blood sugar and insulin response. This is particularly important in the morning, so you don’t start to crave unhealthy snacks or overeat later in the day.   Another great aspect of oats is that they’re easy to prepare and can be paired with basically anything. Make them sweet or savoury by including whatever toppings you heart desires.  For a slightly different take on traditional oatmeal, have a look at our Fruit &amp; Nut Overnight Oats .   Muffins   Muffins at first glance may not seem like the healthiest choice, however there’s still ways ...

The best way to start your day! These overnight oats are quick, easy, and OATally tasty. Plus, they're vegan friendly.  

  Psyllium husk is a naturally occurring, plant-derived source of fibre. It’s probably most well-known for its potential to improve digestive health and constipation by acting as a natural laxative.   But are there any other health benefits to gain from using psyllium husk? In this article, we will explore the story behind this seed, as well as its potential perks and any side effects.   What is Psyllium Husk?   Psyllium is a type of fibre that is made from the husks of the  Plantago ovata  plant’s seeds. It is also sometimes referred to by the name ispaghula. The plant is native to Asia and although most predominantly grown in India, it can still be found in other locations around the world.   It is a natural source of soluble fibre, similar to fibre found in grains such as oats and barley, however psyllium husk is naturally gluten free. This makes it perfect for anyone with coeliac disease or a gluten intolerance who is looking to increase their fibre intake. If you want to know why fibre is such a vital part of your diet, then have a read of Why is Fibre Important?   What is Psyllium Husk Used For?   Some people may require a fibre supplement such as psyllium to help with a range of health issues. Fibre slows digestion, allowing the body to absorb nutrients from your food as it passes through the stomach and intestines.   However, psyllium husk is most commonly used as a bulk forming laxative. In fact, it’s generally the main ingredient in many over-the-counter laxatives. As psyllium travels through digestive tract, it absorbs water in the intestines, expands, and helps create the formation of a gel-like stool that's softer and easy to pass.   Psyllium can eit...

Rustle up these lentil fritters in a flash! They're healthy, hearty and packed full of plant protein.  

You’ve probably already heard of the term ‘plant-based diet’, as it has taken the world by storm in recent years. Now, more than ever before, people are starting to move away from consuming meat and adopting a more plant-rich diet. What was once something that may have been considered a ‘niche’ or a ‘trend’, has now become a popular lifestyle choice.   Due to its increase in popularity and demand, you can now find a plant-based version of pretty much any food or drink your heart desires. If you go to your local supermarket they’ll generally be a wide variety of plant-based products available, and often a dedicated section. Restaurants, public events and even many fast food chains now have plant-based options on their menus.   However, deciding to switch over to a plant-based diet, or just incorporating more of it into your lifestyle can be difficult to navigate. But here at Wholefood Earth, we’re here to give you a helping hand.  So, if you want to know more about the plant-based diet, along with how transitioning can be beneficial for the environment and your health - then carry on reading!   What is a Plant-Based Diet?   A plant-based diet for beginners can be a great place to start if you’ve been considering eating less meat and are wanting to include more fruit, vegetables, and wholefoods into your diet.   Many people use the term “plant-based” to illustrate that they eat a diet that either entirely or mostly comprises of plant foods. Although, there are some people on a plant-based diet that may still eat certain animal-derived products. Being plant-based doesn’t mean that you are vegetarian or vegan and therefore do not eat any meat or dairy. Instead, it is more about choosing to source a higher proportion of your foods from plant sources.   Other people may use the phrase “whole foods, plant-based” to describe their diet, which differs slightly from ...

  Raisins. Those small but tasty fruits that are full of sweet and juicy flavour, in fact, one could describe them as nature’s very own candy! They are featured in many traditional British baking recipes, but can also be used in savoury dishes, along with being a quick and healthy snack.   But what even are they and are raisins any good for you? And what’s the difference between raisins and sultanas? Well, we have the answers for you right here in this very article. Read on raisin fans!   How Are Raisins Made?   Raisins are in fact dried grapes. The grapes can be dried either by the sun or by a mechanical process, which results in what we call, raisins. These dried fruits are produced and eaten all over the world. The drying process affects the shape, sizes, colours, and flavours.   You may wonder why it is then that raisins don’t actually taste like grapes, considering most dried fruits still taste like their fresh counterparts. This is possibly because the drying process concentrates the sugar content in the fruit.  As grapes ripen there is also a flavour progression.   Raisins probably came to exist entirely by accident. It is said they were likely discovered in prehistoric times when some grapes were accidentally left out and dried in the sun. Some curious growers decided to try the wrinkled fruit and enjoyed the sweetness of them - What a tasty mishap! Guess everything happens for a raisin 😉   Different Types of Raisins   There are many different varieties of raisins out there, but here are some of the most popular and well known types, and the differences between them -   Raisins   The most famous guys on this list are the standard raisin . They are a type of grape that has been dried for around three weeks. As ...

A simple and healthier alternative to a classic Easter treat! You can switch the cereal out for any of your choice, making this recipe gluten and vegan friendly.

These fruity and flavourful vegan hot cross buns are not just for Easter. They taste so good you'll be wanting to enjoy them year round!

It’s not long until the Easter bunny arrives, bringing eggs and Easter treats aplenty! 🐰   One of the most popular of these Easter foods tends to be chocolate. From chocolate eggs to chocolate cakes, if you’re a chocolate lover, then Easter is probably one of your favourite times of year.    However, we know not everyone can enjoy chocolate, whether it’s due to diet, allergies or just wanting to cut down on the sweet stuff. Plus, whilst it’s good to treat yourself every now and then, unfortunately most types of chocolate do not hold much nutritional value. You may be wondering, is there a healthier alternative?   Well here at Wholefood Earth, we’ve got your back, and have some chocolate substitutes that we’d like to suggest for when those sweet cravings come a-calling. That way you can still enjoy the chocolatey taste in a healthier way, and still indulge this Easter - let’s hop to it!   Cacao Nibs   Cacao nibs are produced from beans harvested from the  Theobroma cacao  tree, sometimes referred to as the cocoa tree. The cacao beans are dried, fermented, and heated at a low temperature. The heat helps in separating the fatty part of the bean.   They’re amongst the least processed cacao products and are considerably lower in sugar than other chocolate products, making them a healthier alternative for chocolate lovers. Due to their reduced sugar content, they’re not as sweet as cocoa and have a bitter, earthy taste, much like dark chocolate.   Cacao nibs are a great replacement for chocolate chips, meaning that they’re perfect for making all your favourite baked goods. You can also put them in smoothies, porridge, granola, or eat them on their own as a snack. They’re vegan friendly as well as being gluten-free.   They’re l...

  Dietary Fibre is an essential component of your diet. It helps keep your digestive system healthy, increases the good bacteria in your gut, and can even reduce the risk of certain diseases.   The recommended daily fibre intake for adults is approximately 25 grams for women, and 38 grams for men, per day. For a more in depth look at the reasons you need to be getting enough fibre in your diet, why not take a gander at our previous article Why is Fibre Important?   To make life easier, and make sure you’re hitting your RDA for fibre, we’ve compiled a handy list of some high fibre foods.  They’re not just great sources of fibre, but also healthy, tasty, and satisfying – so without further ado, let’s get on with the list!   Nuts   First up on the list, is the small but mighty nut! Not only are nuts nutritional powerhouses, they’re an excellent supply of fibre too.   Pine nuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, and pecans are all great choices when it comes to upping your daily fibre. However, almonds are the clear winner when it comes to the highest fibre content.   Fibre content:  Almonds – Approx. 13.3 grams per 100 grams   Popcorn   If you’re looking to increase your fibre intake, then  popcorn  just might be one of the best snacks you can choose to munch on.   Plain, air-popped popcorn is extremely high in fibre, calorie for calorie. Just remember, if you add a lot of sugar, or fat, such as oil, to your popcorn, the fibre-to-calorie ratio will be considerably lower.   Fibre ...

Fibre, we’re sure you’ve heard of it, and you might’ve also heard that you’re probably not getting enough of it, tut, tut . Luckily, it’s relatively easy to increase your daily fibre intake – simply add more high fibre foods to your diet.    But what exactly is fibre? And why is it so imperative to make sure we’re getting a sufficient amount in our diets?   Well, carry on reading to find out 😊 Plus, discover all the nutritional benefits of boosting your fibre intake - we promise it'll be a worthy cause!   What is Fibre?   Dietary fibre, which can also be referred to as bulk or roughage, is naturally found in plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, nuts and legumes. Fibre is actually a complex carbohydrate found in plant cells that cannot be digested or absorbed by the small intestine. Due to this, it is instead broken down inside the large intestine by bacteria for food. These non-digestible carbohydrates are collectively known as fibre.   There are many different types of fibre, and they have various health effects on our bodies. They are most often categorized as the following -   Soluble – Soluble types of fibre dissolve in your digestive system to form a gel-like substance, which is digested by friendly bacteria in the large intestine. Soluble fibre helps by softening stools, so they’re easier to pass. Insoluble - By contrast, insoluble fibre doesn’t dissolve in the gut and therefore cannot be digested. This means it adds bulk to your stools, making it easier for food to be steered through your digestive system. Resistant Starch - This type of starch is considered a fibre because it isn’t digested in your stomach or small intestine. It instead is developed into food for the friendly bacteria in your colon, improving gut health. It is said to bulk up stools, whi...

  The clocks are going forward this weekend and that means one less hour of precious sleep!   We’re sure you’ve heard before about how important it is to get a good night’s kip. Sleep is an essential function that allows your mind and body to recharge, as well as keeping yourself healthy and warding off diseases. However, as many of us know, sleeping well isn’t always an easy task.   Did you know that certain foods can also aid you in getting a restful night’s sleep? There are a variety of chemicals, enzymes, amino acids and other nutrients that can help in falling and staying asleep, and fortunately, you can find a lot of them in foods and drinks.   We want to make sure you’re getting the best sleep possible and have compiled a handy list of sleep inducing foods (plus one drink). So, if you’ve been having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, why not give these a try?   Almonds   Almonds are not only a nutritious and healthy snack, but it’s also claimed they may help in boosting sleep quality as well. This is because almonds contain the hormone melatonin, which regulates your internal clock and signals your body to prepare for sleep.   Almonds are also a great source of magnesium. Consuming an adequate amount of magnesium may improve sleep quality, especially for anyone suffering with insomnia. Magnesium’s role in promoting sleep is considered to be related to its ability to reduce inflammation. In addition, magnesium can assist in lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which is known to disturb your slumber.   For more health benefits of almonds, have a look at our previous article Are Almonds Good For You?   Oats   You may think of <...

Almonds are an extremely popular variety of nut, and it’s not very hard to see why!   Whether natural , blanched , or ground , they are incredibly tasty and incredibly versatile. Almonds can be eaten as a fun snack as well as an addition to sweet or savoury dishes. They can also be used to make oil, butter, flour and even milk. Is there no end to their talents?!   Almonds come from the fruit of the almond tree and although native to Iran, are mainly grown in California. Closely followed by traditional almond growers, Spain and Italy. The fruit, also known as a drupe, resembles a peach until it ripens and the outer covering, or hull, splits open, curls outward and releases the pit.   Almonds are often touted as one of the healthiest snacks and healthiest nuts, but how are they good for you? That’s the question we want to answer today, as we take you through the top health benefits of almonds - Let’s go nuts!   High in Minerals &amp; Nutrients   The first thing you need to know is that almonds are an excellent source of nutrients and minerals.   In a 28 gram serving (which is roughly equivalent to a handful) they contain the following -   Fibre: 3.5 g of Fibre Protein: 6 g of Protein Fat: 14 g (9g of which are monounsaturated) Vitamin E: 37% of the RDI Manganese: 32% of the RDI Magnesium: 20% of the RDI   They also hold a decent amount of copper, calcium, vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and phosphorus. Not bad for s...

Here at Wholefood Earth, we believe that no question is a silly question. For anyone wanting to know if there is any difference between soy and soya then we have the answer you seek!   The short but sweet answer is NO – Soy and Soya are exactly the same thing.   Both terms mainly refer to the bean (from which all soya products originate) which can also be called a soybean or soya bean. However, the only real difference is in the spelling. It tends to be referred to more as soy in the US, while here in Europe it is more widely known as soya.   No wonder it can get confusing! But we’re happy to set the record straight  😊   So now you have your answer, how about finding out Why Soya is a Great Meat Substitute?

  Did you know that soya is the cheapest and most widely eaten supply of plant protein on the planet?   Soya is an excellent source of protein, providing all nine of the essential amino acids we need for growth, repair and functions like immunity. It is also low in saturated fats and rich in fibre, it contains vital fatty acids plus a wide range of important vitamins and minerals. Plus, dishes that use soy as a substitute for meat often have fewer calories and less fat.   No wonder soya is a perfect meat replacement for vegetarians, vegans or anyone wanting a healthier alternative, or to eat more sustainably!   What is Soya?   Soya foods are made from the soya bean plant, which is native to China, it’s been a staple part of Asian diets for many years and is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. The beans extremely versatile texture makes it easy to be processed into a variety of foods including milk, soya protein, plus fermented foods such as tofu, miso and tempeh.    But we’re here today to talk to you about the wonderful world of soya meat replacements!   You may have heard soya meat substitutes referred to in many ways - Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP), Textured Soy Protein (TSP), Soya chunks and sometimes Soy meat. They are made the same way, from defatted soya flour which is created by removing the oil from the soybeans . The soybeans are ground into a fine flour, mixed with water, and then moulded into the preferred form - usually either mince or chunks.   As your one stop shop for organic wholefoods, we currently sell a range of soya products ...

  With spring just around the corner, it’s due to put many people in a happier mood. Longer daylight hours, better weather, and seeing flowers bloom again after a long, cold winter can put a real spring in your step!   But did you know the food you eat can also affect your mood? We know that food can have an effect on your physical health but recently, more studies on the relationship between mental health and nutrition have been emerging.   When you’re feeling down or after a stressful day it’s tempting to indulge by reaching for fast food or a sugary treat to comfort yourself and lift your spirits. But many of these type of foods can actually cause the opposite and have a negative effect on your mood.   Read on to find out how food impacts your mood and what you should be consuming to maintain not just your physical health, but your mental health too.   Eat Regularly   We’re sure you’ve heard the phrase ‘breakfast is the most important meal of the day’ – and there’s a lot of truth to it! Eating a balanced breakfast on a daily basis can improve your mood, memory, and energy throughout the day.   If you’ve ever missed breakfast, you may have noticed yourself feeling more tired and grumpy throughout the day. This is because a drop in your blood sugar may leave you feeling tired, agitated and depressed. That’s why it’s best to start the day off right with a wholesome breakfast and continuing to eat regularly throughout the day, keeping your blood sugar and energy levels stable.   Stay Hydrated   Did you now that the human brain is comprised of around 75% water? Given that fact, it makes sense how important it is to keep yourself adequately hydrated throughout the day.   Studies have shown that even mild dehydration can have a sign...

What is Sodium Bicarbonate?   Sodium Bicarbonate , more popularly known as Baking Soda or Bicarbonate of Soda, is most well known as a pure leavening agent. It’s a chemical compound that is technically classified as a type of salt that is crystalline, but usually appears as a fine white powder. Sodium bicarbonate has a slightly salty, alkaline taste to it that somewhat resembles washing powder.   Although its name may imply this product is used solely as a baking ingredient - that could not be further from the truth! Sodium Bicarbonate can be used for a whole host of things, from an ingredient to a medicine, to a cleaning product and even a bath bomb - it has so many benefits!   Sodium Bicarbonate Uses   Here at Wholefood Earth, we have compiled a handy list of just some of its many uses, so you can discover why you need this multi-purpose product in your life 😊   Baking   Sodium bicarbonate is probably most commonly known for being a rising agent in baking, hence the alternate name - baking soda. Sodium bicarbonate becomes activated when it’s combined with both an acidic ingredient (such as lemon juice or buttermilk) and a liquid. Once it is activated, it produces carbon dioxide which allows the batter to rise and gives baked goods such as bread, cakes, cookies, and muffins a light, fluffy texture. Yummy!   Multi-purpose Cleaner   After baking, cleaning is probably considered the next most popular use for sodium bicarbonate. From descaling kettles and cleaning silverware to unblocking drains and neutralizing any unsavoury odours around the home – sodium bicarbonate does it all!   If you want to use it for cleaning, just mix a paste of so...

Sunflower seeds are technically the fruits that come from the head of the sunflower plant, also known as Helianthus annuus. The term "sunflower seed" is actually a misnomer, as the dehulled seed would actually be called the kernel, or heart.   These kernels need to be dehulled from their shells before they are considered edible.   Despite their small size, sunflower seeds are packed full of important vitamins, minerals and nutrients, as well as bringing a healthy source of essential fatty acids. Sunflower seeds are also an excellent plant-based protein source for anyone on a vegetarian or vegan diet.   In this article, we’re taking your through six highlights of the great health benefits that sunflower seeds provide - and why they’re the seeds, that you need!     May Improve Heart Health   Some studies have shown that people with a higher risk of heart problems who regularly ate sunflower seeds retained better heart health over those who did not. Sunflower seeds are rich in ‘healthy’ fats, including monounsaturated fat and polyunsaturated fat. Unlike saturated fat, moderate unsaturated fat consumption has shown to actually improve one's heart health. Sunflower seeds also contain magnesium, potassium and fibre which lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. All of these effects can help to defend the body from cardiovascular disorders.   Can Reduce Inflammation   For people suffering with chronic or long-term inflammation, sunflower seeds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory benefits. The health benefits of sunflower seeds include vitamin E, flavonoids, along with other plant compounds that can help in reducing inflammation. Studies have found that eating sunflower...