Edition 32
March 2025

 
 
 
 
 

Sowing Seeds of Possibility: Embracing Growth and New Beginnings

By Shola Oladipo, Food for Purpose CEO 

Dear Readers,

I hope this edition finds you well!

As March arrives, nature reminds us that growth is all around us. As the days grow longer and the buds begin to bloom, we are surrounded with possibilities. It’s a season that invites us to open our minds to new ideas, new experiences, and new ways of nourishing both our bodies and our lives.

At Food for Purpose, we believe growth doesn’t happen by standing still - it comes from planting seeds of curiosity and stepping outside our comfort zones. Whether it’s trying a new ingredient, exploring a healthier way to prepare a favourite dish, or learning more about where our food comes from, small changes can yield big rewards. It’s also possible that you’re thinking about changing your current activity or exercise routine.

Just like a seed needs time and care to flourish, every step we take toward healthier choices adds up, creating a future full of vitality and well-being.

This month, we encourage you to embrace the spirit of renewal. Be open to discovering new foods, experimenting with fresh flavours, and finding creative ways to bring more nourishment into your life. Perhaps it’s swapping refined flour for a lower glycaemic alternative, adding more fresh vegetables to your meals, or even growing your own herbs and produce at home. These small choices not only support your health but also help preserve cultural food traditions in a modern, sustainable way.

For generations, food has been more than sustenance - it’s been a way to connect with others, pass down knowledge, and celebrate identity. In African and Caribbean communities, this connection is woven into every dish, from the vibrant spices of a hearty stew to the fresh greens harvested from a backyard garden. Yet, in today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose touch with these roots. Growing your own food - even something as simple as a pot of thyme or a few tomato plants - can be a powerful way to reconnect with those traditions. It’s a reminder that food doesn’t have to be complicated to be nourishing, and that the freshest, most flavourful ingredients are often the ones we grow ourselves.

Of course, growth isn’t just about what we put on our plates, it’s also about how we approach life. This season, challenge yourself to be more open to new possibilities, whether that’s learning a new skill, starting a new project, or having a conversation that deepens your understanding of the world around you. Growth often happens when we least expect it, and even the smallest steps can lead to profound changes.

So as the world begins to bloom around us, let’s embrace the spirit of growth - planting seeds of possibility in our lives, our kitchens, and our communities. After all, the future is full of potential. All it takes is the courage to begin.

Blessings & peace,

Shola

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

  • Health Equity Community Forum

    • Our CEO was invited to the Health Equity Community Forum on 29th January to share how work intersects the importance of faith beliefs, cultural traditions and health. She expanded on why our church-based health interventions are relevant and impactful.

  • The Broken Plate Report

    • The Food Foundation's latest report, The Broken Plate 2025, reveals the stark reality of the UK’s food system. Healthier foods are more than twice as expensive per calorie as unhealthy ones, and low-income families are hit the hardest, some would need to spend up to 70% of their disposable income to afford a healthy diet.

      It’s an eye-opening read, packed with insights on food affordability, accessibility, and what needs to change. Take a look and see why fixing our food system matters:
      Read the full report here.

  • Black Health Inequalities Summit

    • Members of the FFP team will be attending the London Inspire Black Health Inequalities Summit on 26 March 2025, at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre in London. The event, organised by the London Inspire Programme and the Caribbean & African Health Network (CAHN), will bring together healthcare professionals, community leaders and researchers to look at ways to address health inequalities affecting Black communities. The summit will include speakers from Black Caribbean and African communities, sharing their experiences and working towards practical solutions.

National Days / Weeks / Month - March 2025

 
 
 
 
 
 

Beyond BMI: What Really Defines Fitness?

By Precious Oladipo
FFP Director & Physical Activity Lead

For many years, BMI (Body Mass Index) has served as a reliable way to measure health, but it’s not without its flaws. When it comes to fitness however, it's important to recognise that it is far more than just a number on a chart. It’s about how you feel, how you move, and how well your body functions. Even if you're considered “overweight” by BMI standards, you can still be strong, active, and vibrant!

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and overall wellbeing matter so much more than just a simple weight-to-height equation. In fact, research shows that individuals who consistently engage in physical activity (no matter their BMI) often enjoy better heart health, stronger muscles, and lower risks of chronic illnesses.

Weight alone doesn’t paint the complete picture. Factors like muscle mass, genetics, and body composition play significant roles in your overall health too. Someone with a higher BMI who exercises regularly and eats well may actually be much healthier than someone with a lower BMI who leads a sedentary lifestyle and has poor eating habits.

The focus should be on long-term habits that nurture your body instead of worrying about an arbitrary number. Rather than becoming fixated on weight, concentrate on what truly matters:

- Are you nourishing your body with wholesome foods?

- Are you moving in ways that bring you joy?

- Are you prioritising sleep and managing stress?

If the answer is yes, then you are definitely on the right path! Health is unique for everyone, and it’s time to redefine fitness by looking beyond outdated numbers. So, keep fuelling your body, staying active, and celebrating your strength, because fitness truly comes in all shapes and sizes!

 
 
 
 
 
 

Coleslaw

Coleslaw is such a versatile dish that's super quick and easy to whip up! It pairs beautifully with so many meals. You'll love our adapted version of this popular recipe, which is not only low in fat but also packed with fibre!

Serves 4-6

Preparation time: 20-30 minutes

Cook time: no cooking time required

Total time: 20-30 minutes


Ingredients

  • 1/2 red cabbage, thinly grated or shredded

  • 1/2 white cabbage, thinly grated or shredded

  • 3 medium carrots, grated

  • 1 medium white onion, finely chopped

  • 3 tablespoons low-fat mayonnaise

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 5 tablespoons desiccated coconut

  • 1 lime (remove seeds)

Method

  1. Mix all the ingredients together in bowl

  2. Juice the lime into the bowl and stir the mixture thoroughly

  3. Coleslaw is ready to serve

 
 
 
 
 
 

Elderflower

This month, we are celebrating Elderflower for the letter E!

Elderflower / berry or Elder

Elderflowers and elderberries come from the elder tree, which is native to Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. The delicate white elderflowers and deep purple elderberries have been prized for centuries for their culinary, medicinal, and cultural significance. Elderflowers are known for their fragrant floral notes, often used to make syrups, teas, and desserts, while elderberries bring a rich, tart flavour, commonly found in jams, syrups, and wines.

PLEASE NOTE: Elderberries should not be eaten raw, as they contain compounds that can be toxic if not cooked properly. Elderflowers, however, are safe to use fresh or dried but have an unpleasant taste when eaten raw.

Nutritionally, Elderflower / Berry:

  • Are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce oxidative stress and promote overall health.

  • May promote skin and respiratory health, with elderflowers traditionally used in remedies for soothing skin irritations and easing symptoms of respiratory conditions such as colds and hay fever.

Dried elderflowers and elderberries are often available in health food stores, online retailers, or specialty herb shops for use in teas, syrups and more!

 
 
 
 
 
 

Behaviour Change and Diabetes Management

By Modupe Peters
FFP Director & Diabetes Lead

In this concluding section on behaviour change and diabetes management, we will explore practical methods for setting SMART goals and overcoming barriers to change

Setting SMART goals

SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound

For example, instead of saying “I will have more fruits & vegetables in my diet,” say this: “I will have at least 3 portions of fruits and vegetables every day”.

Changing behaviour is not an easy process, but it is crucial to understand the various stages involved so you are prepared for the challenges ahead, hence making the process a little easier.

Stages of behaviour change:

  • Precontemplation: you are likely to be ignoring or denying the problem at this stage

  • Contemplation: at this stage, you are likely to be considering the advantages and disadvantages of making the changes

  • Preparation: at this stage, you start making plans for the change (making sure to buy more fruits and vegetables)

  • Action: steps are taken towards making a change in behaviour (making sure to eat more fruits and vegetables daily)

  • Maintenance: At this stage, you continue with the changes implemented long-term; this stage requires ongoing support and encouragement to prevent relapse.

  • Relapse: at this stage, setback tends to happen, returning to one of the earlier stages of change

Overcoming barriers to change

The following factors can often make behaviour change difficult:

  • Emotional eating: stress or emotional distress can trigger unhealthy eating habits. Therapy or mindful eating can be of help.

  • Time constraints: lack of time is another barrier, and solutions can include meal planning and preparation or bulk/batch cooking.

  • Financial constraints: making healthy food choices can sometimes be expensive, solutions could be bulk buying and batch cooking when possible.

Changing behaviour is not an overnight process; it requires persistence, patience and support. Small, consistent steps can lead to significant health improvements in your diabetes control. By embracing evidence-based strategies and asking for help and support when needed from family, friends and your health care team, you are more likely to take control of your diabetes and lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Bug bites: A Protein Revolution?

As you ponder your next meal, perhaps a juicy steak or a grilled chicken breast comes to mind. But what if we considered alternatives like a handful of crickets or a delightful mealworm stir-fry? It may sound a bit unconventional, but these little critters are making waves as a sustainable protein source.

Packed with Protein

Insects are nutritional powerhouses, offering anywhere from 30% to 80% protein by weight, depending on the species. To put that in perspective, just 100 grams of crickets can provide as much protein as 100 grams of beef! They’re also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

Eco-Friendly Farming

With our population growing and traditional farming methods under pressure, insects could offer an eco-friendly solution to our protein cravings. They require significantly less land, water, and feed compared to livestock. For example, crickets need just 1 kilogram of feed to produce 1 kilogram of insect protein, while cattle can require over 8 kilograms for the same amount of meat.

Culinary Creativity

While the idea of munching on bugs might raise some eyebrows, chefs across the UK are rising to the challenge of incorporating insects into innovative dishes that keep our taste buds guessing. From cricket flour pancakes to roasted larva tacos, there’s a growing array of insect-based meals that may surprise you with their flavour!

The Future of Food

As we face pressing issues like climate change and food security, insects could become a key player in our diets. So, the next time you come across a dish featuring “crunchy protein,” remember you might be savouring something not only delicious but also environmentally sustainable. 

Let’s get ready to embrace the buzz about bugs! 🦗✨

Cricket Pancakes
Picture courtesy of: https://bugvivant.com/recipe/perfect-cricket-pancakes/

 
 
 
 
 

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