< Previous40 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY HEALTH AND FITNESS A notable shift is anticipated toward ‘real’ plant-based offerings accentuating wholesome vegetables, pulses, nuts, seeds, and a diverse array of botanicals. These authentic products are expected to outshine their ultra- processed counterparts, with faux meats like Beyond and Impossible potentially losing their allure due to being perceived as overly processed. Yet, within this landscape of evolving dietary choices, experts remain divided. While some foresee a decline in the appeal of synthetic meat options, others posit a resilient future for the synthetic meat industry within the plant-based movement. Industries specializing in food processing and synthetic biology are actively devising ways to market ‘sustainable’ plant-based alternatives, including innovative products mimicking fish. The nutrition science community, A well-rounded approach to health and fitness in 2024 As the calendar flips to 2024, experts predict the unwavering reign of plant-based foods. However, discerning palates may usher in an era of selective consumption. however, maintains a cautious stance, mired in scepticism and internal conflict regarding certain synthetic products. Despite reservations, marketing endeavours are capitalizing on the zeitgeist of plant-based trends popularized by media influencers. This collision of scientific apprehension and burgeoning consumer interest presents a battleground where marketing strategies vie to align with the surging enthusiasm for plant-centric lifestyles. According to experts, the prevailing tide of stringent diets like keto and intermittent fasting might begin to wane in the coming year. The spotlight is expected to turn towards the rise of more adaptable and health-oriented eating regimes, such as the celebrated Mediterranean diet. Remarkably, the hashtag #mediterraneanfood has surged, accumulating a staggering 76 million views on TikTok in the last year, signifying a burgeoning interest in this wholesome culinary approach, which has a focus on sustainability by using whole foods. The Mediterranean diet is also backed by a multitude of studies as being the ideal diet. Nutrition professionals champion this eating pattern for its ability to optimize both physical health and gastronomic pleasure, solidifying its status as a lifestyle choice rather than a fleeting diet craze. The nutritional forecast for 2024 heralds a focus on “hero ingredients,” namely gut-friendly bacteria and an upsurge in plant-based foods. Gut health emerges as an indomitable buzzword poised to dominate discussions in 2024. The evolving comprehension of the profound link between gut health and overall well- being will drive a quest for diverse strategies to enhance it. As this correlation gains further recognition, individuals will actively seek innovative A well-rounded approach to health and fitness in 2024 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 41 HEALTH AND FITNESS © stock.adobe.com/alicja neumiler methods to nurture and fortify their gut health, emphasizing its pivotal role in achieving holistic wellness. Alongside this dietary shift, the concept of “mindful eating” gains traction, advocating for a more deliberate and present approach to meals. Experts predict a surge in the popularity of apps encouraging slower eating habits, portion control, and mindful consumption. These tools are envisioned as easy ways into changing individuals’ approach to consumption, emphasizing a measured and conscious way of eating without the need for restrictive diets. This holistic, measured approach extends into fitness too. The ‘cosy cardio’ phenomenon that stormed social media in the past year is expected to persist, promoting workouts conducted in comfortable spaces and at a more relaxed pace, ushering in a more approachable and gentler perspective towards physical fitness. This will likely be combined with “habit-stacking,” a concept centred on initiating small, healthy habits and progressively building upon them. This approach aims to encourage individuals to bolster their health and well-being in a sustainable and manageable manner. This incremental and sustainable approach promises a more enriching and enduring journey toward personal wellness. Forecasts by experts unveil a burgeoning trend toward communal fitness activities and group workouts. Encouragingly, the benefits extend beyond mere exercise, emphasizing the integral role of community engagement in overall well-being. Notably, burgeoning activities like pickleball (an American tennis-like game with short, handled bats) which garnered a staggering 459 million views on TikTok in the U.S. throughout 2023. Social sports are perfect for those who work from home, or on a hybrid schedule. This is backed by research from David Lloyd Clubs, is shifting towards a more multifaceted approach, emphasizing adventure, fun, and the prioritization of rest. A significant 39% are keen on exploring novel experiences, signalling a growing appetite for enriching and diverse fitness pursuits. Family also emerges as a central focus in the pursuit of holistic well- being, with an overwhelming 90% of respondents affirming its paramount importance in their lives. Nearly half of those surveyed (46%) expressed a heartfelt desire to use these pursuits to aid family bonding in 2024. This evolving perspective indicates a collective aspiration for a blend of adventure, self-authenticity, and cherished connections, propelling a wellness narrative that celebrates a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.42 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY FOOD & DINING It’s a new year and we’re looking at some creative ways to start the year off, from using some of that leftover turkey to some fruity recipes. Leftover Turkey Quesadillas Method: 1. Sprinkle a quarter of the cheddar and a quarter of the mozzarella onto half a side of a tortilla. 2. Next, top the cheese with a quarter of the turkey, a quarter of the onions and a quarter of the gherkins. Then spoon over with a quarter of the cranberry sauce, and finish with a quarter of the brie. 3. Fold the tortilla in half. 4. Repeat with the remaining three tortillas. 5. Heat some oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. When hot add the folded tortilla to the pan. Cook until golden on both sides and the cheese is melted. 6. Once cooked, transfer the tortillas to a chopping board, sprinkle lightly with salt whilst still hot and cut in half. Ingredients: * 4 large tortillas * 250g leftover Turkey meat, chopped into small cubes * 240g Cranberry Sauce * 100g Brie, chopped into small cubes * 50g Mature Cheddar, grated * 50g Mozzarella, shredded * Salt and pepper to taste * 1 tablespoon oil for frying * 1/2 jar Opies Silverskin Onions with Turmeric & Mustard Seeds, quartered * 8 Opies Mini Gherkins, chopped Starting the year off right Serves 2 Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 5 minutes Allergens: Gluten, Dairy Made with leftover turkey, cranberry sauce and cheese and on the table in minutes! FOOD & DINING LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 43 Chocolate Covered Cherries Makes about 40 cherries Preparation time: 45 minutes Cooking time: 2minutes Allergens: Dairy Ingredients: * 375g Icing Sugar * 60g Butter, softened * 1 tbsp Milk * 1/2 tsp Almond Extract * 2 jars of Opies Cocktail Cherries, drained * 340g quality Dark Chocolate Chips * 2 tbsp Vegetable Fat (e,g, Trex) Method: 1. Line a large baking tray with greaseproof paper. 2. In a bowl combine the sugar, butter, milk and almond extract. Knead until smooth and pliable then shape into balls around the size of a two pence piece before flattening into a disk. If the mixture gets too sticky, place in the fridge for 10 minutes to harden a little. 3. Place a well-drained cherry in the centre of the disk and wrap to fully enclose the cherry. Place on the baking tray, cover and chill in the fridge overnight. 4. In a microwave, melt the chocolate and vegetable fat in 15 second intervals, stirring in between until melted. 5. Submerge the cherries in the chocolate until fully coated then place back on the lined tray until set. 6. Store in an airtight container. Make it Vegan: Swap the butter for vegan butter and the milk for a plant based alternative. Ensure the dark chocolate is vegan friendly. 44 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY FOOD & DINING Pickled Walnut Cornish Pasties Method: 1. Rub the flour, salt, butter and lard together in a mixing bowl using your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add 100ml water and bring together to form a dough, then knead for 3-4 minutes until it begins to stretch. 2. Cover and chill for 2-3 hours. Preheat oven to 200°C / fan 180°C /gas 6 and line a large baking tray. 3. Season the steak, potatoes, swede and onions generously in a bowl then add the pickled walnuts and combine briefly, taking care not to break them up. 4. Remove dough from the fridge and divide into 6 balls, before rolling each into a circle about 23cm across on a lightly floured surface - use a side plate as a guide and trim the pastry around it. 5. Spoon some filling onto one half of each circle, leaving a 1cm border, then brush the edges with egg. Fold the pastry half over the top of the filling to encase it and form a half- moon, then pinch together and crimp the edges. Transfer to a tray and chill for another hour before baking. 6. Remove from the fridge then brush pasties with the remaining egg to glaze. Bake for 10 minutes, then lower the oven to 160°C / fan 140°C / gas 3 and bake for a further 45 minutes until golden. 7. Serve warm or cold. Serves 6 Meal Occasion: Light Lunch, Picnic, Regional Preparation Time: 2+ hours (includes 2 hours chilling time) Cooking Time: 2+ hours Allergens: gluten, dairy, egg, walnuts Ingredients * 500g strong white bread flour * 1 tsp salt * 150g unsalted butter, diced * 100g lard, diced * 1 egg, beaten to seal and glaze For the filling * 400g rump steak, fat removed and cut into 1cm cubes * 300g waxy potatoes, diced into 1cm cubes * 200g swede, peeled and chopped into 1cm cubes * 2 onions, finely chopped * 3 Opies Pickled Walnuts, thickly sliced * Salt and pepper, to taste Cornish Pasties are a regional classic. This recipe upgrades the filling very simply - by including Pickled Walnuts. © stock.adobe.com/fudioFOOD & DINING LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 45 All recipes courtesy of Opies Foods. www.opiesfoods.com @opiesfoods Halva with Pistachio & Method: 1. Line a 20cm square tin with parchment paper. 2. Place the tahini, vanilla extract and salt in a large heatproof bowl. Add the sugar and water to a heavy-based saucepan and bring to the boil. Stir it once then leave it untouched to reach 245°C (you will need to use a sugar thermometer for this). 3. As soon as it reaches temperature, carefully pour it over the tahini mixture and stir until well combined and the mixture starts to thicken. As soon as this happens stop stirring, to avoid it becoming crumbly. 4. Transfer into the pre-prepared tin and smooth the top over using a knife. Sprinkle over the pistachios then drain the cherries well and stud them all over the halva. 5. Leave to cool to room temperature then refrigerate until chilled and set for at least 3 hours. Serves 6 - 8 Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 3 hours chilling time) Cooking Time: 30 minutes Recipe Type: Gluten Free, vegan, sweet treats, home-made gifts Ingredients * 360g Tahini * 1 tsp Vanilla Extract * 1 tsp Salt * 300g Granulated Sugar * 75ml Water * 75g Pistachios, toasted and roughly chopped * 1 jar Opies Black Cherries with Kirsch Black Cherry46 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY AGRICULTURE F arming has ever been hard work, all the way through history, and yet rampant commercialism has driven down the prices of produce and left farmers chasing near- impossible targets and requirements from big businesses that prioritise their bottom lines over anything else. For the family- run farm that is so common across Lincolnshire, it’s an impossible strain on an already tough business. And that hasn’t gotten any easier in recent years with the cost-of-living crisis, the economic downturn, and the effects of climate change leading to repeated floods, unseasonal weather and cold snaps that can kill crops dead. While farmers have traditionally been sturdy individuals, the constant pressure has ultimately had its effect on many, pushing families to give up the trade and sell off their farms, and others to spiral into despair. The general well-being of farmers is becoming a bigger priority as farmers and workers are urged to discuss any issues with mental health as rising costs, environmental pressures and uncertainties caused by Brexit amongst other things, are leading to more psychological problems according to the Farm Safety Foundation (FSF) which states it has resulted a rise in risk-taking behaviours and accidents, with 94% of UK farmers under 40 agreeing that mental health, from depression to anxiety, is one of the biggest hidden problems they face on a daily basis. A study by the Foundation (or Yellow Wellies as many know them), found that mental health issues among farmers and agricultural workers are of growing concern, and have a direct impact on safety on the farm. 88% of farmers under the age of 40 now rate poor mental health as the biggest hidden problem faced by farmers today, up from 82% in 2018. Meanwhile, 89% of young farmers believe that talking about mental health in farming will remove any stigma attached to it - an It’s a hard job The dream view of farming as an escape to the countryside and a peaceful life really doesn’t match up to the reality of hard work, harder conditions, and worsening mental health. LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 47 AGRICULTURE © stock.adobe.com/ValentinValkov increase of 9% in the past two years. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures show in 2021 alone, 36 farmers in the UK took their own lives and 22 died in accidents – and so the Mind Your Head campaign, launched in 2018, to enlighten the concerns facing the farming industry, aims to remind people living and working in the industry to look after their mental health and encourages people not to be afraid to seek therapy and speak to a GP about medication, if they feel it’s needed. Another positive is ‘Wellbeing hubs’ which are also being set up by charities across rural England to support isolated agricultural staff with mental health support and loneliness especially as farmers can be extra vulnerable due to stress from fuel and fertiliser costs rising, poor harvests and worries finding labour, and there are in fact plans to train vets and insurance reps through this scheme to support agricultural personnel. Alongside the ‘Wellbeing hubs’ there are other farming charities for farmers and their workers to call to gain support, such as: RABI (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution) 0800 188 4444, RSABI (Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution) 0808 1234 555, FCN (Farming Community Network) 03000 111999 and Yellow Wellies 01789 455198. The challenges of farming have also led many to diversify their land, and this has not always gone down well. Solar farms have become commonplace, and not at all a bad investment for many – especially with the high prices of energy. However, while this may be better for farmers it’s not necessarily better for the country as a whole, limiting potential food production in a crisis and forcing the UK to be more susceptible to food shortages in other countries. This has led to a lot of pushback from the government, and 48 Á48 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY AGRICULTURE Lincolnshire County Council have said they will oppose all solar farm applications on prime farmland. This may be all well and good in theory, but it doesn’t address the main problem. Lincolnshire farmers aren’t desperately looking to turn their farmland into solar panel farms; they’re looking to make ends meet and get by, and local government simply banning more profitable ways of using farmland rather than addressing the key problem of exploitative wholesalers and supermarkets will do little more than push more farmers into desperate positions, worsening mental health and ultimately driving more and more out of business if prices continue to spiral. There’s little support to be had from government despite successive ministers repeating that they are “committed to the UK farming industry.” If we believed every “commitment” the government gave out, we’d be very disappointed, and farmers will always judge actions over words. Sadly, there has been little in the way of action from London. While these uncertain times can still be tough on farms, a new agricultural growth zone announced last year is set to support Lincolnshire farming and boost the wealth and wellbeing of local agriculture. The ‘ag zone’ will become a centre for education and skill fostering, engaging with schools and providers of higher education, including the University of Lincoln’s Riseholme campus; the base of operations for research-driven working farm the Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Technology. The intention of this project is to encourage local youth to carry farming’s heritage into the future, while sustaining professional development in Lincolnshire’s current farming industry. This work to inspire new collaboration and research between farming, community and scientific advancement has attracted more than £60 million worth of investment to Lincolnshire farming in recent years. Funding has flourished into innovative agritech businesses, including the yield forecasting service FruitCast, and Agaricus Robotics, which is the world’s first Global Centre for Excellence in Agricultural Robotics. Engineering and machines are once again a large part of the conversation about the future of farming in this county. But there’s a note of inclusion in this case, as additional investment will be secured to trial new technologies, and help farmers adopt and use them. There has also been farming robots shown off at various shows in the past few years, and the Lamma Show is coming in early 2024 as well, which will hopefully have fresh answers. However, investment in new technology is expensive, especially when the technology is still new, and it may be too little too late for many farmers to spend so much money on overhauling their farm, and the benefits of it will only be felt if farmers lay off their workers, which surely only creates a fresh problem. The ones owning the farms may be better off, but more and more people will be laid off as a result, and there may well be longer-term fears of how farms might be run if the human element can be taken out entirely. We have already seen with HS2 that the Government is not afraid to force you to sell your property, then refuse to give it back after the HS2 cancellation and sell it on to developers. Given this happened in our own East Midlands region, who is to say if one’s right to their own land will remain safe? If © stock.adobe.com/CaseyjadewLINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 49 AGRICULTURE KEVIN JOHNSON “For those times when you need a helping hand on farm or on land” 4 Church Road | Wittering | Peterborough | PE8 6AG Tel: 01780 782924 | Mobile: 07860 608825 enquiries@kevinjohnsoncontracting.co.uk www.kevinjohnsoncontracting.co.uk •Fertiliser Spreading 12m to 36m •Lime Spreading •Maize Drilling •Grass Mowing with Triple Mowers T: 07702293727 E: marcus@mjpsupplies.co.uk W: www.mjpsupplies.co.uk Suppliers of a range of liquid storage tanks for: • Oil • adblue • Water • Fertiliser Stockists of Portek Bird Scarers Watch your profits grow For the purpose of importing and selling Algifol™ biostimulant products to farmers and growers of specialist crops the Government are already telling you what you can and cannot do with your own land over solar panels, then how long before they start telling you what crops to plant? Food scarcity and security is a major talking point right now due to the geopolitical conditions across the world, especially in Ukraine, which provides a lot of grain and food to the rest of Europe. If things continue to worsen, the UK may be forced into a position where it has to become more reliant on itself, which would mean farmers being expected to produce more food for UK shelves. This will be fine if initiatives are put in place to support and make this feasible for farmers, but a government only looking to secure votes will swiftly realise that consumers outnumber farmers, and that they can win more votes by reducing food prices at the expense of farmers, than by supporting farmers at the expense of everyone else. There are over 75,000 Greater Lincolnshire workers employed in the farming, processing and distribution of food and goods, keeping the county’s status as the UK’s leading centre of agriculture fed and watered. If all the upcoming experimentation and research goes to plan, there are firm grounds for the area’s farming industry to remain as strong and influential as it is today. £2 billion of crops and livestock produced for the community and beyond is the proof that this proud tradition isn’t going anywhere. If history has taught us anything, it’s that while there are often hardships, the essential need and people’s esteem in their farms always helps the industry survive even the toughest times. © stock.adobe.com/metamorworksNext >