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FOOD | HEROES more aware of the benefits of choosing organic food, both for health gains and in an effort to protect the environment.” Are any veg particularly hip right now? “Certain produce could be called fashionable, yes; right now, kale, cauliflower and avocado are trending, and beetroot is set for superstar status. Fermented products are also becoming popular – we sell Biotiful Kefir as an extra which can be added to the box. But beyond fashion, we know that people are genuinely interested in cooking good food at home. We’ve noticed an increase in the number of people ordering our organic recipe boxes, which give you all the ingredients and instructions you need to cook delicious meals. They appeal particularly to people who are really busy as they take all the thinking out of cooking, and they’re so much more delicious and nutritious than a takeaway or a ready meal.” If you’re not already au fait with Riverford, the recipe box option may have surprised you. The company’s offering includes all manner of home delivery options. Alongside the veg, fruit and salad combos, there are meat- and dairy-specific selections, a farm shop range that includes bread, deli treats and store cupboard grocery staples, a barbecue shop and drinks from coffee and soft drinks to cider, beer and wine. Two recently launched community-focused projects further bolster the Riverford appeal. “The Riverford Veg Fund is a scheme to
help schools, charities and other groups to raise funds and promote healthy eating,” says Vicki. “We’re already working with several schools, helping them to fundraise and running healthy eating and cooking workshops with children and parents, which has been fun. We’re looking for other schools, charities and other groups to join us too. And our Master Veg cookery classes are evening workshops in village halls, introduce local people to cooking with a veg box delivery.” Vicki also maintains the Riverford profile by working in collaboration with Rachel Demuth at Demuths Vegetarian Cookery
School, who runs an advanced vegetarian cookery workshop using Riverford produce a couple of times a year. During her downtime, Vicki is a fan of both Menu Gordon Jones and Dan Moon at the Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel restaurant, and enjoys time with her family and her border terrier Toffee at the Inn at Freshford, her local pub. “I’m proud of the ethical approach Riverford takes to good food, good farming and maintaining community connections, as well as the service we offer.” Riverford Organic Farmers, visit: riverford.co.uk. n
THEBATHMAG.CO.UK
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SEPTEMBER 2017
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ThEBATHMagazinE 65