If your black pepper now costs more than your wine, you can thank a trade war started by someone whose palate peaked at fast food and whose economic policy had all the nuance of a sledgehammer in a spice shop.
U.S. tariffs are wrecking the global spice market, raising prices in Canada, the UK, Australia, and Europe. And yes—this mess traces back to a man who thinks “flavor” is fake news.
Yes, we’re talking about the U.S. tariffs on imported spices—and the collateral damage they’ve left across the global market. What began as a chest-thumping campaign to “protect American interests” has become a slow, grinding disaster for Canada, the UK, Australia, and Europe. Not to mention your pantry.
Tariffs 101: How to Break a Supply Chain with a Fork
Over the last few years, the U.S. has slapped tariffs—many at 25% or higher—on a wide range of agricultural imports, including essential spices like cumin, turmeric, ginger, and chili. Average US tariffs on Chinese exports now stand at 124.1 percent. These tariffs are more than 40 times higher than before the US-China tariff war began in 2018 and are already 6 times higher than the average US tariff on China of 20.8 percent when the second Trump administration began on January 20, 2025. Why? Because the U.S. was mad at China, India, and any other country whose exports outperformed its own. Which, in the spice department, is literally all of them.
And here’s the twist: America doesn’t actually grow spices. You won’t find fields of cardamom in Iowa or coriander farms in Kentucky. So tariffs don’t protect American spice producers. They just punish importers, retailers, and everyone who enjoys food that doesn’t taste like sadness.
Even the U.S. International Trade Commission shows how agricultural prices, including spices, have spiked across the board—because when you play economic games with your food supply, everyone loses.
Canada & the UK: Collateral Damage
Canada didn’t ask for this culinary chaos, but it’s stuck with it. Much of its spice supply comes through the U.S., which means tariffs hit Canadians too. Importers are now trying to source directly, but competing with big American buyers jacking up prices across Asia isn’t exactly easy.
The UK? Not much better. After Brexit turned logistics into a sadistic puzzle, British importers now have to fight U.S. buyers for product—and lose. According to UK Trade Info, spice prices have climbed consistently. If you were wondering why your tikka masala tastes more like tikka meh-sala lately, blame it on trade policy—and a dash of imperial nostalgia.
Australia & the EU: Sweating Without the Spice
Australia’s in a tough spot too. With no significant local spice production, it relies almost entirely on imports. As the U.S. barges through the supply chain looking for non-tariffed sources, it’s pushing up prices for everyone, especially down under. Supermarket shelves are starting to look a little… underseasoned.
Meanwhile in Europe, even with relatively stable trade agreements, the effects are undeniable. Spice-heavy processed foods heading to the U.S. now face tougher import rules. The European Commission’s Market Access Database shows growing hurdles, but small exporters can barely keep up. Spoiler: it’s hard to sell gourmet harissa when you’re drowning in paperwork and price hikes.
A Hot Mess, Minus the Flavour
So where does this leave us? Paying more for cumin. Fighting over fenugreek. Watching our favorite blends disappear from shelves like they’re rare Pokémon. And for what? Economic chest-thumping from a guy whose signature dish is “steak, incinerated.”
It’s almost poetic. The man who once described foreign cuisine as “suspicious” managed to blow up a global market most of us didn’t even realize was fragile. Tariffs were supposed to bring manufacturing home. Instead, they brought inflation, empty shelves, and sadness in the spice aisle.
So next time your recipe calls for a pinch of cloves and the jar costs more than your rent, just remember: this all started because someone who thought seasoning was liberal propaganda tried to fix the economy with a Sharpie and a cheeseburger.
The European Commission’s Market Access Database now reads like a thriller novel for food producers—only the villains are bureaucracy, inflation, and bad economic takes.
The Irony? The Architect of This Chaos Hates Flavour
Let’s not forget where this all started: with Donald Trump, a man whose food pyramid is just a picture of McDonald’s. This is a guy who probably thinks za’atar is a Marvel villain and considers “mild salsa” a hate crime. Letting him rewrite trade policy was like letting a goldfish design a subway system—confused, messy, and full of flopping.
He didn’t just misunderstand spices. He misunderstood economies. And yet, here we are, years later, still paying the price—in the form of $8 cumin and a 40% markup on your once-affordable smoked paprika.
So next time your grocery bill stings and your spice jars run dry, remember: this is what happens when economic policy is driven by a man who thinks seasoning is part of the deep state. America wanted to put the world on notice. Instead, it just made dinner more expensive for everyone.
Choosing the right grain spawn is a game changer for growing mushrooms. Whether you’re experienced or starting out, the type of grain spawn you pick can affect your results. With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming.
But don’t worry by focusing on a few key factors, you’ll find the best grain spawn for your setup and boost your yields. Want to know what to look for? Keep reading to discover four essential tips that will help you pick the right grain spawn.
1. Type of Mushroom
Different mushroom species have specific needs for successful cultivation. For instance, gourmet mushrooms like shiitake require a certain type of grain spawn to promote strong growth and high yields. But more common varieties such as oyster mushrooms are more versatile and can adapt to a range of grain spawn types.
Knowing the requirements of the particular type of mushroom you’re growing is essential for selecting the right grain spawn. This ensures healthy, fast colonization and a better harvest. Tailoring your choice of grain spawn to your mushroom’s needs is key to success.
2. Grain Type
The type of grain used in grain spawn plays a significant role in determining both the growth rate and yield of mushrooms. Rye is a popular choice due to its high nutrient content, which facilitates rapid mycelial colonization and robust growth. Its rich nutrient profile makes it effective for species that require dense, fast colonization.
Wheat, in contrast, is softened before inoculation, which makes it more appealing to fungi by providing a softer texture and greater surface area for the mycelium to colonize. Millet, another commonly used grain, is favored for its small size, offering high surface area for colonization while maintaining excellent moisture retention. By understanding the unique benefits of each grain, cultivators can choose the most appropriate one to meet their specific cultivation objectives, optimizing both speed and yield.
3. Quality and Freshness
Choosing high-quality, fresh grain spawn is non-negotiable. Old or pre-prepared grain spawn can lead to slow growth or contamination, which can ruin your crop. Look for suppliers who give clear information on the spawn’s age and preparation methods. A reputable supplier will often share cultivation tips, ensuring you get the best quality spawn for your specific needs.
4. Packaging and Storage
Consider how the grain spawn is packaged and stored. Spawn that comes in mushroom grow bags often simplifies the process, reducing the risk of contamination during handling. Proper storage conditions are critical, as grain spawn should be kept in a cool, dark place to maintain its viability. Always check the packaging for any signs of damage and ensure that it has been stored to maximize its effectiveness.
Maximize Your Mushroom Yields With the Right Grain Spawn
To get the best results in mushroom cultivation, it’s important to choose the right grain spawn. Focus on the type of mushrooms you want to grow, pick a suitable grain, check for freshness, and make sure you store it properly. These simple steps can lead to better yields and a more rewarding harvest.
When you make the right choices, growing mushrooms can be both fun and profitable. Check out our blog for expert advice on perfecting your cultivation skills!
Photo Attribution: John Carl Jacobs (JCJacobs), CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
2025 is set to be a game-changer for the catering world, with trends that promise to elevate any event from “just okay” to unforgettable. If you’re a foodie (or just a little obsessed with Instagram-worthy bites), here’s a sneak peek at the catering trends that are already making waves this year. Ready to drool? Let’s dive in.
1. Farm-to-Table Goes Hyper-Local
In 2025, “farm-to-table” is getting a major upgrade. Catering companies are taking the local sourcing trend to the next level by partnering directly with neighborhood farms, urban gardens, and even rooftop herb growers! This isn’t just about fresher flavors; it’s about supporting local communities and reducing the carbon footprint of your event. Imagine sipping a cocktail garnished with herbs grown just blocks away from the venue. Now that’s fresh.
2. Interactive Food Stations That Spark Conversation
Forget the traditional buffet – this year, catering is all about interaction. Think: pasta-making stations where guests can roll their own gnocchi, sushi bars where they can assemble their rolls, or even mixology stands to create custom mocktails. These interactive stations turn food into an experience, making your event stand out. Not only does this keep things lively, but it also gives guests a chance to get hands-on with their food. Win-win!
3. Plant-Based Menus (With a Gourmet Twist)
Plant-based is no longer just a side option for your vegan friends – it’s taking center stage in 2025. Today’s plant-based catering is refined, inventive, and delicious enough to convert even the most die-hard meat lovers. From plant-based charcuterie boards to vegan lobster rolls, caterers are proving that you don’t need meat to make a meal unforgettable. This trend is also about showcasing unique flavors and ingredients, from heirloom vegetables to exotic spices, in ways that will surprise and delight your guests.
4. Zero-Waste Catering: Sustainability at Every Step
2025 is the year of eco-conscious catering. With a focus on reducing waste, caterers are finding creative ways to make every part of the food journey sustainable. Expect to see edible cups, compostable plates, and even menus designed to minimize leftovers. Some companies are even incorporating “upcycled” ingredients – think: using bread scraps for breadcrumbs or vegetable tops in broths. This trend isn’t just good for the planet; it also challenges chefs to get innovative, ensuring your menu is as eco-friendly as it is delicious.
5. Global Fusion, Local Flair
Fusion cuisine is making a comeback, but with a twist. Caterers are creating menus that blend global flavors with local ingredients, resulting in unique dishes that feel both exotic and familiar. Picture tacos with Mediterranean fillings, or Korean BBQ with seasonal veggies from a local farm. This approach isn’t just about mixing cultures; it’s about celebrating diversity while highlighting local agriculture. McEwan Catering blends global flavors with a local touch, giving guests a taste of the world while championing local ingredients.
Whether you’re planning a wedding, hosting a corporate event, or just a hardcore foodie, these 2025 catering trends are worth keeping on your radar. Each one promises not only to elevate the taste experience but also to bring guests closer to the food, the chefs, and the world around them
No matter which business you are in, nothing can beat the power of business intelligence tools. And more after the pandemic, as the things have drastically changed. So, if you want your business to thrive, you need to leverage the technology in your favor. Because it is the must-have ingredient that can take your business to heights.
But where to start from, and what steps can you take to keep the sparks alive in your food business?
We have come up with the answers to all your queries. The ultimate solution to all your problems is the business intelligence. Its time to pay your undivided attention to the usage of business intelligence tools and how they can turn the tables for your business. Let’s get started
Operational efficiency
Business intelligence isn’t limited to what’s on your plate. It goes beyond that and informs you about the thrill of behind the scenes. It allows you to analyze data associated with various facets like most loved restaurants, kitchen workflow and many more. This way, you can identify bottlenecks and loopholes and can take steps to optimize operations.
For instance – Food businesses can use business intelligence tool to access the freshest and most comprehensive food service insights on the market, helping them improve market clarity. All in all, it leads to operational efficiency and hence a more responsive business model.
Improves profitability
Gathering the data is not the end of the game. You have to interpret it to experience the best results and gain a competitive advantage. Business intelligence tools drive the most important business decisions like creating loyalty programs, managing inventory, and organizing schedules, ensuring to add profitability to your bottom line.
Additionally, the valuable insights given by business intelligence platforms allows you to tailor your offerings in a way to maximize sales. You can keep a track on the effectiveness of promotional campaigns. Leveraging such information helps enhance the marketing and product strategies and ultimately overall profitability.
Inventory management
The right amount of inventory is the key aspect of reducing food waste. If you have integrated data analytics software with your restaurant management system, you can automate the tracking process. It assists you in getting accurate inventory data to streamline the entire system.
You have to find out the variance between theoretical food usage and actual food usage to make the necessary adjustments. What’s more? You can also use predictive analysis tools to reduce the food anomalies. Reducing food waste not only helps cut costs but also aligns with sustainable business practices. This plays a significant role in attracting the eco-conscious consumers.
Streamline supply chain management
When you use business intelligence in your food business, you gain insights on inventory turnover, restaurant database, cuisine types, menu items and many more. Keeping these in mind, you can set goals and benchmark for your business.
For instance – By integrating business intelligence tool in your business, you can track the performance of the suppliers and monitor the metrics like delivery times and cost fluctuations. Thus, streamlined supply chain management ensures every process runs efficiently and your business have right products at the right time.
Pricing strategies
There is no denying the fact that pricing forms a crucial element for any food business. Business intelligence tools help analyze a wealth of data. For instance – Using these platforms, you can see how changes in pricing have effect on sales volumes and profit margins. It further aids you in making wise decisions about price adjustments.
Furthermore, food vendors can find out whether the ingredients they are growing are popular among the restaurants or not. They can then contact those restaurants and find out about their pricing to make a good comparison of the price. It will help him set the right price for his food item and hence earn profits. Therefore, businesses are able to refine their pricing strategies and optimize their overall revenue.
Compliance and Safety
Compliance with health and safety regulations is a major element of the food industry. Business intelligence tools ensure that you comply with these regulations. How? It keeps monitoring the important metrics like food temperatures, sanitations practices and storage conditions.
In addition, BI tools helps manage compliance documentation for the businesses, like inspection report and training records of the employees. Such centralized system helps a lot in the times of inspections and audits, reducing the risks of fines and shutdowns. Businesses complying with all the regulations can save themselves from paying any costly penalties and protect their reputation.
To make a long story short
Business Intelligence tools are transforming the food industry by providing valuable insights that help businesses optimize every aspect of their operations. Whether you’re running a small café or any food business, investing in BI tools can provide a significant return on investment and set the stage for long-term success in the food industry.
Catering is a science that entails combining flavors, textures, and presentation to deliver unique experiences. Spices can be one of the best ways to refine any catering menu. These little elements can turn an average meal into a gourmet experience that can be enjoyed with family and guests. In this guide, you will learn about the right combinations of spices to use in your catering services to create an excellent experience for your clientele.
Whether you are a bride-to-be working on your Wedding menu, a corporate event planner, or even someone planning a house party, a little knowledge about spice pairing goes a long way. Those who want someone else to cook will be glad to know that gourmet catering services are available.
The Basics of Spice Pairing
Spice pairing uses two or more spices to enhance the aesthetic value of foods’ natural flavors. This process entails knowledge of spices’ relative properties and behavior with other food items. Classifying spices according to their tastes, such as sweet, savory, hot, and aromatic spices, is also essential. It is necessary to realize which spices can be grouped in this or that category and how they should be combined for successful spice pairing.
Sweet Spices
Some typical sweet spices that help make sweets include cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, which are also instrumental in preparing savory foods. For example, cinnamon in lamb stews can make a dish warm and inviting. Nutmeg may complement rich, creamy sauces, such as Alfredo sauce, while vanilla may make seafood dishes like shrimp more appealing.
Savory Spices
Herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage are best used when cooking meat and poultry. Thyme has a somewhat earthy taste and is best used with roasted chicken, and rosemary has a deliciously woody scent that goes well with grilled lamb. Sage has a slightly peppery solid flavor and is best used for stuffing and sausages.
Hot Spices
Some spices are hot, including chili, black pepper, and ginger, to name but a few; these make the food hot and very interesting. Chili peppers have different spiciness levels, which must be considered while selecting appropriate chilies for the dish. Black pepper is a highly diverse spice that can be added to almost any meat, fish, or vegetable dish. In contrast, ginger has a spicy, citrusy undertone that goes well with sweet and savory dishes.
Aromatic Spices
Whole spices such as cumin, coriander, and cardamom add a spicy flavor to dishes. Cumin is a flavorful spice with a warm, nutty taste typically used in Mexican and Indian dishes. Coriander also has a citrus flavor and aroma, which makes it ideal for preparing fish and chicken dishes. The cardamom seeds have a sweet and floral taste, making their use in sweet recipes and curries possible.
Creating a Balanced Menu
To create a good catering menu, it is essential to have a good taste of the various foods you will serve. This includes the choice of additional spices and the balance to prevent one spice from overpowering all the others. The menu should contain various flavors, textures, and aromas that complement one another to create the appropriate balance.
Appetizers
Appetizers should be delicate, splashy, and light to help guests prepare for the next course. For instance, a cumin-flavored hummus served with warm pita bread can precede the type of meal being offered. Paprika on the deviled eggs gives it a smoky flavor that complements the dish well, and shrimp skewered with ginger gives it a refreshing feel.
Main Courses
Main courses are the most important meals, and when choosing spices, consider the essential protein and how spices boost their natural flavors. One would always want to continue eating the rosemary and garlic-crusted roast beef that is served. For vegetarians, there is a lentil stew based on turmeric, cumin, and coriander, which gives the meal deep, warm tones. Spices and vegetables are other alternatives that can be used in the kitchen, such as cinnamon and nutmeg with roasted butternut squash.
Side Dishes
Accompanying dishes should be consistent with the main meals. For example, basmati rice cooked with saffron is served with a chicken curry with the same spice level. Thyme and sage roasted root vegetables go well with grilled meats, thus making this dish complementary to protein-rich courses. A salad prepared from tomatoes and Cucumbers can be taken between meals to wash down the mouth with a lemon and dill vinaigrette.
Desserts
Before you complete your meal, bring out desserts that use sweet and aromatic spices. Cardamom-spiced panna cotta with berry compote is the perfect, tender, delicate, fragrant end note. Black pepper is used in gingerbread cookies to add an unexpected twist to surprise and impress the guests. For dessert, go for the poached pears with cinnamon and star anise; this will surely give the end of the meal a warm feeling.
Enhancing the Dining Experience
This means that even the presentation and the environment in which the food is significantly served affect the dining process. Incorporating spices artistically, like sprinkling crushed spices on soups or garnishing food with herbs or spice blends, improves the look of the food. Moreover, pay attention to the smell of the food you prepare, as it is also a factor to be considered. Cinnamon or rosemary in the hall, or even in the kitchen, can brighten up the guests or make them hungrier.
Conclusion
The balancing of spices can change the way you approach your catering menu by taking it from good to great. This way, you will understand how certain spices taste and blend with certain foods so you can cook harmoniously for your guests. Even when discussing preparing snacks, entrees, side dishes, and sweets, spices should be used as a proper complement to every meal. For those who want to ensure the event will be wonderful and delicious, Handheld Catering is ready to offer gourmet catering services to amaze you with the result.
Ice block makers are essential machines used in various industries such as food and beverage, healthcare, and hospitality. These machines are designed to produce large blocks of ice that can be used for cooling purposes, preserving perishable items, and creating ice sculptures.![]()
Ice block maker![]()
come in different sizes and capacities, ranging from small portable units to large industrial machines.
The process of making ice blocks involves freezing water in a mold or container to form solid blocks of ice.
The technology behind ice block makers allows for efficient and consistent production of ice blocks,
ensuring a steady supply of ice for various applications. Ice block makers are equipped with refrigeration
systems, water pumps, and control panels to regulate the freezing process and ensure the quality of the ice
Operating an ice block maker requires following specific steps to ensure proper functioning and optimal
performance. Users need to fill the water reservoir, set the desired temperature and freezing time, and
monitor the production process to ensure the ice blocks are formed correctly. Regular maintenance and
cleaning of the ice block maker are also essential to prevent malfunctions and ensure the longevity of the
The Process of Making Ice Blocks
Firstly, the ice block maker is filled with water, which is then frozen to form the ice blocks. The water is
typically filtered to remove any impurities that may affect the quality of the ice blocks. The freezing process
is controlled by the ice block maker’s technology, which ensures that the ice blocks are formed evenly and
Once the water is frozen, the ice blocks are ready to be removed from the ice block maker. This is done by
releasing the ice blocks from the mold or container in which they were formed. The ice blocks are then
stored in a freezer or ice storage bin until they are ready to be used.
The size and shape of the ice blocks can vary depending on the type of ice block maker being used. Some ice
block makers are designed to produce large, rectangular blocks of ice, while others may produce smaller,
cylindrical blocks. The choice of ice block maker will depend on the specific needs of the user, such as the
amount of ice required and the space available for storage.![]()
Technology Behind Ice Block Makers
Ice block makers utilize a combination of technology and engineering to efficiently produce large blocks of
ice. The key component of an ice block maker is the refrigeration system, which is responsible for cooling
and freezing the water to form ice blocks. The refrigeration system typically consists of a compressor,
condenser, evaporator, and expansion valve, all working together to remove heat from the water and lower its
temperature to freezing point.
The compressor plays a crucial role in the refrigeration cycle by compressing the refrigerant gas, which
increases its temperature and pressure. The high-pressure gas then flows to the condenser, where it releases
heat and condenses into a liquid. The liquid refrigerant then moves to the expansion valve, which reduces its
pressure and temperature, allowing it to evaporate in the evaporator. As the refrigerant evaporates, it absorbs
heat from the water, causing it to freeze and form ice blocks.
In addition to the refrigeration system, ice block makers also feature insulation materials to prevent heat
transfer and maintain the cold temperature inside the machine. This insulation helps to improve the
efficiency of the ice-making process and ensures that the ice blocks remain solid and intact.
Some ice block makers may also incorporate advanced features such as automatic controls, digital displays,
and programmable settings to enhance user convenience and operational efficiency. These technological
advancements make it easier for operators to monitor and adjust the ice-making process, resulting in
consistent and high-quality ice blocks.
Steps to Operate an Ice Block Maker
Operating an ice block maker may seem like a complex task, but with the right knowledge and understanding
of the process, it can be quite simple. Here are the steps to effectively operate an ice block maker:
1. Preparation: Before starting the ice-making process, ensure that the ice block maker is clean and free of
any debris. Make sure all components are in working order and that the machine is properly connected to a
2. Filling the Water Tank: The first step in making ice blocks is to fill the water tank of the ice block maker
with clean water. Make sure to fill it to the recommended level to ensure proper ice formation.
3. Turning on the Machine: Once the water tank is filled, turn on the ice block maker and set it to the desired
temperature. This will initiate the freezing process and start the formation of ice blocks.
4. Monitoring the Process: Keep an eye on the ice block maker as it goes through the freezing process. Check
the temperature settings periodically to ensure that the ice blocks are forming correctly.
5. Removing the Ice Blocks: Once the ice blocks are fully formed, carefully remove them from the ice block
maker. Be sure to handle them with care to prevent any breakage or damage.
6. Storing the Ice Blocks: After removing the ice blocks, store them in a suitable container or storage area to
keep them frozen until they are ready to be used.
By following these steps, you can effectively operate an ice block maker and produce high-quality ice blocks
for various applications. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for optimal
performance and efficiency.
