by Fern Shaw | Mar 9, 2026 | water boiler, Water Boilers, water cooler, Water Coolers, water dispenser
Building on a previous instalment from 2016, we leap forward to 2024 to find out how the British appetite has evolved over the last eight years. While the original 1970s data gave us a baseline, the recent shift from 2016 to today reveals a nation rapidly refining its palate and its priorities.
According to the latest Family Food data released by Defra, our plates tell a story of convenience, health-consciousness and a complete reimagining of the British staple.
Beyond the Pint of White
In our 2016 update skimmed milk had overtaken whole-fat. Fast forward to 2024 and the traditional dairy pint is in a steeper decline than ever. It’s no longer just about the fat content; we are now a nation of dairy alternatives. Oat, almond and soy variants have moved from niche health shop finds to fridge essentials, reflecting a broader shift toward plant-based living.
The Air Fryer Revolution
In 2016, we were buying three times more chips than in the seventies. Today, that trend continues but the cooking method has been disrupted. The meteoric rise of the air fryer since our last blog means we are still enjoying our chips, but they are increasingly prepared in a way that is healthier and quicker. The deep-fat fryer is being banished in favour of modern tech.
The Great Hydration Shift
One of the most telling changes since 2016 isn’t just what we eat, but what we choose to wash it down with. While many still swear by a proper brew, tea purchases have continued their steady slide as coffee – particularly filter coffee – is on the increase. Overall, however, there has been a significant move away from constant heavy caffeine hits in favour of pure, refreshing water.
Whether it is the ubiquity of the office water cooler or the rise of the reusable bottle, drinking water has become the ultimate lifestyle choice. The water dispenser has become the new social hub of the workplace, as we have realised that staying hydrated is the simplest productivity hack available.
A Globalised Pantry
The ‘Italianisation’ we noted previously has expanded into a truly global pantry. While tinned peas and meat paste are firmly relics of the past, our baskets are now filled with avocados, sweet potatoes and haloumi. Since 2016, these items have moved from trendy extras to weekly necessities.
So, where does that leave us? We are eating less beef, more chicken, more fresh fruit and significantly more ready-to-eat salads. The British public is striking a balance: the convenience of a quick meal accompanied by a water bottle refill from the water cooler and a side of fresh greens.
Of course, I’m still dispensing piping hot water from the office hot water boiler to make my endless mugs of tea. However, in an effort to keep up with these more health-conscious habits, I might just try to cut back on how many biscuits I dunk.
by Fern Shaw | Oct 1, 2025 | water boiler, water cooler, Water Coolers, water dispenser
Is International Coffee Day cause for celebration? We think so. (Though it’s possible your jittery enthusiasm is less ‘cheer’ and more ‘over-caffeinated’.)
Do we rank in the global coffee consumption lists?
No, we do not. Not even close. Luxembourg does. Finland does. As do Norway, Denmark and Sweden.
Okay, but if we are drinking coffee, is it good for us?
Coffee probably makes the modern world go round – and it’s been doing so since it hit the West in the 1600s. But as with all good things, the golden rule applies: everything in moderation.
That morning coffee (ideally after breakfast) is a great way to get going. But if your day is fuelled solely by creamy lattes and sugar-laden cappuccinos, the benefits of coffee can quickly get buried under the calories.
Pro tip: Pair every coffee with a drink of water to stay hydrated. Not only is it great for your body, but your skin and energy levels will thank you too.
A pre-workout coffee? Yes, really.
Many avoid coffee before exercising, thinking it’s too dehydrating. Actually, a cup of coffee before a workout can help boost fat burning, improve endurance, and reduce fatigue – just hold the honey and whipped cream.
It’s what’s inside that counts.
Coffee is packed with flavonoids, powerful antioxidants that help stop LDL cholesterol from oxidising—great news for your heart health. And if you keep it simple (read: black coffee, no sugar), your daily brew clocks in at just 2 calories. Diet-friendly and delicious.
But first … hot water.
No coffee without hot water – which is where we come in. With an AquAid water dispenser, instant hot water boilers, or boiling water taps, getting your perfect cup is effortlessly easy, whether you’re in the office, at home, or anywhere in between.
Even better? Every cup you brew helps support Christian Aid and The Africa Trust, who bring clean drinking water to communities across Africa. So, while you’re sipping your hot coffee, someone else is getting access to safe, life-changing water.
by Fern Shaw | Sep 8, 2025 | mains fed water cooler, water cooler, Water Coolers, water dispenser
In short – no, water is not an antioxidant. But it is found in drinks that do contain antioxidants, which might make it feel like a riddle. Is water pretending? Is it having an identity crisis? No, it’s just doing its job – hydrating you.
So, while antioxidants can be in water-based drinks, water itself isn’t one of them. Time to stop blaming your brain fog on chemistry confusion (but do grab a glass of water just in case).
What Are Antioxidants, Anyway?
Antioxidants are natural compounds found mostly in plant foods. Their job? To protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals – those unstable molecules that sound like something from a sci-fi film but are very real and not very helpful.
Think of antioxidants as microscopic bodyguards for your cells – keeping the peace and protecting against long-term health issues.
Antioxidants in Your Brew: Tea vs Coffee
Start your day with a hot drink? Good news: both tea and coffee are loaded with antioxidants.
All teas – especially green tea – contain flavonoids, a powerful group of antioxidants. In fact, tea is the second most consumed drink in the world after water. Green tea, in particular, is the antioxidant MVP in countries like China and Japan.
Fun fact: Studies show tea drinkers consume up to 20 times more flavonoids per day than those who skip it. Not bad for a humble cuppa.
And coffee? Also great. Research suggests it can be just as antioxidant rich as tea. So, if you’re a morning espresso fan, you’re in luck.
Can Tea and Coffee Replace Fruits and Veg?
Sorry, no. While both drinks are antioxidant-rich, they can’t replace the fibre, vitamins and broader range of nutrients found in fruits and vegetables. A balanced diet still wins.
Hot or Cold, AquAid’s Got You Coolered
Whether it’s a cup or mug of antioxidant-rich, piping hot tea, coffee or just refilling your water glass or bottle with refreshing H2O – we have the water delivery solution for you.
Water coolers, be they a bottled water dispenser or mains fed water coolers, desktop or floor standing models, a hot water boiler or Instant Taps – we have a wide range.
Not sure what you need? Contact AquAid – we’re happy to help.
graphic credit: Bryan DiSanto
by Fern Shaw | Feb 4, 2025 | water boiler, Water Boilers, water cooler, Water Coolers, water dispenser
Hot water boilers are a terrific way to get instant hot water without having to wait for a kettle to boil. They are the perfect option for any busy premises or organisation where people need quick access to hot water for tea, coffee, or indeed, any hot drinks.
Convenience. Hot water is dispensed at the touch of a button or slight handle rotation, making it faster and easier than waiting for a kettle to boil.
Energy efficient. Hot water dispensers are more energy efficient than kettles as they only heat the water needed, rather than heating a whole kettle of water at once.
Safety. Every hot water boiler has a built-in safety mechanism that prevents overheating, making them safer than a boiling kettle.
Space-saving. As a hot water boiler can be installed under a counter or in a cupboard, a substantial amount of surface area or countertop space can be saved.
Versatility: From teas, coffees, hot chocolate through to soups, pasta and ramen, dispensing piping hot water from a hot water boiler broadens your hot water drink options.
Installing a hot water dispenser also provides other, unseen, advantages too:
Increased productivity. Having instant access to hot water can help you to be more productive, as there’s no time wasted waiting for the kettle to boil.
Reduces stress levels. Making a cup of tea or coffee can be a relaxing way to take a break from work or studies. Having instant access to hot water can make this process even more enjoyable, as although you’re taking a break, you’re still not needing to wait for a kettle to boil.
Saves money. Hot water boiler dispensers offer significant savings. More energy-efficient than kettles, they also help reduce water bills.
With a range of stylish finishes to complement any environment, AquAid hot water dispensers provide instant boiling water for staff, customers, and visitors alike.
by Fern Shaw | Apr 9, 2024 | mains fed water cooler, water boiler, water cooler, Water Coolers
Today it is increasingly common to find one if not more water cooler stations in the workplace. Aside from the more obvious – making sure everyone has access to drinking water – there are several positives that not only benefit everyone but the organisation as a whole.
Why? Because keeping employees hydrated creates a set of positive outcomes, all of benefit to the entire workplace.
Crucial for physical well-being. *Dehydration can lead to an array of physical discomforts, including fatigue, muscle cramps and headaches. In particularly demanding work environments, such as construction sites or manufacturing facilities, the risk of heat-related illnesses significantly rises when employees are not adequately hydrated.
Promoting hydration at work is not just about comfort but also about ensuring the safety and well-being of your employees. By providing access to clean drinking water and encouraging regular hydration breaks, employers can reduce the risk of on-the-job accidents and promote a healthier work environment.
Increased productivity and cognitive function. Two primary negatives of dehydration are reduced cognitive ability which leads to reduced productivity. Providing your workforce easy access to a water replenishment station is the simplest and most direct route to ensuring good hydration habits.
Morale and mood boosting. Irritability, mood swings and increased stress levels are often indicators of dehydration. This can result in decreased job satisfaction and an inharmonious work environment, all which can severely affect productivity and well-being. By encouraging hydration, employers can contribute towards the improved moral and mood boosting of every individual at the workplace.
It therefore makes sense to make use of a well-established organisation with decades of experience in the supply and installation of high-quality water coolers. Be that mainsfed, bottled water coolers, hot water boilers and bottled water deliveries, AquAid are proud to be of service to more than 34,000 customers across the U.K.
*source – from an article at Corporate Wellness Magazine
