Latest news with #Nuffield
The Independent
5 days ago
- Science
- The Independent
Why your cup of tea could soon be grown in the UK – and be better for you
It's not every day you find yourself standing in a tea garden in Devon, surrounded by rows of Camellia sinensis – the same plant species used to make tea in India, China and Japan. But there we were, in the heart of Dartmoor, picking fresh tea leaves from plants that are thriving in the UK's cool, damp climate. It's a surprising sight, and one that could become more common. Britain may be known as a 'nation of tea drinkers', but might there be opportunities for it to increasingly be a nation of tea growers? Our research has involved working with growers in Devon and Wales to explore the chemistry of UK-grown tea. We're using a technique called 'metabolomics' to understand what's going on inside the leaves, and how different growing conditions, processing methods and even fermentation (like making kombucha) affect the final cup. Tea competes with coffee to be the UK's favourite drink, but almost all tea leaves are imported. With concerns about climate change, food security and sustainability increasing, there's growing interest in whether more food, including tea, can be grown in the UK. We chose mid-Wales and south-west England for our project because of their mild, wet climates, which are surprisingly well-suited to tea cultivation. Dartmoor, in particular, has a unique microclimate and varied soils that make it an ideal test site. There's also a strong local appetite for sustainable farming and agricultural innovation. Wales already has a tea pioneer in Lucy George, a Nuffield farming scholar who began growing tea near Cardiff in 2014. Her brand, Peterston Tea, is now sold in Welsh shops and around the world. She believes that slower growth in Wales' cooler climate may actually improve flavour, making Welsh-grown tea more than just a curiosity. What we found One of our studies used metabolomics and machine learning to explore the chemical diversity of UK-grown tea. Metabolomics involves analysing the small molecules – known as 'metabolites' – in a sample. These include sugars, amino acids and polyphenols, as well as more complex 'bioactives' like catechins and flavonoids. These types of compounds influence flavour, aroma and potential health benefits. We used method called 'direct injection mass spectrometry' to create a chemical fingerprint of each sample. Then we used machine learning to spot patterns and differences. We also looked at how the chemistry of the leaves changes depending on the time of day they're picked and how they're processed. Our findings show that tea grown in the UK has a rich and diverse chemical profile. Different varieties, picking times and processing techniques all influence the concentration of beneficial compounds like catechins and flavonoids. The other study was a human trial, which found that drinking green tea from Dartmoor with rhubarb root for 21 days significantly reduced LDL (bad) cholesterol and total cholesterol, and without disrupting the gut microbiome. This suggests that UK-grown tea could be developed into a functional food, supporting health. This product is now being sold by a tea company in Carmarthenshire, west Wales. This is exciting because it means we can tailor how we grow and process tea to enhance both its flavour and its health benefits. And it opens the door to a potential new UK-grown tea industry. It could play a part in supporting the rural economy, reduce reliance on imports and offer a more sustainable future for UK agriculture. On a global level, this kind of research helps us understand how plants respond to different environments, which is crucial for food security in a changing climate. What's next? We're now investigating how different tea varieties and processing techniques – like steaming, oxidation and novel drying methods – influence the tea's chemical make-up. These techniques could help preserve more of the beneficial compounds and make it easier to develop new tea-based products like powders or supplements. Another human study is looking at how kombucha affects well-being, memory, inflammation and stress. We're also continuing to test how different varieties of tea respond to the UK's conditions, and how we can refine growing and processing techniques to produce high-quality, health-promoting tea on home soil. As climate change reshapes what we can grow and where, tea may just become one of the UK's most unexpected and exciting new crops. Amanda Lloyd is a Researcher in Food, Diet and Health at Aberystwyth University. Nigel Holt is a Professor of Psychology at Aberystwyth University.
Irish Examiner
28-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Examiner
Nuffield Ireland calls for agri-leaders for 2026 scholarship
Applications are now open for Nuffield Ireland's 2026 scholarships. Nuffield Ireland awards up to six scholarships per year and individuals with a passion for advancing agriculture and rural communities are invited to apply for this leadership programme before August 22 this year. The scholarships encourage the development of future leaders in their industry and promotes networking through the exceptional global Nuffield Network. Successful applicants will be awarded a bursary of €18,000 towards the cost of the programme, including international travel for a minimum of 10 weeks in an 18-month period. The selected scholars must complete a written report and present their findings at the Nuffield Ireland annual conference within two years of being awarded the scholarship. Reflecting on his own experience as a scholar, Nuffield Ireland chairman Joe Leonard said: 'A Nuffield scholarship is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to develop your leadership skills, discover yourself, other cultures and agricultures, travel the world to research an important agricultural topic of your choice, all while joining an exceptional global network of top-level agribusiness leaders. It will simply change your life.' How to apply Applicants must fill in a detailed application form, provide two references and come forward with a well-thought-through research topic of their choosing. The topic must be relevant to the Irish agrifood ecosystem and aim to help improve one or more aspects of the economic, social or environmental sustainability of agri-food systems. The selection process then shortlists applicants for a preliminary competency-based interview, with those who make it through facing a final, more in-depth interview. Between three and six scholars are selected each year and are then introduced at the annual Nuffield Ireland conference, which is scheduled to take place this year on Friday, November 14. Application forms can be downloaded here and must then be filled in and forwarded to exec@ before the closing date on August 22, 2025. Read More Teagasc and Kepak host knowledge transfer event for beef discussion groups
Business News Wales
02-05-2025
- Business
- Business News Wales
Applications Open for Arwain DGC Sponsored Nuffield Farming Scholarship
Arwain DGC has announced the sponsorship of a Nuffield Farming Scholarship, offering an opportunity to undertake international research into antimicrobial stewardship. Applications are open for the '2026 Nuffield Farming Arwain DGC Scholarship', which is worth more than £15,000. The deadline for applications is July 31st, 2025, at noon. Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust is a registered charity that aims to 'inspire passion in people and develop their potential to lead positive change in farming and food.' The scholarships were first awarded in 1947, and since then, more than 1,000 scholars from the UK have undertaken travel and studies to advance agriculture. To further their knowledge and understanding of their chosen study, scholars can travel anywhere in the world for a period of no less than eight weeks. On their return, they will compile a written report along with a five-minute video and present their findings at the Annual Nuffield Farming Conference. Arwain DGC is a Welsh Government-funded programme dedicated to preventing antibiotic resistance in animals and the environment by supporting farmers and vets through data-driven decisions, innovative technologies, and best practices. Its goal is to continue to position Wales as a global leader in the fight against AMR, by nurturing collaboration, promoting innovation, and sharing knowledge, to ensure that antibiotics remain effective for animal and human health for future generations. Dewi Hughes, Arwain DGC Programme Manager, said: 'We're delighted to partner with Nuffield and offer this scholarship opportunity. I encourage anyone with an interest in antimicrobial stewardship and who wants to make a difference to animal and human health to apply for this fantastic opportunity.' 'The successful scholar will have the opportunity to travel the world and see first-hand the different approaches taken in different countries to address antimicrobial resistance. 'We hope that these invaluable insights could further help Welsh farmers and vets to reduce the need to use antibiotics, and ensure antibiotics keep working for future generations. 'We encourage anyone who is interested to contact us or contact Nuffield Farming directly to make an application. Good luck!' Applicants for the '2026 Nuffield Farming Arwain DGC Scholarship' need to study topics related to Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS). Topics could include antibiotic resistance and ways of reducing the risk, strategies that other countries are using or developing to use antibiotics responsibly, or innovation/innovation that avoids the need to use antibiotics in livestock production. Also, the scholar must live and work in Wales to be eligible for funding. For more information about the '2026 Nuffield Farming Arwain DGC Scholarship', potential applicants can contact Arwain DGC at arwaindgc@ or visit here . They can also chat with members of the Arwain DGC team who will be present at the forthcoming Royal Welsh Agriculture Society's Spring Festival (Llanelwedd May 17th & 18th) and the NSA Welsh Sheep event in Brecon on May 21st. Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust also holds regular Zoom drop-in information and Q&A sessions.
Yahoo
10-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The everyday habits that you didn't know are harming your heart
Many people are unknowingly harming their hearts through everyday habits. Ahead of Heart Awareness Month, a leading cardiologist highlighted five behaviours that could be putting your cardiovascular health at risk. From sleep to stress levels, the impact of these habits can be more significant than you think. 1. Lack of physical activity 'A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain, high cholesterol, and increased blood pressure, all of which increase your risk for cardiovascular disease,' warns Dr Christopher Broyd, consultant cardiologist at Nuffield Health Brighton Hospital. 'Regular exercise is crucial for heart health.' But there's no need to pressure yourself into hitting the gym every day – just start with small steps. 'Begin with simple activities like walking, stretching, or using a stationary bike,' recommends Broyd. 'Even short bursts of activity, such as 10-minute walks, can add up over time and gradually increase your stamina.' And, most importantly, choose activities that you enjoy. 'Whether it's dancing, swimming, cycling, or playing a team sport, finding something fun makes it easier to stay motivated,' says Broyd. 'Try to pick a time of day that works best for you and stick to it, whether it's in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening.' 2. Chronic stress Chronic stress – such as that caused by demanding jobs or family issues – can contribute to heart problems, says the cardiologist. 'Prolonged stress can negatively affect the heart by raising blood pressure and increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke,' explains Broyd. 'Stress also encourages unhealthy coping mechanisms, like overeating or smoking. 'Chronic job stress can elevate blood pressure, lead to poor eating habits, and disrupt sleep, all of which can harm heart health over time.' So, it's crucial to have effective coping strategies for managing stress. 'Regular physical activity, such as walking, yoga, or exercise, can help release built-up tension and improve mood by boosting endorphins,' says Broyd. 'Some find that mindfulness techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation can calm the mind and reduce stress levels.' 3. Not prioritising sleep 'Lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep can increase blood pressure, contribute to obesity, and disrupt the body's natural repair processes,' says Broyd. 'Sleep disorders like sleep apnoea can also significantly affect heart health.' To aid natural, restful sleep, the cardiologist recommends establishing a consistent sleep schedule. 'Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends,' advises Broyd. 'This helps regulate your body's internal clock and promotes a more consistent sleep pattern. 'Engage in calming activities before bed, such as reading and avoid stimulating activities like watching intense TV shows.' Also, try to avoid consuming too much caffeine, nicotine and/or alcohol in the evenings. 'Consuming caffeine or nicotine in the late afternoon and evening can interfere with sleep,' warns Broyd. 'Similarly, while alcohol may initially make you feel sleepy, it can disrupt your sleep cycle later in the night.' Brief bursts of intense activity, like climbing stairs or carrying heavy shopping, can significantly reduce heart health risks in women. A study found women who averaged 3.4 minutes of such activity daily had a 45% lower risk of heart attack, stroke, or heart failure. Even as little as 1.2 to 1.6 minutes daily showed a 33% lower risk of heart attack and 40% lower risk of heart failure. These short bursts of activity could be especially beneficial for women who don't engage in regular exercise. The study used data from over 80,000 people and tracked their heart health for nearly a decade. Read the article in full here 4. Not getting enough sunlight 'A lack of sunlight exposure can lead to vitamin D deficiency, which has been linked to higher blood pressure, inflammation, and an increased risk of heart disease,' says Broyd. 'Safe sun exposure or supplementation can help maintain heart health.' This is especially important in the winter months, so make sure you take advantage of breaks at work by heading outside. 'If you're working or studying indoors, take short breaks to step outside and soak up some sun,' recommends Broyd. 'Aim to get outside for at least 15-30 minutes each day, especially in the morning when the sun is less harsh. 'Take walks, sit in a park, or enjoy outdoor activities like gardening, walking the dog, or even having lunch outside.' 5. Social isolation 'Being socially isolated or feeling lonely can increase your risk of heart disease,' says Broyd. 'Studies have shown that loneliness can trigger stress, raise blood pressure, and negatively affect immune function, all of which can harm heart health.' Reach out to friends or a family member if you are feeling lonely, or consider join a new club. 'Improving social isolation takes time and effort, but by making intentional efforts to connect with others and build relationships, you can enhance your social support network and overall wellbeing and ultimately improve your heart health,' says Broyd.
