Moju co-founder Charlie Leet-Cook says functional shots is “at the real early stages” but there is “massive headroom” to grow
UK functional juice shot maker Moju embarked on its first venture outside its home market earlier this year
launching into France through an exclusive
including two of Moju’s cold-pressed variants
both available in a 420ml multi-shot ‘dosing bottle’ take-home format
Moju said the move came in response to “the rising interest from French consumers looking to incorporate functional foods
into their diets to support their health and wellbeing”
The products are already available across the country
focused on urban hubs such as Paris and Lyon in Carrefour hypermarkets
Privately-owned Moju was founded in 2015 by Charlie Leet-Cook and Rich Goldsmith
The business was financed by the founders before but receiving support from undisclosed investors
Moju refrained from disclosing its main investors
provide a breakdown of the shareholding structure or give Just Drinks detailed financial figures
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard
Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis
which it said showed Moju products are stocked at more than 12,000 points in the grocery channel
Figures from Circana showed Moju’s value sales rose 48.3% in the 52 weeks to 16 March
Just Drinks sat down with Leet-Cook to discuss the company’s expansion strategy and the emerging functional shots category
Charlie Leet-Cook (CL-C): We feel there’s a lot of opportunity in functional shots across Europe as a whole
We think there’s a lot of ubiquity in our product
What excited us most about France is the opportunity to go in and really recreate what we’ve done in the UK
It was an opportunity for us to establish and grow; we did the category defining and category building
We see a similar opportunity to do that within France
The market within France is in its sort of nascent
CL-C: The six-month exclusivity is just an opportunity for us to show our commitment to Carrefour
I think very similarly to what we’ve done in the UK
we see the opportunity to use the playbook that we’ve created
taking into account that every market has its own nuances and differences
CL-C: I think there are a lot of similarities to what we have seen in the UK
if you were to bring it back to consumer trends
And I don’t think this is France-specific
there is a trend to focus on health and well-being and on sugar reduction
Convenience is something that they are looking for
And then you’ve got fresh ingredients
And there is an increasing awareness and concern around UPS
They are really big on quality of ingredients
We see that as a brilliant fit for the Mojo brand
CL-C: We categorise our target consumer into three different buckets
The primary one is what we call the “Get through crew”
That’s the approximately 35- to 49-year-olds
and you’re just doing everything you can to get by
Anything that’s there to help support your health and well-being is a huge help
I would say that’s our primary target market in terms of consumer shopper profile
we also definitely fall in the “Get Through Crew bucket
And then we also have a slightly older demographic
who are people very much focusing on increasing health
just putting stuff into their daily consumption
very busy and committed to work but also probably more switched on and aware of what they should be consuming to maintain a healthy
CL-C: I think we’ll always stay in the health and functionality field
the focus is definitely on our current product set
we’re going out there and establishing our brand
We’ve got a very high-performing range of products
So the opportunity for us is just to go and focus on delivering them to the French market and getting the French shoppers and consumers really familiar with them
CL-C: We’re always looking to expand our distribution but I think it has to be the right distribution at the right time
how we’ve built the business within the UK
We’re very big on taking an evergreen approach
so you won’t get us ever rushing or chasing distribution
It has to be the right time to launch and win that distribution
and it’s the same approach we’re taking at the moment
We believe it’s a big contributor to why we have been so successful in the UK
We’ve just been resolutely focused in pioneering and building the category and we’re looking to do the same in France
not something that we can talk about probably right now
because we’ve literally only just launched into France but you’ll see expansion later on for sure
CL-C: Impulse was where we established our business
We built the business in independent coffee stores
independent convenience stores and independent health stores
Even though it’s a smaller part of the business and will continue to be a smaller part of the business
I think we look at the omnichannel sales approach
Each channel should have a really specific purpose and
impulse is all around driving trial and discovery
It’s a great place for shoppers to find an experience at their point of need for the first time
that boost [and] having a ginger shot is great
Or maybe you want something anti-inflammatory
Putting the product at the consumer’s point of need is really powerful
Look at the independent coffee chains as well
We also position the ginger shot as a great caffeine-free pick-me-up
You have a lot of people looking to reduce their overall caffeine intake
Then the intention for the grocery channel is for it to be our main volume driver
where people can find and experience our dosing bottles
Then we obviously have D2C as well but D2C is different
It’s a great community platform for us
penetration of the functional shots category is still very low
The big focus for us is driving trial and awareness
There’s no better way for people to experience the product and for us to sell it than for people to trial it
big thing for us and any way we can drive trial of the product
I would say functional isn’t that new either in the UK now
you’re probably looking at about half a billion [pounds]
Some [countries] tend to sort of lag behind the UK in health trends and functionals
I think maybe in the early days it’s partly going to be a challenge but that’s great because we get to go in and really lead the category and establish it
it’s a lot of hard work but it’s also a massive opportunity
I think we have proven [that] right by all that we’ve achieved to date and our growth rate
massive headroom is how I would summarise that
we think in the next two years in the UK alone
[functional shots] will be a £100m ($134.1m) category and there’s still a huge amount of headroom to go after that as well
Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights
View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network
During the week, Kiano Moju would eat Pop-Tarts
and maybe some takeout from a nearby restaurant — typical American fare
or the sautéed collard greens known as sukuma wiki or moin moin (steamed bean cakes)
Born to a Kenyan mother and a Nigerian father and raised in Northern California, Kiano grew up with roots in multiple cultures. She parlayed her love of cooking into a successful career as a creator of recipe videos for Buzzfeed. Now, she has melded her African heritage and California vibes into a cookbook… AfriCali: Recipes from My Jikoni
She also founded the Jikoni Recipe Archive
a nonprofit organization that documents African cuisine across its diaspora
Evan Kleiman: I love that you got interested in cooking from a pretty young age
Can you tell us how that happened and who guided you
Kiano Moju: My mother nurtured the interest
Once she saw me being curious and wanting to hang out in the kitchen with her
someone will teach you cooking but it's not gonna be me." She put me in a cooking camp when I was six or seven years old
the only thing I remember distinctly making was agua fresca
Like so many people who are the children of immigrants or who are immigrants themselves
you grew up with multiple identities that you hold
I wonder how that shaped your perception of food and your approach to cooking
I think having parents from two different countries
but opposite corners of the African continent
so my grandparents have a ranch where we raise cows
My dad's family in Nigeria grew up alongside a river and I tell you
if I bring seafood into my mother's family's house
whether it's from my heritage or the foods that grew up in the East Bay area
the intermarrying between certain ingredients or certain flavor combinations was very natural because I was cooking what I was around and what was new to me
It maybe wasn't until I started professionally writing recipes
I started isolating and picking things apart about what comes from where
I feel like everyone who decides they're going to write a cookbook has different motives
different ideas of what they want from the experience of writing it
and then now professionally working in food
I never had anything concrete to refer people to
AfriCali as a book is kind of my answer to it
The biggest and most important thing for me was to really focus on those African flavors that are accessible and I can put into my everyday cooking
and sharing that for folks as we talk about Third Culture folks
folks who really are either interested or grew up with those foods but don't necessarily want it to feel so far away and distant
Where does the California-ness come into it
California cuisine can mean so many things
Can you give us an example in a recipe where we can see California within your construct
One is the cultures that we have here in the state
I was very lucky that we ate globally on a regular basis because that was the food around us so some of the recipes take that influence
I have a Thai-style green curry that I grew up having
Squash is one of those vegetables that I greatly detest cutting
I have a hurdle in my mind — do I really want to go and chop that
putting green plantains in the curry that I grew up loving
So it's looking at some of those heavier dishes
and figuring out more ways to incorporate produce
Or can I have little toppings and condiments that lighten and brighten those dishes
Flavor-forward spices are balanced with coconut milk in a chickpea curry
Tell us about the origins of peri peri and how you use it with this dish
Peri peri just means chili
We like to say it twice so you don't forget
It originates from the Swahili term pilipili
because chilies came from the Americas and were brought over
the peri peri chili by the Portuguese to Southern Africa
it has some fire and it has a real kick to it
are a big part of what I shop in my regular groceries
so thinking of how I can use that spice for a fun little snack
it's a great way to incorporate that chili in something that has really built itself as an iconic dish from Southern Africa into a fun snack
I know but it's not for the lighthearted night
I intentionally did that because I personally can handle my chili medium
For 30 years, as long as I had my restaurant, every day I was making potato croquettes. I have great fondness for croquettes of all kinds, so I'm intrigued by your Mukimo Croquettes. What is mukimo
Those who probably grew up in the Kenyan school system see it as a school food
I spent a lot of summers in Kenya [when I was] growing up
Some people use leaves from different pumpkins and squashes
I use spinach because it's what we have most available
That's another new world ingredient that is a really strong presence in Kenyan cooking
and the pieces of maize tormented me as a child
are you talking about a type of corn that isn't as sweet as what we're familiar with
usually sold in the full ears of the maize
My grandmother always had a big storehouse of maize on her ranch
Did you decide to substitute the maize in your dish
is pretty hard to get your hands on but also very time-intensive to cook
I feel like people get impatient with it and just thinking of a creamy mashed potato with hard little chunks of corn in it was not fun for me today or when I was a kid
They bring in that same sweetness but they require basically no additional cooking
You still get that balance of flavor without all the labor of cooking down a whole year of maize
Could you talk a bit about East African curries and how they differ from the curries of Thailand and India
Kenya sits on the Indian Ocean so there's a huge spice trade influenced by India and the Middle East
they're going to have those very forward spices that are balanced out by coconut milk but also have a really strong presence of aromatics
which you would find a lot in Thai-style curries
The spices are there but maybe not as forward as an Indian style curry
And you do one that is chickpeas in coconut sauce
I use chickpeas but you can use lentils or beans
where you have this gentle spiced coconut sauce with loads of aromatics
the main thing with that curry is a pairing
We like using chapati but it's that combination of having something cozy yet saucy enough that you can dip your bread into
It's that experience together that makes the curry really special
In AfriCali, you have three separate recipes involving ugali. Can you explain what it is and pick one recipe to focus on, maybe the Sukuma Wiki with ugali.
It's so funny, I didn't even notice that ugali appears 80,000 times but I don't think I ever give a recipe for it because it's one of those things that are so like, "Put cornmeal in water and you have ugali." It's so straightforward. But Sukuma Wiki is sauteed collard greens. It is everyday food. In a Kenyan household, you will find this cooked a couple times a week, minimum.
When it comes to curries, there are two main classes: aromatic curries, common in Thailand, and spice curries, common in India. The curries found on the East African coast seem to balance the two, where aromatics are sizzled with a conservative amount of spice before swimming in creamy coconut milk. This recipe can work with any canned bean or lentil and is best enjoyed with rice or flatbread.
Drain and rinse the chickpeas. Set aside. Finely chop the onion and place into a small bowl. Finely chop the bell pepper and add to the same bowl.
Heat the avocado oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the onion and bell pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened and is lightly golden on the edges, 3 to 4 minutes. Meanwhile, thinly slice the green onions.
Add the green onions, garlic ginger paste, and cumin seeds to the pot, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste, garam masala, chili flakes, paprika, turmeric, and 1 teaspoon salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomato paste darkens, 2 to 3 minutes.
Slowly stir in the coconut milk until the tomato paste dissolves. Then stir in the chickpeas and chicken stock. Season with salt to taste, allow to come to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 10 minutes.
Roughly chop the cilantro (leaves and stems). When ready to serve, turn off the heat, and stir in the cilantro, reserving a few leaves for garnish. Serve in bowls garnished with the reserved cilantro leaves, and enjoy with the chapati, grains, or any kind of flatbread.
"AfriCali: Recipes from My Jikoni" answers the questions recipe developer Kiano Moju gets regarding her cultural identity. Photo courtesy of Simon & Schuster, LLC.
On the 20th anniversary of Sideways, Hitching Post owner Frank Ostini reflects on the Santa Ynez Valley.
Filmmaker Jason Wise joins Vahe Keushguerian in a conversation about making wine from Iranian grapes for the first time in half a century.
Maanvi Singh reports on corporations buying up water rights, often in drought-stricken areas, and selling them to other communities, sometimes hundreds of miles away.
At the farmers market, chef Dan Barber visits with Alex Weiser who is growing a new allium — garleek.
Growing up in Northern California with a Kenyan mother and Nigerian father, Kiano Moju celebrates her family's AfriCali cuisine.
Good Food’s Evan Kleiman delivers local-first missives from our vibrant food community.
The best of what to see, hear, eat, do, and more.
Get the latest from KCRW in your inbox 3x a week.
#comp-lvqlknop_r_comp-lwwdvtpl__item1 {aspect-ratio: 1;}The Plant BaseThe Plant Base is the go to B2B news platform for the plant-based food and beverage industry
RefreshmentRefreshment is your ultimate resource for staying informed and up-to-date on the water cooler
The Cell BaseThe Cell Base provides insights for professionals to stay informed
exchange ideas and explore new cell-based opportunities
SubscribeAccess more as a FoodBev subscriberSign up to FoodBev and unlock more insights from the international food and beverage industry. Subscribers have access to webinars, newsletters, publications and more...
Danone leads investment in functional shot maker Moju
Moju has raised £2.5 million in a funding round led by Danone’s venture arm
marking the first UK-based investment for Danone Manifesto Ventures (DMV)
The round also received participation from new and existing investors
including professional footballer Hector Bellerin
Butternut Box founders Dave Nolan and Kevin Glynn
former COOs of Graze and Hello Fresh respectively
DMV has made a minority investment in the company
which plans to use proceeds from the round to accelerate the growth of its functional shots platform
Moju offers a range of functional shots that aim to provide “alternatives to refreshment-led formats that are heavily compromised by sugar and artificial ingredients”
The brand’s offerings come in a ready-to-drink 60ml shot format and 500ml multi-serve ‘dosing’ bottles
and include a recently launched prebiotic option
“The past year has been incredibly tough for the UK
We feel privileged to be in a position where
with the support of a new group of investor partners
we can invest across every channel of the business
drive innovation and enhance sustainable sourcing,” said Rich Goldsmith
“We’re building on the momentum our awesome team generated in 2020
and we’re super excited to accelerate out of the other side of the pandemic where we can help people from all walks of life to optimise their health and daily performance through better nutrition
all whilst reducing our footprint through more sustainable ways of doing business.”
added: “Moju is a thriving omnichannel business with a smart and strong team that are addressing the fast-emerging consumer needs for natural functional and experiential products
We are excited to be partnering with the team on their next phase of growth.”
Get in touchWould you like to be interviewed by FoodBev Media or share a recent innovation with us?
Click here to contact us
“AfriCali: Recipes From My Jikoni” author Kiano Moju treks all over LA for the boldest bites
If you buy something from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy
Before Kiano Moju moved to Los Angeles in 2013
and new cookbook author embraced a more Americanized version of Thai food
Sticky sweet noodles and cloying curries were all she knew during her college years on the East Coast
Everything changed when she ventured from Buzzfeed’s Hollywood offices and into one of Los Angeles’s most celebrated regional Thai restaurants Luv2Eat
“The Thai food I had up until that point was a scam,” she says with a perfectly straight face
(Jikoni is the Swahili word for kitchen.) The book explores Moju’s African heritage (her parents are from Nigeria and Kenya)
and international travels with over 85 recipes
Moju’s approach to home cooking while living in Los Angeles is captured in AfriCali’s 258 pages accompanied by vibrant photography by Kristin Teig
Eater sat down with Moju during her national book tour to find out where she likes to shop, eat, and drink in Los Angeles. And for the record, Moju’s love for Los Angeles goes beyond its unrivaled Thai restaurant scene
Eater: Where did you live when you first moved to Los Angeles
I was very accustomed to my life being walkable
This is a recurring theme in my LA life: building a walkable base without too much driving
Beverly Hills has a lot of shopping and restaurants
Once I started finding LA Thai restaurants
Luv2Eat was closest to the Buzzfeed offices and I shot a video with [owners and chefs] Noree Pla and Fern Kaewtathip
Have you experienced any ‘AfriCali’ cooking in Los Angeles
The closest is Two Hommes because Yaw Marcus Johnson and Abdoulaye Balde are AfriCali too
they’re the best at bringing traditional flavors and dishes
But they aren’t married to tradition and put their spin on the food
There is a lack of Kenyan food in LA and the country
there are plenty of restaurants in San Diego
What’s your current favorite restaurant in Los Angeles
Si! Mon
It has a Mexico City approach in the former James Beach
the way the dishes are composed — everything about Si
What neighborhoods do you venture to for dining out
Arts District: I appreciate Afuri Ramen for branching away from tonkotsu
It’s nice to have Ditroit Taqueria without hopping on a plane to Mexico City
Culver City: If a dinner party host isn’t making dessert, picking up a seasonal fruit pie from a bakery like Fat + Flour is such a clutch move
Hollywood: LA has so many amazing bread bakeries, but I’m not waiting in line for bread. I go to Pace Joint on Sunset and Fairfax
Pace makes ciabatta and a ciabatta baguette from its pizza dough
there was nowhere I could find jollof that I didn’t cook myself
It’s not a dish you can make in small quantities
They have the most fantastic biscuits on the brunch menu
Little Ethiopia: Meals by Genet is my number one recommendation
The attention and care [owner Genet Agonafer] has with her dishes is something I’ve never experienced with the dozens of LA Ethiopian restaurants I’ve been to
How does Los Angeles’s African food scene compare to the East Bay’s
Both have a strong Ethiopian food culture. LA surpasses the Bay with a stronger dining-in culture. The biggest difference is comfort and familiarity. People in LA love trying new things. In the Bay, people go to places like Asmara
What Los Angeles restaurants are worth braving traffic for
Si! Mon and Two Hommes. I’m truly obsessed with Mini Kabob — the traffic there and back is always bad [but] I want that lule all the time. I think we’ve had every smash burger in LA. Consistently, For The Win is great
What’s your favorite LA market for African ingredients
For most of my cooking, 90 percent of what I make can come from any grocery store. For Nigerian food: Dora African Produce. The Original Farmers Market’s Original Farm Fresh Produce always has perfectly ripe plantains
Bangluck Market — I have a chicken green curry with plantain recipe in my book inspired by Luv2Eat
What’s the LA meal you miss most while on your book tour
I’ll be very intentional with this book tour by trying contemporary African restaurants
This interview has been edited for length and clarity
A post shared by Kiano Moju (@kianomoju)
Functional shot brand MOJU has launched a new 17-week multichannel advertising campaign
Following MOJU’s 2023 Channel 4 Breakfast Sponsorship
the brand is stepping up its activity with a bolder
MOJU will expand into new broadcast channels with new 20’ and 10’ TV spots running across ITV and Sky
aimed at further cementing MOJU’s association with the morning occasion
Building on MOJU’s ‘WAKE SHAKE BOOM’ creative platform
the three-word mnemonic is designed to instruct consumers
helping them to develop a daily morning ritual that’s easy to keep
and the brand’s infamous ‘shot face’ reaction
the TV campaign aims to dramatise the product experience that is ‘so good
Developed in conjunction with creative agency
the campaign will be seen by an estimated 85% of UK adults
bringing MOJU’s distinctive boom to an additional 17.5 million consumers compared to last year’s campaign
MOJU is also set to make its debut on radio with its first airtime ads on stations including Absolute Radio
MOJU will also sponsor its first radio segment
teaming up with “5 Words 5 Grand” hosted by Dave Berry on Absolute Radio
MOJU is planning poster advertising in major cities in the New Year alongside a sampling programme that will offer shots to commuters and office workers
The campaign will be supported with social
The increased marketing investment coincides with MOJU’s strong growth and increasing national distribution footprint
now available in more than 11,500 stocking points
With a 55% volume share of the functional shots category it created
it continues to shake up the juice and smoothie category
driving 50% of the total functional shot sub-category volume growth with its shots
said: “Our mission at MOJU is simple; help people live with more mojo
powered by nature’s most potent and nutritious ingredients
Our new TVC and radio campaign really brings this idea to life
and after the huge success of our Channel 4 Breakfast partnership in 2023
we’re really excited to attract a new wave of prospective shotters with this campaign
“Our creative platform; ‘WAKE SHAKE BOOM’ has proved to be a big hit with consumers
and I’m proud of how the team have amplified this across new media channels and creative
whilst further solidifying our proposition in the market”
Moju is spicing things up this winter season with its latest variant - Moju Spicy Piña Immunity
The new variant will feature within the brand’s ‘Immunity Blends’ sub range
sitting alongside Moju’s Hot Mango flavour
which has been successful at driving a new
now achieving 80% of the ROS of the brand’s hero ginger shot
nutrient-rich greens including chlorella and spinach
fresh Peruvian ginger root and a hint of jalapeño
Each 60ml shot delivers a natural source of vitamin C and the NHS-recommended daily intake of 10µg of vitamin D3
CEO & Co Founder at Moju says: “Our new Spicy Piña shot is bold in flavour and straightforward in ingredients
delivering a powerful hit of natural immune support when people need it most
We’re very grateful to our loyal consumers who played a key role in co-developing this product with us
Their feedback helped us create Spicy Piña as a big flavour hitting alternative to heavily processed
Register today to gain unlimited access to articles and to receive our great range of email newsletters
Register now
Site powered by Webvision Cloud
MOJU is giving one lucky winner the freshest way to kickstart their day - a three-month subscription of potent
caffeine-free way to kickstart your day with a simple routine that’s irresistibly easy to keep
Delivering five bottles a month (1x Ginger
and with a flavour available for every function and taste
now’s your chance to discover your new favourite
Bauer Consumer Media Ltd, Company number 01176085; Bauer Radio Limited, Company number: 1394141; Registered office: Media House, Peterborough Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough PE2 6EA and H Bauer Publishing, Company number: LP003328; Registered office: The Lantern, 75 Hampstead Road, London NW1 2PL
All registered in England and Wales. VAT no 918 5617 01
H Bauer Publishing are authorised and regulated for credit broking by the FCA (Ref No: 845898)
Moju spices up functional shot range with newest launch
British functional shot brand Moju has introduced a new ‘fiery’ innovation
🍍🌶️ Developed in response to increasing consumer demand sweet and spicy flavour fusions in F&B
Spicy Piña Immunity is a bold and spicy flavourful shot that provides daily immune support
The new variant is part of Moju’s ‘Immunity Blends’ range and joins its existing Hot Mango flavour
It contains greens including chlorella and spinach
Each 60ml shot delivers vitamin C and the NHS-recommended daily intake of vitamin D3
It addresses a common winter challenge in the UK – vitamin D deficiency caused by limited sunlight and insufficient dietary intake
commented: “Our new Spicy Piña shot is bold in flavour and straightforward in ingredients
The new Spicy Piña shots are available to purchase on the Moju website
as well as at Ocado and Planet Organic stores across the UK
We've got all the backstage moments at Capital's Jingle Bell Ball with Barclaycard 2024 that you won't want to miss
Whether you headed to The O2 to experience the UK's biggest Christmas party live in the flesh or live-streamed the performances on Global Player
we've got you covered on all the backstage moments from the festive weekend
as we documented behind-the-scenes at The O2 including everything from all the star-studded run-ins and dressing-room glimpses to the best drinks and snacks our Ballers could ever dream of
Tom Grennan and so many more in these very seats
See more More News
Love Island
TV & Film
See more Exclusive Videos
Rihanna
One Direction
News
Dua Lipa
See more Featured Artists
By James Beeson2024-12-03T09:04:00+00:00
Moju has added a Spicy Piña shot in a dosing format
The NPD would tap into rising demand for a “fusion of sweet and spicy flavours” in food and drink
It was “supercharged with powerful, nutrient-rich greens including chlorella and spinach, along with a tasty hit of pineapple, fresh Peruvian ginger root and a hint of jalapeño,” added the functional health shot brand
Each 60ml shot delivered “a natural source of vitamin C and the NHS-recommended daily intake of 10µg of vitamin D3
Spicy Piña will sit alongside Hot Mango in Moju’s ‘Immunity Blends’ sub-range
Hot Mango had been successful in driving new “shot curious” consumers to the category
adding the line had now achieved “80% of the ROS” of its flagship Ginger variant
“Our new Spicy Piña shot is bold in flavour and straightforward in ingredients
delivering a powerful hit of natural immune support when people need it most,” said Moju co-founder Rich Goldsmith
Spicy Piña was “a big flavour hitting alternative to heavily processed
The NPD comes with Moju sales up 51.7% to £21.1m [NIQ 52 w/e 7 September 2024]
to comment on this article
Learn moreExplore related questionsDiscover more about the topics that matter most
Browse our suggested questions or ask your own to find out more
The recipe from Kiano Moju’s ‘AfriCali’ cookbook is an ode to the coastal cuisine of Kenya
“AfriCali” was the one word that Kiano Moju used to describe her culinary identity
“There was a small music movement back in the day called Africali and I really identified with the term
I thought it was a succinct way to describe my culinary point of view.”
That point of view was shaped by Moju’s upbringing in the Bay Area as well as the summers she would spend in Kenya on her maternal grandparents’ Maasai ranch
she would participate in every aspect of life on the farm
which included butchering and processing goats and cooking in a traditional kitchen over firewood
“Everything was very much as old school as it got
so I really got to learn the fundamentals of food and cooking while there,” Moju says
international flavors: Eritrean food in Oakland
and claypot rice from her local Vietnamese restaurant all provided eye-opening experiences
So when it came time to write — and title — her debut cookbook
it wasn’t hard for Moju to think of a title — or a way to describe her cooking
AfriCali: Recipes from My Jikoni is a celebration of Moju’s roots in Kenya and Nigeria but also a modern approach to African cuisine using prized produce from California
There are stories and recipes from Moju’s childhood but also riffs of classic African dishes that Moju has tasted on her travels throughout the continent
What Moju feels people get wrong about African cuisine is that cooking it is intimidating
is we don’t like stress at all in the kitchen,” she says
“So I’ve always gravitated towards recipes that are as uncomplicated as I can make them without ever sacrificing flavor.” Although cuisine from the coast of Kenya may feel far away
Moju emphasizes that the ingredients can still be approachable — and found at major grocery stores in the U.S
Take her recipe for Swahili chicken biriyani
a comforting meal universally loved and reinterpreted across the globe
Although you might not necessarily think of biriyani (also commonly spelled “biryani”) as an African dish
the trade routes along the Indian Ocean carried this recipe to shore
where the people of the Swahili coast reimagined it to suit their own tastes
“I think we are so used to looking at cuisine as like
but well before these countries even existed people have been trading with each other,” Moju says
The Swahili version of biriyani that Moju first tried in Mombasa is much saucier than its Indian counterpart
The spiced basmati rice is tinged yellow with saffron and drowned in a gravy made from succulent chicken thighs
The finishing touch is a crown of freshly fried shallots
Moju’s biggest tip for making this version of chicken biriyani is to use a wide enough pot so steam can escape and the sauce can reduce
And if you can’t be bothered to fry the shallots yourself
you can always pick up a jar of fried shallots at the store
“I want people to understand that these flavors can be a part of your everyday cooking,” Moju says
“And this cookbook is showcasing recipes that do just that.”
2½ cups basmati rice 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt 2 tablespoons Garlic Ginger Paste2 tablespoons Butcher’s MasalaJuice of 1 lemon Fine sea salt 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs 6 shallots or 1 medium red onion 2 fresh medium hot chile peppers
such as serrano or Fresno 4 medium tomatoes Handful fresh cilantro 1 cup neutral oil
such as avocado or peanut oil 2 tablespoons tomato paste 10 cardamom pods Saffron or ground turmeric
and allow to sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator
Step 2: Thinly slice the shallots and chile peppers (remove the seeds for a milder flavor)
Roughly chop the cilantro (leaves and stems)
Step 3: Fill a medium pot with 1 inch of oil and heat over medium-high heat
Prepare a plate lined with paper towels and set beside the stove
remove the shallots and place on the paper towel–lined plate to drain
Step 4: Heat ¼ cup of the reserved shallot oil in a wide braising dish or Dutch oven over medium heat
Add half the sliced chiles and all the diced tomatoes
Cover with a lid and cook until the tomatoes have broken down
Add the marinated chicken and half the fried shallots
until the chicken has cooked and the sauce thickens
remove the lid to let the sauce thicken further
wash the rice under cold water until the water runs nearly clear
This step may need to be repeated two or more times until the water is mostly clear
Transfer the washed and drained rice to a medium pot (you can use the same pot as the shallots)
and cook until all the water has been absorbed
Mix the saffron with 2 tablespoons of hot water
Once the water has been absorbed by the rice
and let steam for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork
create a base layer of rice on a large serving platter
Top with the reserved fried shallots and sliced chiles
⅓ pound whole fresh ginger ⅓ pound (about 30) garlic cloves ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months
1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon fine sea salt ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
and cinnamon in a small airtight container
Photography Copyright © 2023 by Kristin Teig
the Eater and Heritage Steel 6-quart rondeau is wide enough to help intensify flavors in liquids
but also deep enough to effectively braise or poach
Functional shot brand MOJU has unveiled its latest product
which includes 25.4g of high-quality Peruvian ginger root
Originally launched as a Limited Edition in 2020
the Extra Strength variant quickly became a fan favourite
Its success led to the full-scale launch of the 420ml Dosing Bottle format in 2022
becoming the brand’s most successful NPD to date
with a rate of sale competing with that of the brand’s original Ginger shot
as well as being Ocado’s best performing ‘branded NPD launch in chilled juice’ of 2023/2024
The new on-the-go 60ml shot format will launch in Sainsbury’s at the end of this month and Waitrose
Planet Organic and Whole Foods in early October
The launch follows on from the brand’s successful Poker Face Challenge at the beginning of the year
which demonstrated the uniquely potent punch of the brand’s hero fresh root ingredient by dramatising the product experience of the Extra-Strength Ginger
Collaborating with brands and businesses across LinkedIn and content creators on Instagram and TikTok
the campaign reached over 1.7 million consumers
we pack the power of nature’s most potent ingredients into every shot
and our Extra Strength version is as fierce as they come
The 60ml single shot delivers our spiciest hit of fresh root Peruvian ginger
giving a quick and extra fiery boost that’s a lot more convenient
tasty and sociable than chewing on a big chunk of ginger root.”
Healthy shot brand Moju’s impactful physical marketing and brand activations are planned across the UK
ALREADY HAVE A REGISTERED USER ACCOUNT? PLEASE LOG IN HERE
Registration is quick and easy and provides access to:
Register for free
By James Beeson2024-09-02T08:33:00
Radio idents will feature across stations including Absolute Radio
Already have an account? Sign in here
Already have an account? Sign in here
With the launch of Spicy Piña in its Immunity Blends range
the UK’s original and number one functional shot brand
are spicing things up this winter season with their latest fresh & fiery innovation – MOJU Spicy Piña Immunity
As the brand continues to see significant growth in interest for natural ingredients that pack an efficacious punch
and with demand for the fusion of sweet and spicy flavours in the food & drink space growing
Spicy Piña Immunity brings a unique twist to the greens landscape
With ¼ of consumers noting a lack of taste and crave-ability in existing greens offerings[1]
MOJU is here to shake things up with this bold and spicy yet taste bud popping flavour that provides daily immune support in its 420ml Dosing Bottle at home format
The exciting new variant will feature within the brand’s ‘Immunity Blends’ sub range
sitting alongside MOJU’s Hot Mango flavour
now achieving 80% of the ROS of the brand’s hero Ginger shot[2]
naturally sourced fresh-pressed ingredients have played a key role within the product development
iterating and optimising the blend of ingredients based on direct consumer feedback from MOJU’s DTC customers throughout the process
consumers can expect the spicy kick that has become synonymous with the MOJU shot experience
This fresh and spicy solution addresses a common winter challenge in the UK—vitamin D deficiency caused by limited sunlight and insufficient dietary intake—helping consumers stay healthier and more energised during the colder months
CEO & Co Founder at MOJU says: “Our new Spicy Piña shot is bold in flavour and straightforward in ingredients
Having pre-launched exclusively with DTC customers on the MOJU website
it will be available to purchase at Ocado & Planet Organic from early December 2024 and Waitrose shortly after that from 5th February
Grocery Trader is the bi-monthly magazine for the UK multiple grocery industry
It is distributed in both printed and digital formats to named senior buyers and trading directors within the UK supermarkets
Co-ops and convenience store chains and other key grocery organisations
© Grandflame Ltd - All Rights Reserved
Terms & Conditions
In the first of a new series looking at how brands are addressing category challenges to grow
not only of a new brand but an entirely new category
Launching a new brand in any category is challenging
In highly penetrated sectors such as beer or tech
where there are lots of very well-known brands
But they are both familiar categories that most of the adult population have bought from at some point in their life
Telling consumers about a new brand in a category they’ve never heard of comes with a whole new set of challenges
there might be plenty of white space and room to drive penetration
brands launching into new categories may face a consumer that is both unfamiliar with their brand
Buy today to continue reading
first had to educate consumers about the product before turning its attention to brand
Discounting has been a big focus for communications in the recipe box category
but now HelloFresh is breaking away from the norm
and instead looking to establish more long-term relationships with customers
Brands in emerging categories often have to be disruptive in how they approach product
price and place to create value in unchartered territory
After winning the Premier League last Sunday
Liverpool FC’s senior vice-president of digital says the work for marketing is building up to an “even bigger crescendo”
offering our view on what they mean for you and the industry
From Motorway’s CMO and CFO making their relationship a strategic partnership to Coca-Cola highlighting its “localness” in light of geopolitical tensions
The travel industry often finds it easier to “default to visual”
but Expedia says the majority of households it reaches via audio are not reached by any other channel
CEO Brian Chesky says a paid membership scheme like Amazon Prime would be more “compelling” for the travel brand than a points-based programme
By James Beeson2024-07-10T09:05:00
Both Dalton and Street will report into CEO Rich Goldsmith
2021Photograph by Jasmine DurhalAll products featured on Bon Appétit are independently selected by our editors
we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links
takes us through a day of African house-fueled dance parties
As a multi-hyphenate who approaches the culinary world through many lenses
from recipe development to video production and photography
Moju decided to build a studio to house all her pursuits
she and her team create and consult on branded food content
and rent out their on-site kitchen studios for photo and video shoots
which sources dishes from a global community of gourmands and brings them to life through interviews and step-by-step videos
The venture spoke to one of Moju’s central missions: celebrating traditionally underrepresented voices and cultures in food media
she’s often been met with blank eyes when talking about the cuisine of her heritage
“I hate speaking about the food of Sub-Saharan Africa as a monolith
but that’s how big the gap of culinary knowledge is about this region in other parts of the world,” she explains
Moju has fought to highlight marginalized food cultures
rejecting the all-too-common practice of relegating the limelight to holidays or heritage months
When I first connected with Kiano in June 2020
Jikoni’s single kitchen space had gone dark
thronging studios and an ever expanding team
Perched at her desk in the airy test kitchen
I sleep with my blinds open and have so much energy when I wake up
which is usually between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m
My go-to is sautéed spinach with a clove of garlic and some eggs scrambled in; toast on the side if I have it
Treating myself at the start of the day makes me feel like I’m walking on clouds
I don’t like to feel tortured while working out
which features African house artists like Burna Boy and WizKd
My top track on the list is “Come We Bill Ehh” by Midas the Jagaban
will usually make a big pot of Kenyan chai and put it in a thermos so everyone can have some tea when they arrive
I’m on my computer for 30 minutes and then we’re in the studio making sure our clients are well taken care of
I’m busy at my desk with interviews and business plans
interrupted by occasional trips to the test kitchen for a snack
We’re in the Arts District in Downtown L.A.
so I might walk around the block and try to get out somewhere—maybe check out some graffiti in the neighborhood
Work takes up such a huge chunk of our days
I want to build everyday life into the workplace
rather than making it a place you have to break away from
I try to encourage my team to have walking meetings when computers aren’t needed
I’ll forage in the fridge for test kitchen leftovers and add them to a base of curry paste
Claire and I will do office hours on Clubhouse
“Are you a food content creator that feels stuck on something
Talk to us and we’ll try to workshop it with you.” Those conversations are incredibly energizing because they are a tangible reminder of our mission and feel more like in-person interactions
The hard part about being an entrepreneur is not losing sight of why you started what you’re doing
so much of what we do is grounded in the everyday—everyday people
The motivations come frequently and they come from everywhere
I’ll have snacks for dinner—a couple bites of something
While cleaning my skin, I usually brew my evening rooibos tea, and then I’ll watch some YouTube videos while I sip. I gravitate toward channels that show how people around the world live. The topics can vary from the history and culture of different African regions, interviews, or home tours. Then, I drift off to bed early, feeling peaceful and prepared for tomorrow.
MOJU is back to bring even more BOOM with new multi-million-pound ATL campaign
is set to wake up the nation this autumn with its new 17-week campaign
the multichannel campaign will continue to establish MOJU as the UK’s favourite way to kickstart the day
helping busy consumers seek out the brand’s notoriously punchy shots as their go to daily pick-me-up
Following the success of MOJU’s 2023 Channel 4 Breakfast Sponsorship
the brand is stepping up its activity to shake up even more mornings with a bolder
further cementing MOJU’s association with the morning occasion
Building on the award-winning ‘WAKE SHAKE BOOM’ creative platform
MOJU continues to shake up the market with bold and memorable advertising
The punchy three-word mnemonic is designed to instruct consumers
the TV campaign aims to dramatise the uniquely craveable product experience that is ‘so good
MOJU is also set to make its debut on radio with its first airtime ads
bringing its natural boom to popular stations including Absolute Radio
targeting the morning and mid-afternoon slump with its notorious caffeine-free kick
In keeping with the brand’s light-hearted approach
teaming up with the popular “5 Words 5 Grand” hosted by Dave Berry on Absolute Radio
This punchy partnership promises to revitalise listeners nationwide with a powerful dose of morning mojo
MOJU will shake up the streets across London and Manchester
alongside high impact poster advertising in new regions across Leeds
230,000 free sample shots will help give commuters and office workers a much-needed pick-me-up
The increased marketing investment coincides with MOJU’s phenomenal growth and increasing national distribution footprint
now available in more than 11,500* stocking points
With a 55% volume share** of the functional shots category it created
it continues to shake up the juice and smoothie’s category
driving 50%** of the total functional shot sub-category volume growth with its craveable punchy shots
MOJU’s Marketing Director said: “Our mission at MOJU is simple; help people live with more mojo
Our creative platform; ‘WAKE SHAKE BOOM’ has proved to be a big hit with consumers
said: “I was always taught that three words make for a great poster
it’s hard to avoid the impact of the rule of three on the streets
WAKE SHAKE BOOM packs a huge punch in just Three
Business Director at Bicycle said: “We have loved working with MOJU to grow and evolve their Wake Shake Boom campaign for the third year running
It perfectly encapsulates Bicycle’s ‘Power of and’ proposition
and efficiency and effectiveness to deliver the most impactful campaign yet
We can’t wait to see MOJU boom back onto our TV screens in September!”
Bauer Media Advertising said: “It’s fantastic to see MOJU expand into the realm of radio with this new campaign and
collaborate together with us on its very first radio sponsorship
Not only will the audio component complement and boost the creative across TV and OOH
engaged and trusted audiences across the UK
“5 Words 5 Grand” is one of our most popular on-air games
with 2.2m listeners tuning into the Dave Berry Breakfast Show every week.”
Find out more: mojudrinks.com
Follow the journey: @mojudrinks
With the launch of the MOJU Extra Strength Ginger 60ml shot
the UK’s number one functional shot brand
are turning up the heat this September with their latest product
With this latest offering cramming an eye-watering 25.4g of the highest quality fresh Peruvian ginger root into every shot
consumers are set to get an extra fiery kick with this super root boost
the Extra Strength variant quickly became a fiery fan favourite
Its success led to the full-scale launch the of the 420ml Dosing Bottle format in 2022
becoming the brand’s most successful NPD to date
with rate of sale competing with that of the brand’s original Ginger shot
the hyper convenient 60ml shot format offer consumers the opportunity to add some more BOOM to their routine wherever they go
The launch follows on from the brand’s successful Poker Face Challenge at the beginning of the year
which demonstrated the uniquely potent punch of the brand’s hero fresh root ingredient by dramatising the product experience of the Extra-Strength Ginger
Collaborating with brands and business across LinkedIn and content creators on Instagram and TikTok
the campaign reached over 1.7 million with an extra fiery kick
CEO & Co Founder at MOJU says: “At MOJU
we pack the power of nature’s most potent ingredients into every shot
giving a quick and extra fiery boost that’s a lot more convenient
The 60ml format will hit the shelves of Sainsburys at the end of September
Planet Organic and Whole Foods early October
“My whole life, we’ve done it this way,” says Moju. “Every holiday meal, we always have two different meats, because if we just have one, someone will feel slighted or upset. It also just seems like a normal day if we have one. And no, chicken doesn’t count.”
Moju lives in West Hollywood and is half Kenyan Maasai and half Nigerian. Her cooking reflects both sides of her heritage, plus where she lives now, in a style of cooking she calls “Afri-Cali.” Nowhere else can you see that in full effect than in her family’s Christmas feast, a blend of East African dishes customized with California ingredients and touched with flavors from West Africa.
“I’m not one for eating things for the sake of tradition if I’m not enjoying it,” says Moju, a former Buzzfeed/Tasty video producer who runs a food video production studio called Jikoni in downtown’s Arts District. “One year, I flavored short ribs with just salt and pepper; the next year, I used Ethiopian berbere spices. But whatever we have, everyone chips in, showing up throughout the day to help prepare the food — it’s a culture of social cooking.”
Family traditionsMoju was born in Oakland and spent every other summer while growing up on her family’s ranch in the mountainous village of Sultan Hamud, Kenya, about 70 miles southeast of Nairobi. After high school, she’d make the trip every other winter, allowing her to spend Christmas with her family there. Moju says Christmases on the ranch are very different from the holiday celebrated in the United States and other parts of the world.
“With Kenyan people, we only have one way of celebrating anything, whether it’s a wedding, funeral or Christmas — all of the celebrations and menu are the same,” Moju says. “Because I come from a traditional Maasai family, something is getting slaughtered. We were a nomadic tribe, so our cows would go where we go, and we survived a long time by surviving off the blood of them. The only time you’re slaughtering a cow is for a large holiday like Christmas or a coming-of-age ceremony.
For Christmas morning, she’ll whip up a batch of mandazi, triangular doughnuts raised with baking powder that she flavors with cardamom and cinnamon. Once the mandazi are fried, she blankets them in powdered sugar.
“This version is more akin to how they do them in coastal Kenya, which is heavily influenced by Indian and Middle Eastern food,” she says. “I make mine with coconut milk and coarse ground cardamom to get pops of spices. Normally, they’re sweeter and served plain, but they remind me of New Orleans-style beignets, so I take the sweetness down in the dough so I can cover them with powdered sugar, which is the best part of eating them — I do live in America, after all.”
This Christmas, Moju is tackling sticky toffee pudding, a dessert that fulfills her love for cake and ice cream and is easy to eat on the couch, a family tradition.
A rolex, ready to be rolled around Moju’s favorite filling: bacon, tomato and avocado. (Silvia Razgova/For The Times) And when it comes to stuffing it, Moju says to use whatever you like — she prefers avocado and bacon — but to keep one thing in mind: This is not a burrito.
“We’re not centering the filling, then rolling,” she says. “You want to lay everything out evenly, then roll so it’s an even spiral when you cut it in half — that’s a cute rolex.”Everyone welcomeFor Moju, these dishes are the beginnings of her own traditions, a collection of hybrid-culture foods that appeal to her tastes as well as those of her entire family. They’re also a bridge to both sides of her culture, for which she is the sole connector.
“Kenyan food and Nigerian food are completely opposite in so many ways. Kenyans love grilled red meat, while Nigerians love seafood and slow-simmered stews. Both sides of my family don’t like the other’s cooking,” she says with a laugh, “so I’m the go-between in my family — I tie the two cultures together.”
And Christmastime affords her the opportunity, much like her family’s holiday celebrations in Kenya, to show off her cooking for everyone who comes to her table.
“This is my American family Christmas,” says Moju. “Ninety percent of my family lives overseas, so every other year, a grandparent will come; sometimes a cousin and their family. One year, my mom invited a Kenyan kid who went to UC Berkeley, and I always brought friends home from school. It’s the core family, plus anyone else who needs to be somewhere for Christmas. The holiday is for everyone.”
Ben Mims is a former cooking columnist for the Los Angeles Times. He has written three cookbooks and has worked as a food editor and recipe developer for several food media publications, such as Lucky Peach, Food & Wine, Saveur, Food Network and Buzzfeed/Tasty.
Food
World & Nation
Subscribe for unlimited accessSite Map
London were greeted with more than just groceries last week
MOJU,the brand behind the UK’s favourite ginger shots
transformed the supermarket’s aisles into an early morning rave
creating an unforgettable in-store experience
featuring live beats from DJ ‘Big MO,’ turned the chilled aisles into a full-on party
shoppers were treated to complimentary MOJU ginger shots
delivering the ultimate kick start to their day
The morning rave marks part of MOJU’s wider launch plans in their nationwide rollout into Morrisons stores
After launching into the Grocer back in June 2024
the brand wanted to continue shaking up shoppers’ mornings through the viral campaign which reached almost 1 million people
“As part of our continued mission to bring more mojo to more people
we thought we’d celebrate our launch into Morrisons by waking up the chilled aisles and surprising shoppers with a taste of how it *really* feels to start the day on a ginger high”
said: “Our customers have really been enjoying the MOJU range since it launched in Morrisons this summer
so it was nice to surprise some of them with this fun start to their day!”
MOJU’s signature fresh root variants
in the award-winning 420ml multishot Dosing Bottle format
are available across 395 Morrisons stores (RRP £5.95 /420ml)
the brand has shown early signs of strong performance
Nutrition brand MOJU will today reveal a new and much bigger iteration of its award-winning Wake Shake Boom campaign to shake up the dreary January commute. This year, the campaign, which previously launched in January 2023 and won effectiveness awards* for driving a 20% increase in household penetration, will broaden to new frontiers, with high-impact placements across Manchester in addition to London, reaching more than 10 million people in need of invigoration.
The campaign, which was developed by independent creative agency Who Wot Why with media led by Bicycle, seeks to intercept busy commuters and rushed middle aged parents, presenting a healthy and invigorating addition to their daily routine in the form of MOJU’s Ginger juice shots. While the vibrancy of the colour palette serves to communicate the potency of the product, MOJU’s infamous ‘shot face’ showcases the uniquely craveable product experience that is so good you can feel it work.
The three-word mnemonic provides an easy-to-land brand message that shows the ease of activating a new morning routine:
As an introduction to the brand, the campaign packs plenty of key messages into one memorable creative concept.
Launching at the time of year when consumers typically look for a new healthy habit, the campaign also works to position MOJU as an easy-to-start morning ritual that is even easier to keep. It is part of a wider mission to establish MOJU as the UK’s favourite and freshest way to kickstart the day.
As the UK’s #1 for fresh, health-boosting juice shots, MOJU has tapped into the growing demand for convenient nutrition to become one of the nation’s most exciting and fastest-growing consumer brands.
Jon Marchant, marketing director at MOJU, said, “We are extremely excited to launch our second MOJU ATL campaign. After the recent success of MOJU’s Channel 4 breakfast sponsorship, there has been a growing demand for the brand and as more and more consumers start to build MOJU into their morning routine, we continue to demonstrate that healthy habits don’t have to be boring (or hard to keep!) Our notoriously fiery ginger shots are ready to wake, shake and boom the nation once again!”
Sean Thompson, ECD and co-founder at Who Wot Why, said, “I was always taught that three words make for a great poster. Whilst this isn’t always true, and it’s massively ignored these days, it’s hard to ignore the impact of the rule of three on the streets. WAKE SHAKE BOOM packs a huge punch in just Three. Short. Words. The results are booming. More power to your elbow, Moju.”
Hannah Saunders, business director at Bicycle, said, “We can't wait to see MOJU's second ATL campaign boom onto the streets of London and Manchester this January. Building on the success of last year's campaign and C4 Breakfast sponsorship, it is a clear indication of how client, creative and media working closely together can create highly effective and stand-out campaigns that deliver real client growth."
Cody Long is a former video journalist and producer for the Los Angeles Times who focused on food video
Long received his bachelor’s in art with an emphasis in photography from San Diego State University
He has produced Emmy award-winning content for the San Diego Union-Tribune and has had clients including Sony Interactive
By James Beeson2024-07-30T14:35:00
The deal will run for an initial six months from the start of August
engineer Moju Zhao has developed a transformative drone
that can change its shape mid-flight to navigate tight spaces
DRAGON offers a glimpse into the future of robotics
aligning perfectly with Japan’s futuristic drone roadmap
which envisions applications ranging from delivery services to farming and even innovative solutions like drone-powered parasols
Meanwhile, researchers at MIT have made strides in the development of insect-sized drones equipped with soft actuators that replicate the agility of natural insects. These micro-drones are not only resilient, capable of withstanding collisions, but also demonstrate remarkable aerial maneuvers, including somersaults
The soft actuators are constructed from thin rubber cylinders coated with carbon nanotubes
Applying voltage to these actuators generates electrostatic forces
resulting in wing flapping and agile flight
This breakthrough technology opens up a world of potential applications
from crop pollination and machinery inspections to search and rescue missions
MIT’s innovative fabrication process involves layering elastomer and electrode materials
leading to the creation of power-efficient and durable drones
In summary, the realm of drone technology is rapidly evolving, with nature-inspired designs and advanced fabrication techniques at the forefront. DRAGON’s shape-shifting abilities and MIT’s insect-sized drones with soft actuators represent significant advancements in the field
These innovations promise to revolutionize various industries
enabling drone operations in previously challenging and intricate environments
while also fostering a new era of exploration and efficiency in robotics
Premium
After hearing about the benefits for so long
The hype around ginger shots isn't a new phenomenon. They've been around for ages, with many people claiming the benefits around them are life-changing
From improving your overall wellness to soothing your digestive system
I'd constantly been hearing about all the reasons why I should be incorporating them into my daily routine
I'd also recently been feeling quite under the weather
struggling with some kind of nasty flu that had been going around
I knew that I had to at least give the shots a try to see if they'd help.
there are no nasty artificial flavourings or preservatives.
organised into three overall wellness areas
The 'Energy' range includes the Fresh Root Ginger Shots and Fresh Root Tumeric Shots
The 'Immunity' range contains the Hot Mango Immunity Shots and Multi Berry Immunity Shots
the 'Gut Health' range has the Raspberry Gut Health Shots and Tropic Gut Health Shots
I don't think I've said shots so many times in one sentence - sounds like a usual Friday night at my local.
Moju used to sell the 60ml versions of each shot but have started prioritising the week long 'dosing' bottles due to the brand's belief that shots are most beneficial when incorporated into a daily routine
I quite liked this angle as I agree that practicing wellness should be viewed as a permanent priority
not just for a Monday morning after a heavy weekend.
Keep reading to find out exactly what happened throughout my week of taking ginger shots
I'd never tried them before so I was excited to see what the effects would be
it seems to take me back to a rather unpleasant concoction that my granny used to make me whenever I was feeling poorly
It's one of the reasons why I wanted to challenge myself to taking the shots
especially as I'd heard so many good things about them.
I woke up on day one and it was the first thing that popped into my mind
As it's recommended to take a daily ginger shot first thing on an empty stomach
I immediately prepared one as soon as I entered the kitchen
the taste was horrendous and it did manage to send a shiver down my spine
It started off very gingery and was followed with an overwhelmingly spicy aftertaste - yum
I was pleased I'd taken the first step.
home and active products from the T3 experts
One thing I didn't expect was the surge of energy I'd receive
I normally take a little while to wake up in the mornings
something my colleagues would agree with seeing as I don't tend to speak before I've had a coffee
the ginger shot seemed to spark something within me and I was ready to take on the day
I loved the way this felt and remember hoping it would be around to stay.
I was still feeling a little fluey at this point so the energy surge helped a lot with getting over that morning grogginess quicker than usual
The shot didn't miraculously cure any symptoms as the day went on
but I'm looking forward to see whether this progresses as the week goes on.
By day three, I was fully immersed in including the ginger shot into my morning routine
I'm a firm believer that sticking to a morning routine is the best way to start the day
so this step bought in a nice bit of structure
I was happy that the surge of energy I'd originally felt hadn't gone away and I was still experiencing it
I had also gotten a little more used to the taste - you'll be pleased to know that the shivers had subsided at this point.
One major difference I'd noticed at this point was that I wasn't as bloated throughout the day as usual
I'm bad at eating breakfast because I hate having that mid-morning bloat
but the shot seemed to completely eradicate this
Ginger is good for relaxing the muscle in your gut lining
therefore aiding in the movement of food and fluids through your digestive system
It was nice to see the benefits of this and meant I was able to have my morning porridge without suffering too much
I was also feeling a lot better in terms of my flu symptoms
and I do think taking the ginger shot was helping this
less bunged up and that I was fully ascending back to full health.
it was strange to look at the empty bottle and think that I'd consumed that much ginger over the week
my body was 100% thanking me for it.
One new update to report was to do with my gym recovery
As I focus on weights and aim to increase every few weeks
I often ache the morning after an intense session
I honestly didn't feel half the pain I usually did and I put this down to the shots
but was able to freely move around without even thinking about how my muscles were feeling.
I was also fully clear of any flu symptoms by this point which was wonderful
I think the shots definitely sped up the process to getting better
especially as it normally takes me at least a few weeks to feel back to normal.
I was over the moon with the results from my ginger shot experiment
Not only did it help me get after a nasty bout of flu
less bloated and my post-gym recovery wasn't half as bad
I also think I managed to get over a rather inherent fear of ginger altogether
although I still won't be going anywhere near granny's flu mixture anytime soon
This one-week trial is also proof that we have to maintain a wellness routine in order to feel the effects
rather than expecting results after one day
but regularly drinking them over the course of a week made a huge difference.
Interested in more? Check out the smoothie recipe that I love to start my day with!
Lizzie WilmotSocial Links NavigationStaff Writer
HomeLizzie is T3's Home Living Staff Writer
she's your go-to for trends and top recommendations
or testing her review units – often during an enthusiastic cleaning spree
By James Beeson2025-01-03T09:00:00
The shots are made from cold-pressed juice and added ‘superfood’ ingredients
I stopped by Joe and the Juice and headed straight for the ginger shots
I did down it all in one like I'd made it to midnight on New Year's Eve
This has become something of a ritual of mine
Every single time I feel a little off or under the weather
ginger shots are the first line of defence
“I am powered by ginger… If I’m traveling and I can’t have ginger
There was a time when I was in Germany for three months and I couldn’t find a crushed juice place
So I bought a juicer and a bunch of ginger to make it myself because I was positive it was the only thing keeping me alive.”
Ginger shots have slowly but surely infiltrated the diets of many
and they're basically concentrated beverages made with fresh ginger root juice
Because ginger can be pretty spicy and not all that pleasant by itself
the shots themselves are often infused with lemon or orange juice to make things a little more palatable
“So ginger shots may help support a healthy immune system.”
In a 2009 issue of the Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences
a 30-day study found that ginger can increase the level of two of the most important mood-boosting neurotransmitters: serotonin and dopamine
Serotonin is known as the “happiness molecule” and dopamine is called the “motivation molecule,” so while ginger shots won't cure you of absolutely all of your aches and pains
“Ginger shots are awesome and, as you can already see, there's plenty of evidence out there to back this up,” says Amanda Hamilton
a nutritional expert and author of number one Amazon bestseller The G Plan Diet
you should bear in mind that the quality of the research behind this science doesn't always stand up to scrutiny
while ginger does have some positive effects on things like your immune system
it might not work for everyone and depends on a series of factors that might be out of your control
Not everyone will experience the same benefits
A 2020 article by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) also found that a selection of people experienced “discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea, and mouth and throat irritation” after consuming the root. If you encounter any of these side effects, it's recommended that you stop taking it as soon as possible.
and proponents often point to their magical ability to help one shift a few pounds
The data suggested that ginger could prevent obesity and obesity-related conditions
very important to note that these results may not be entirely accurate
“The science isn’t fully there to full support this yet,” says Lenherr
“A substantial portion of the research relies on animal studies or in vitro experiments using human cells in controlled environments
and therefore we need further extensive research before endorsing ginger shots as a way to lose weight.”
“If you get acid reflux or have a sensitive stomach, I advise diluting the ginger shot in some water and testing your tolerance and reaction,” says Lenherr. “While ginger is sometimes recommended to alleviate morning sickness, it's essential that you seek guidance from a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure safety during pregnancy.”
“Not much is known about whether it’s safe to use ginger while breastfeeding,” says Hamilton. “Furthermore, ginger contains something called salicylate, which is a natural blood thinner. So if you're on blood thinning meds like warfarin or rivaroxaban, taking ginger shots might not be a good idea. If you want to try them though, contact your doctor or GP and they'll give you the best advice.”
“If you feel good and enjoy the taste of ginger, and you don’t have any health concerns and aren’t on any medications, then you can enjoy and use ginger shots daily,” says Lenherr. “One thing to add is that many ginger shots have added ingredients which can potentially provide other benefits such as turmeric, lemon juice, cayenne, and apple cider vinegar.”
“There's no one size-fits-all approach when it comes to the frequency of dosage,” says Hamilton. “However, it's helpful to remind ourselves that there's no such thing as a magic bullet. Ginger shots won't undo excess in other aspects of our diet or lifestyle, but it can be an accessible addition to an overall plan.”
“I would recommend either buying good quality ginger shots with no artificial sweeteners and low in fruit juice,” says Lenherr. But, over the past couple of months, influencers and nutritionists have been taking over platforms like Instagram and TikTok to show off their own homemade recipes, and they've become surprisingly popular.
If you're thinking of making them yourself (look at you!), you can adjust the ingredients to match your own personal preferences and go organic to make them extra healthy and extra fresh. Also, if you've ever bought a ginger shot, you'd know that they can be expensive. Homemade will save you a few quid.
Inside the 9-hour queue to bag a Blancpain x Swatch Scuba Fifty Fathoms
The very advanced autumn capsule wardrobe for guys who wanna stay warm and look cool
The best birth year watches for anyone born in the ‘80s
How to make us care about Big Brother again
At home with Bear Grylls: “I often cook with my machete”
The Wake Shake Boom campaign created by Who Wot Why positions MOJU’s fiery ginger shot as an integral part of the wake up process
Eat Sleep Wake Shake Boom Repeat; drinks brand
MOJU’s first ever out-of-home campaign positions its fiery ginger shot as an integral part of the morning routine
‘Wake Shake Boom’ has been developed by Who Wot Why with help from media agency
Central to the campaign the brand has launched its first-ever music video that introduces the routine with the help of a catchy dance track
The drinks brand is challenging consumers to shake up their morning routines and inject some energy into the morning
The fun mnemonic is made up of three parts; wake
waking up the nation from an energy slump; shake
“We aim to demonstrate that healthy habits don’t have to be boring; it can be as simple as taking a shot of cold-pressed raw ingredients to kickstart your day.” explains Jon Marchant
sight and taste and brings this vision to life via a bold music video
bright posters and a unique temperature triggered billboard.
which has been produced by Berlin based music producer Dom Edgley
dance track will get audiences moving while the surreal music video features a cocky cockerel and a diva solo from a piece of ginger
The song is available to stream on Spotify and to use on TikTok.
The campaign is set to reach 80% of Londoners with striking lifestyle led visual imagery shot by Tom Cockram at Probation Agency
The artwork builds upon the music video and three step routine through bold type.
MOJU has featured key figures from their community such as Tyler Williams-Green
from their charity partner Outrunners and Andre Coggins from Track Mafia
A selection of posters will have digital activity included
allowing passers-by to download a voucher to access a free MOJU Ginger Shot that is redeemable in stores nationwide.
As part of the OOH activity MOJU has also taken over a billboard in Canary Wharf that uses real time technology to target consumers at different times of day
offering tired commuters a free shot when they need it most
The campaign builds upon the idea of habit stacking
infiltrating the morning routine to position MOJU as part of a healthy wake up
The catchy track alongside clever OOH media placement helps solidify the brand in the minds of audiences
Successfully communicating thats small changes in your routine can help improve your day.
At the IPA Talent and Diversity Conference
the IPA revealed new research to urge the industry to overcome generational stereotypes
Industry leaders urged the audience to take action on inclusion at the IPA Talent & Diversity conference
highlights reasons for people to choose the Eurostar
Fandoms aren’t new but the way they operate is
The campaign from Lucky Generals builds on the success of ‘See the World Differently’
Looks like you need to create a Creativebrief account to perform this action
While ginger offers a whole wealth of scientifically-backed health benefits
nutritionist Sophie Trotman stresses that it's best not to supplement them every single day in the long run
because \"long-term excessive use of ginger shots may potentially lead to gastrointestinal issues due to its natural anticoagulant properties
and it's always advisable to consult with healthcare providers for personalised advice.\"
Ginger shots are best relied on shorter term or when you feel your digestion or bloating could benefit from a helping hand.
The Unrooted ginger shots that Chloe tested
Ginger shots are one of the latest wellness trends to go mainstream
with the spicy drinks now readily stocked in the aisles of Pret
It's clear why: a small shot of some firey juice seems to be a simple hack we can all make to feel better. That said
if you're curious about what the benefits of ginger shots actually are - so was I
which is why I dedicated two solid weeks to testing them every day to see if I noticed any tangible benefits
I'm always looking for ways to small and sustainable ways to improve my wellbeing routine
Ginger shots are a part of that - I tend to pick one up when I'm feeling hungover or super tired
While I do feel like they help bring me back to life
I've never tested them consistently or made them a part of my daily routine until now
has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that make it effective at healing
suggesting it can even reduce the symptoms of some inflammatory diseases such as arthritis and colitis.
First up: A review of the current science on ginger shots
but it's by far the only piece of research suggesting these benefits.
In fact, a review of nine studies on ginger found that one to three grams of the golden root per day for up to twelve weeks decreased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP)
"Ginger is also being examined for its potential role in reducing cardiovascular risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol levels
it's important to note that the research is still in its infancy and more rigorous
large-scale trials are needed to confirm these effects," says Trotman
who adds that "while incorporating moderate amounts of ginger into your diet can be beneficial
it should not be considered a replacement for medical treatment."
There are so many ginger shots out there on the market - so much so
I opted to try Unrooted Mighty Ginger shots for a few reasons: it comes in glass packaging
but the ingredient list was packed with green flags
I loved that ginger makes up 25% of the drink
as many other ginger shots are actually just juice with a sprinkling of ginger
which is going to have way fewer health benefits
"Ginger shots can be a very convenient way to consume ginger
but they are often diluted with other ingredients that may be high in sugar
like apple juice," agrees Trotman. "The shots with a minimal amount of ginger are really just bulked-up juice
meaning you are paying a premium for something that won't make much of a difference to your health."
The addition of chilli and turmeric in Unrooted's shots also looked great (if spicy) as these have similarly anti-inflammatory properties to ginger
meaning I'm getting a triple dose of the good stuff
meaning it will definitely be getting to work on helping out my body
Baobab is also said to support your immune system and digestion
so it's great to see another ingredient in the list that will work in harmony with my health
opt for ones that are free from added sugars
and preservatives and that contain minimal amounts of additional fruit juice," advises the nutritionist
though: "Some ginger shots also come fortified with other health-boosting ingredients like lemon juice or turmeric
which can be beneficial but should also be consumed in moderation."
it looked like my chosen shot was a winner
I'm a 27-year-old Health and Fitness Editor
meaning I'm pretty tuned in to my wellbeing
I was in a bit of a health rut with constant bloating and digestive pain
As someone with IBS and other diagnosed reproductive issues
these symptoms are unfortunately very common.
I decided to take ginger shots first thing in the morning
although I'll be the first to admit that there were a couple of times that it did slip my mind
Week one and my fridge is stocked with Unrooted ginger shots
I was very happy to see that the drink was a thick
I don't just want fruit juice with flavouring
I want as much of the good stuff as possible.
Some people might not enjoy how spicy ginger shots are
spicy flavour is exactly the thing that my body needs to wake me up in the morning.
I feel alert and pretty pleased with myself for starting the day with such a healthy habit
noticeable benefit I experienced for the first couple of days.
after a whole week of taking a shot each morning
I realised that my bloating had significantly subsided
I'm typically a big fan of ginger for the digestive benefits - I always turn to a homemade ginger and miso soup on the days that my stomach plays up - so perhaps I shouldn't have been surprised that helped reduce this pain so significantly
the de-bloating impact was significant.
taking a ginger shot first thing in the morning seemed to settle my digestion for the day.
may help in relaxing the smooth muscle in your gut lining and thereby aid in the movement of food and fluids through your digestive system," explains Trotman
"There's not enough research to draw conclusive recommendations
and there are many possible reasons as to why someone may be bloated
so ginger shots may not always be a help."
there are thousands of reasons that my stomach may have been less swollen and bloated on these particular weeks
and a fortnight of ginger shots isn't enough for me to say they're a cure-all for my digestive discomfort
it's so nice to know that I have found a treatment that could work in future - psychosomatically or otherwise.
This two-week trial is also a testament to the fact that we have to keep up long-term habits for our health
rather than expecting results after one day: a single shot didn't deliver the digestive benefits
but regular uptake of ginger seemed to work.
While you shouldn't take ginger shots every single day for a prolonged period of time - Trotman warns that it can lead to potential gastrointestinal issues - I will rely on the hack in the future as and when I think my stomach could benefit
This 500ml bottle of ginger and chilli will provide you with an eight day supply
plus comes in a glass bottle - health and sustainability wins
this fiery MOJU ginger shot is a firm favourite for a reason
spicy and boosted with baobab for an extra health boost
this no-nasties ginger shot blend from Plenish is made from 100% organic ingredients and comes with added apple cider vinegar
because "long-term excessive use of ginger shots may potentially lead to gastrointestinal issues due to its natural anticoagulant properties
and it's always advisable to consult with healthcare providers for personalised advice."
She was part of the launch team for Stylist magazine's fitness brand
She's all about building mental and physical strength
and making the fitness industry more accessible and enjoyable
She's also a qualified fitness trainer and research nerd
so you can be sure everything you read is backed by proper science.
sand (including gravel) is the second-most exploited natural resource in the world
coastal dunes and watercourses at an accelerating pace in the past 20 years
with the two leading drivers being sand’s use as aggregate in concrete
and for beach reconstruction to protect coastal property
demand for sand reached 50 billion tonnes per year1
with the researchers of this study presenting the different aspects of this damaging practice
Current rates of sand extraction exceed natural replenishment rates
leaving mined ecosystems very slow or even unable to recover
Sand mining changes how waterways flow and flood
threatens water security and lowers groundwater capacity
in turn raising water costs for local communities
It causes habitat loss and reduced biodiversity (especially for aquatic ecosystems)
also contributing to climate change through the sand extraction process
The resulting erosion removes protection against coastal hazards
and threatens critical infrastructure such as roads and railways
Sand extraction also damages coastal scenery which is necessary for tourism
mining for any mineral is subject to numerous environmental regulations3 and impact assessments
coastal and marine environments are protected via at least 15 regional conventions and other initiatives and legislation
illegal mining and trade can create an atmosphere of corruption in many coastal societies and leading to the creation of violent social groups (‘sand mafias’) that protect the ‘illegality’ of the activity
Given the difficulty of regulating sand mining
the researchers highlight the ‘dire’ need for global policy with real impact – policy to reduce sand mining and its adverse consequences for coastal areas
While sand may wrongly be considered a vast or limitless resource
its high-demand uses – concrete aggregate and beach nourishment – require sand of high quality with specific attributes
making it no different to other natural resources with a non-renewable
They call for a better management framework
an understanding of both the complex sand life cycle and coastal sand-supply network
and greater recognition of the concept of ‘sand rights’
They discuss practices that could enable this
and suggest guidelines to steer global agenda-making on the regulation of sand extraction
other mining waste could be dry-mined for sand; concrete could be recycled and used more efficiently; filler materials (e.g
construction waste or pulverised glass) could be used to regenerate beaches (though risks to human health
and impacts on the wider ecosystem and biodiversity would need to be considered); and new materials could be used in place of concrete (e.g
Even if it is unrealistic to eliminate concrete altogether
companies should move towards alternative materials in place of concrete
the researchers say; the construction industry should adopt a lifecycle approach
with the environmental impacts of materials considered and minimised from design through to end-of-life/disposal
the study recommends empowering communities
including those in downstream environments who would be affected by sand extraction
as well as those who are reliant on sand resources (including local tourism industries)
This would require addressing social contexts that include poverty
lack of education and knowledge of the impacts of sand extraction
The researchers indicate that sand flows through a complex cycle
and disrupting its flow inflicts damage ‘downstream’
Managing the use of sand requires integrated regional management between offshore regulators
coastal communities and the associated river basins that are the upstream sources of sand
(2023) The global impact of sand mining on beaches and dunes
Ocean and Coastal Management 235 (2023) 106492
“Science for Environment Policy”: European Commission DG Environment News Alert Service
The contents and views included in Science for Environment Policy are based on independent
peer reviewed research and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Commission
Please note that this article is a summary of only one study
Other studies may come to other conclusions
EU Environment newsletters deliver the latest updates about the European Commission’s environmental priorities straight to your inbox
The UK’s fastest Growing Soft Drinks Brand
MOJU is kicking off its first ever OOH campaign Wake Shake Boom
which has been developed by creative agency
and notoriously fiery ginger shot as an easy and integral part of your daily morning ritual
The campaign launches with MOJU’s first ever music video that introduces the habitual concept with the aid of a catchy track
Consumers in the UK are always looking to shake up their morning routines
so MOJU has created a fun and engaging three step mnemonic that taps into this zeitgeist
MOJU’s aim has been to infiltrate the senses of the masses with sound
This has been put into action by way of a memorable music video
engaging posters and a unique temperature triggered billboard
The campaign has been created to guide consumers' understanding of the simple but effective good habit that can be started in an instant
is produced by Berlin based music producer Dom Edgley and co-directed by Sourcy's Ben Crocker and Alexis Tymon and Who Wot Why’s Conrad Swanston
The song is also available to stream on Spotify and to use on TikTok
features an over-cocky cockerel and a solo from a prima-diva piece of ginger
The timely campaign hitting 80% of Londoners is physically illustrated through posters that go live across London from the 16th January
pays homage to the music video and the triptych layout hints at a three-step guide to activating a routine
allowing passers-by to download a voucher to access a free MOJU Ginger Shot that is redeemable in stores nationwide
MOJU is taking over a billboard in Canary Wharf that uses real time technology to target consumers at different times of day
and it needs an equally innovative idea to go with it
The WAKE SHAKE BOOM full-length promo and streamable music track on Spotify is designed to be the ultimate earworm
to help make MOJU ginger shots the go-to morning routine
this track was written whilst consuming copious amounts of hard-hitting Peruvian ginger
With every shot came another lyric and before we knew it we’d created a fiery catchy monster.”
By REBECCA WHITTAKER FOR MAILONLINE
with 'gut shot' drinks flying off the shelves of almost every supermarket
But experts say that although digestive health is important
the tiny drinks are not the 'miracle' cure they're marketed to be
wheatgrass and fermented yoghurt are among some of the most popular
restore energy levels and support the microbiome — the trillions of microbes in the gut
But nutritionists warn these wellness drinks shouldn't be seen as a 'panacea for all health issues' and suggest that simply eating fruit is better
The M&S x Zoe gut shot kefir-based drink sold for £2
contains live cultures and fibre and is said to keep your gut microbiome healthy
The Waitrose Ginger Shot is £1.60 for 100ml and contains apple
ginger and lemon juices with apple and ginger purées (left)
The Moju Hot Shot is 60ml and sold for £2 (right)
Supermarkets claim it contains vitamins C & D and zinc which can contribute to the normal function of the immune system
which claim to keep your gut microbiome healthy and populous
Newer offerings include the £2 M&S x Zoe kefir-based gut shot
Many wellness shots boast their gut-boosting credentials
But regulations in the UK stop manufacturers from claiming their products improve immune function or maintain normal digestive health
However, they can make claims that related to the vitamins and minerals they are fortified with, such as calcium and vitamin D, according to Birmingham-based registered dietitian Dr Duane Mellor
Gut shots can help maintain normal function of digestive enzymes due to their calcium content
he said the products are 'not a miracle cure and you are better off eating a varied and healthy diet including fruits and plain live yoghurt'
Some health claims made about these drinks are based on 'limited scientific evidence'
'Some probiotic mixtures of bacteria may be shown to have benefit in trials
but there is a lack of consistency in the mixture of bacteria and how much are needed to survive the harsh acid environment of the stomach and make their way to the colon to result in health benefits,' Dr Mellor added
a London-based nutritionist and author of Unprocess Your Life
said the drinks won't have the same health benefits as regularly eating balanced meals
'The amounts are not comparable to what you'd receive from consuming a diverse diet with at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily,' he told MailOnline
Some wellness shots contain bacterial strains which are known to support the gut microbiome
because most people drink these shots intermittently and not every day
the 'high cost' of the drinks in comparison to regular supplements can make them 'a less practical choice for consistent gut health support,' he argued
Customers could end up spending close to £60 of health shots a month if they had one every day
Turmeric is one spice that is widely celebrated for it's health benefits
experts say it contains compounds that are thought to reduce inflammation and it might even help with IBS
Mr Hobson suggests eating a variety of plants and fermented foods
incorporating a variety of probiotic-rich foods like yogurt
will offer a more effective strategy,' he said
'This approach not only supports a healthy gut microbiome but also contributes to overall dietary diversity and nutrient intake.'
But it's not just live cultures in 'gut shot' drinks that claim to improve your gut health
spices and superfoods are also hailed as miracle ingredients
Experts say it contains compounds that are thought to reduce inflammation
'Turmeric could be beneficial for managing inflammatory gut conditions such as IBS
and may positively influence gut microbiota,' said Mr Hobson
But Dr Mellor warns many of these findings are from studies involving rodents which have been given much higher levels of the spice than you would get via the diet or potentially in a supplement
'It is better to use turmeric as a spice as part of a healthy diet rather than trying to take it purely to improve your health,' Dr Mellor said
It's a similar story for the 'superfood' wheatgrass which is rich in certain nutrients but it can never be a replacement for a balanced diet
Although it contains a range of vitamins and phytochemical
a plant chemical thought to strengthen the immune system
there is currently 'very little evidence' to suggest it really can benefit our gut health
Mr Hobson also suggests the ingredient is not any more beneficial than eating whole vegetables
'Some believe that the enzymes in wheatgrass aid nutrient absorption and may help with certain inflammatory bowel conditions,' Mr Hobson said
the evidence to support these claims is limited
and there are many more scientifically proven beneficial ways to support gut health beyond a daily shot of wheatgrass.'
• Eat at least 5 portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day
dried and canned fruit and vegetables count
• 30 grams of fibre a day: This is the same as eating all of the following: 5 portions of fruit and vegetables
2 thick slices of wholemeal bread and large baked potato with the skin on
• Have some dairy or dairy alternatives (such as soya drinks) choosing lower fat and lower sugar options
meat and other proteins (including 2 portions of fish every week
• Choose unsaturated oils and spreads and consuming in small amounts
• Adults should have less than 6g of salt and 20g of saturated fat for women or 30g for men a day
Source: NHS Eatwell Guide
The comments below have not been moderated
We are no longer accepting comments on this article
The Mail on Sunday & Metro Media Group
Fast-growing juice and smoothies brand MOJU has secured wider UK distribution for its range of functional shots
Morrisons is stocking two of MOJU’s fresh root variants
in a 420ml multi-shot Dosing Bottle format across 395 stores (RRP £5.95 / 420ml)
Asda has increased distribution of three of the brand’s SKUs
which will now be available across 495 stores
MOJU’s all-natural ingredients are claimed to give health-conscious consumers a “fresh-pressed
naturally caffeine-free way to kick-start their day”
commented: “As we’ve driven the functional shots category in the UK since launching in 2016
opportunity to develop strong partnerships with existing and new customers who have believed in the strength of the MOJU proposition and brand
which have been crucial to the success of category as a whole
“Securing these major distribution gains will help us to reach more busy & active consumers nationwide
we’re excited by our rapidly growing fanbase in other major regions of the UK”
the nation’s fastest-growing juice and smoothies brand
today celebrates securing wider UK distribution for its category-defining range of functional shots
as it continues to shake up the category with two major retailer wins
Morrisons will stock two of MOJU’s signature fresh root variants
in the award-winning 420ml multi-shot Dosing Bottle format
ASDA has increased distribution of three of the brand’s successful SKUs
Packing the power of nature into every 60ml shot
MOJU’s all-natural ingredients give health-conscious consumers a fresh-pressed
naturally caffeine-free way to kickstart their day
Co-Founder & CEO at MOJU says: “As we’ve driven the functional shots category in the UK since launching in 2016
the journey has been punctuated with the opportunity to develop strong partnerships with existing and new customers who have believed in the strength of the MOJU proposition and brand
Securing these major distribution gains will help us to reach more busy & active consumers nationwide
While we’ve built high awareness (40%
we’re excited by our rapidly growing fanbase in other major regions of the UK”
MOJU is the creation of health & wellbeing hellraisers Rich Goldsmith and Charlie Leet-Cook – two best mates who believe that busy lives demand better than heavily processed and sugar laden products
is the fastest-growing juice and smoothies brand in the UK
igniting the nation’s tastebuds with a powerful hit of daily nutrition
MOJU’s shot experience has proven to pack a punch nationwide with more than one MOJU shot sold every second. The brand now has a presence in Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Ocado, Asda, Co-op, Whole Foods, Planet Organic, Leon and Itsu, online at Amazon and directly from MOJU’s website mojudrinks.com
Read our review of the Moju Turmeric Shots
An excellent supplement to your health and fitness routine that is proven to aid muscle recovery
these handy bottles of turmeric are a great golf supplement
Proven to decrease muscle pain and damage out on course
The handy size of the bottles means they are easily put in a golf bag
we discuss how these handy bottles can help you perform your best on the golf course
Turmeric has properties that can help you recover more quickly and endure less aches and pains following golf
Turmeric is often talked about these days within discussions on effective sports nutrition
It has been investigated recently due to its numerous medicinal properties and health benefits
athletes supplemented with curcumin displayed reduced inflammation and oxidative stress
better psychological and physiological responses (thermal and cardiovascular) during training and improved gastrointestinal function
Turmeric may also help with arthritis and improve blood sugar levels
The Moju Turmeric shot delivers a concentrated natural shot of this super spice
and it can be taken either on its own or mixed into a shake
The Moju Turmeric Shot is a 60ml bottle of 100% cold-pressed functional drink made from all-natural whole ingredients
Moju Turmeric is formulated with 16.3g of fresh turmeric root
The shot also contains black pepper to help with absorption
There’s no added sugar or sweeteners and Moju donates 1% of sales to plant healthy air in UK cities and their bottles are made from 50% recycled materials and are 100% recyclable
You can either take the Moju Turmeric Shot once a day or as part of your exercise and fitness routine
small 60ml shot size turmeric drinks can be taken on the course in the golf bag or kept in the locker to be taken after the round
One of these turmeric shots per day can help with soreness and inflammation
Subscribe to the Golf Monthly newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest tour news
head-to-heads and buyer’s guides from our team of experienced experts
He graduated with a Masters degree in International Journalism from the University of Sussex and looks after equipment reviews and buying guides
Dan has now tested and reviewed over 30 pairs of golf shoes and is an expert in the field
his handicap index is currently 6.5 and he plays at Fulford Heath Golf Club in the West Midlands
Fairway: Ping G440 Max 15°, Ping G425 Max 20.5°
Irons: Cobra King Tec Utility, Ping i230 (5-PW)
Wedges: Ping Glide Forged Pro
Putter: TaylorMade Spider Tour X
News & Analysis for the Beverage Industry
03-May-2022 Last updated on 03-May-2022 at 07:57 GMT
Moju, a plant-powered functional drinks brand, has launched a new drink called Tropical Prebiotic.
“Bursting with delicious summer flavors, each shot contains fruity mango, zesty lime and zingy baobab, mixed with MOJU’s signature blend of powerful prebiotics and plant fiber,” says the brand.
“Available to customers in both 500ml and 420ml Dosing Bottles, the new prebiotic has been designed to be shot daily, and expertly created to support immune and digestive health by encouraging a healthier, more diverse gut microbiome.”
The drink is available in the UK from Waitrose, Planet Organic and Wholefoods: priced at £27.80 for 4x 500ml bottles.
Rum brand Malibu is extending its ready-to-drink line with two new flavors - Pineapple Bay Breeze Cocktail in a Can and Watermelon Mojito Cocktail in a Can – in time for the US summer.
“Having launched Piña Colada and Strawberry Daiquiri back in the fall, Malibu is tapping into seasonal flavors and offering fans even more convenient ways to enjoy their favorite summer spirit, without the fuss,” says brand owner Pernod Ricard. “Perfect for beach days, laying by the pool, or rooftop hangs, the new Pineapple Bay Breeze and Watermelon Mojito will be available nationwide in 12oz cans and have an ABV of 7%.”
In addition to the new ready-to-drink offerings, the brand is also launching a new campaign titled “Welcome to Malibu,” which ‘reimagines Malibu as more than just a rum, but as a place where you step into a hyperreal world where everyone is unplugged and can unabashedly embrace the things they love.’
UK squash brand Robinsons is launching a new Benefit Drops range: each with a different functional benefit.
The concentrated squash range comes in 66ml formats which can be displayed on clip strips in the fridges at the front of stores to encourage impulse buys and keep the brand at the front of shoppers’ minds.
Ben Parker, at home commercial director at Britvic, said: “When people are on-the-go all day, we know it can be difficult to stay on top of keeping hydrated. Benefit drops are the ideal portable format for shoppers on the move, adding great taste and additional vitamins to their water. In fact, 32% of consumers have said they would be interested in buying cordials and squashes with added vitamins or minerals.
“Our existing range of Minis is currently the biggest Pocket Squash brand within the category, generating £6million in RSV, and selling over 3.2 million units in the last year alone. The success of the Minis range reflects consumer demand for convenient formats of squash, as on-the-go occasions continue to make a comeback.”
Kin Euphorics, the Austin-based non-alcoholic beverage brand launched in 2018, is launching a new rosé alternative called Bloom.
The drink is “inspired by your favorite all-day rosé only dreamier and tastier and is 0.0% ABV… a glittering fusion of summer strawberry, barrel oak, and rosemary citrus,” according to the brand.
“Like a warm embrace with your toes in the sand, Kin Bloom brings balance to the current Kin Euphorics lineup that is sipped to awaken your mind (daytime: Spritz + Kin High Rhode) or is a portal to peace (nighttime: Lightwave + Dream Light).”
Non-alc beer to support humanitarian aid for Ukraine
UK non-alcoholic brewer Nirvana Brewery has launched a limited-edition beer to support humanitarian aid in Ukraine.
Limited Edition Lemon Gose 0.5% is an easy drinking tart wheat beer modeled after the traditional sour beers of Northern Germany. A refreshing and rejuvenating Gose, this beer is steeped with toasted Coriander seeds, dried lemon peels and a handful of dried persian limes for a subtle complexity. Maldon Sea Salt flakes have also been added to balance the tart lemon and lime flavours.
“With the summer sun just around the corner we thought a bright and sunny beer was in order for our latest seasonal brew,” said the brewery. “However we know life has been far from sunny for those affected by the war in Ukraine.
“Like many others we want to do what we can to support those affected by the conflict, so 10% of all proceeds from our Limited Edition Lemon Gose 0.05% beer will go straight to supporting humanitarian aid.
“The beer bottle design bears the blue and yellow colors of the Ukrainian flag. Graphic lemons and salt flake drops give a nod to two of the beer's distinctive ingredients.”
Molson Coors is introducing Golden Wing Barley Milk: a non-alcohol plant-based milk that will be sold in the dairy aisle.
Made with five ingredients – including non-GMO barley stock that comes from the fields of Coors’ barley farmers – Golden Wing is launching in Sprouts and Whole Foods in California as well as online.
Pouring a khaki color, Golden Wing has a ‘malty sweetness reminiscent of milk leftover in a bowl of cereal. With a simple ingredient bill of water, barley, sunflower oil, pink Himalayan salt and shiitake mushroom extract, the milk tastes natural without being overly sweet or astringent.’
Golden Wing contains 130 calories and, compared to 2% milk, it has 60% less sugar, 50% more calcium and twice as much Vitamin D.
“The plant-based milk category is growing rapidly, and it’s largely fueled by innovation,” says Brian Schmidt, Molson Coors’ marketing manager for non-alcohol products. “Whether it’s almond, oat or barley, innovation is providing alternatives for consumers seeking the benefits of plant-based milk.”
“We know beer, and because of that we know barley. With our background and expertise, we believe this will be the next major evolution in the plant-based milk category.”
Dilmah Tea, the growers, harvesters and brewers of ethical 100% pure Ceylon tea, has launched Singapore’s highest anti-oxidant bottled ice teas, with polyphenols content measuring up to 120 mg per 100 ml.
Launched in partnership with Beverage Partners International (BPI) and Teabrary International, the range is available in six artisanal flavours made with either a green or black tea base.
Polyphenols are anti-oxidants encompassing the chemical compounds catechins, theaflavins and thearubigins that work to control the damaging effects of free radicals in the body. Tea is particularly rich in polyphenols, but Dilmah has found a way to up its polyphenol content to maximum levels.
It has recorded 85.03mg of polyphenol per 100ml for its black tea and 125.13mg of polyphenol per 100ml of its green tea, compared to other green tea brands in the market which ranges from 48.01mg/100ml to 102.36mg/100ml.
The green tea range comes in flavors such as Lady Lavender, Rose & French Vanilla, and Arabian Jasmine. Black tea comes in Lemon & Lime, White Peach and Royal English.
What's hitting the shelves? New beverage launches07-Mar-2022By Rachel ArthurFrom energy drinks to hard seltzers, we take a look at some of the new products launching around the world this month.
What's hitting the shelves? New beverage launches: March01-Mar-2022By Rachel ArthurFrom sports drinks to flavored spirits, we take a look at some of the new products launching around the world this month.
What's hitting the shelves? New product launches22-Feb-2022By Rachel ArthurFrom botanical soda to new kombucha flavors, we take a look at some of the new products launching this month around the globe.
How to create a prebiotic soda that meets European flavor expectationsPaid for and content provided by esarom
How to meet consumer needs for indulgencePaid for and content provided by Agus
RTD coffee: Convenience and energy boosting - but what comes next?Paid for and content provided by esarom
Merman’s Will Clark and UNIT’s creative director Tom Wansbrough-Jones talk to LBB about their latest breakfast campaign for MOJU
Will Clark> When I first read the concept
I had no idea how we would make people fly out of cuckoo clocks and that was what appealed to me
we chatted together about how it could be achieved
I knew we would probably be doing wire work
but I wanted the performers to feel like real people with comedic sensibilities
not people who look like Cirque du Soleil performers
UNIT were also really helpful in visualising the whole idea and helping me to figure out in my brain the best way to film all the different elements in order to achieve the best results
TWJ> We knew it was going to be really tight for timings from the moment the shoot was finished but we had just over a week of lead time which proved essential
Making a 3D previs was our first priority as it gave an idea of how we could set the scene for the beginning of the films
ended up being essential for the shoot as it helped give more of an idea of timings we needed to hit for each shot; what frame rate we should be shooting at in case we needed to speed anything up in comp and also cover off any extra clean background shots that would become useful later on
TWJ> It’s always worth having a supervisor on set and this was proof of exactly that
We needed to know what we could shoot in portrait rather than landscape
so we knew straight away this was not going to work in post
To get the most out of the composition of the first shot
There’s a huge advantage of having our offline editors who can come in and sit with a director in house alongside 2D lead to make sure we are getting the best working performances for the director
WC> I always wanted performers who were really strong comedically and would be able to create great performances while dangling on wires up in the air
the agency and client were also on the same page
The hardest thing was we saw a lot of great people
so it was one of the lucky situations where we had a tough time picking because we had so many great options
WC> I learned that it’s ok not to fully know how you are going to make something going into a project
but every job is different and that’s what makes it so fun
Sometimes you have a really clear idea how you are going to do a project going in
I had no idea and it was really fun working it all out with a bunch of super talented people
TWJ> Time constraint was the main challenge
so working out the best approach for certain elements
Having access to all departments in one building helped speed up everything
Flame was so important and highly efficient in creating a fast set up to remove green screen spill from the actors
when they poured Moju into the shot glass whilst hanging from the wire
Using Cinema 4D in our design department to create the 3D mechanical lever proved essential in giving us total control of combining the cuckoo clock with the actors
And also for animating the beak of the cuckoo in one of the idents
WC> One of the challenges I had is there is only a finite amount of time that someone can be up in a wire before it starts to become painful
so it was crucial everyone was fully focused between takes because there were only so many takes we could achieve before we needed to rest the actors
I just tried to make sure that I was as clear and concise with the actors as I could possibly be between takes
They were fantastic though and really gave it their all
I’m sure they were pretty knackered by the end of it
By James Beeson2023-12-15T12:00:00
Moju has grown its top line 40.2% on volumes that have swelled 29.3%