Hampshire Farmers’ Markets’ drinks producer, Mr Whitehead’s Drinks has struck a deal to bring fresh, local apple juice to the county’s schools.
The company, based in Alton, is to supply Hampshire County Council Catering Services (HC3S) and Southampton City Catering with apple juice for school meals in over 500 primary and 40 secondary schools across the two authorities.
The deal will also see the form bring apple juice to all Hampshire County Council care homes.
The juice will be made from various varieties of apples including Cox, Royal Gala, Bramley, Russet, Discovery, and Braeburn, and are all grown on Blackmoor Estate near Liss.
The juice is pressed and bottled at Selborne near Alton and contains no added sugar, chemicals, flavours or preservative. Previously, apple juice on the school meals menu was imported.
Angus Whitehead of Mr Whitehead’s Drinks said: “This opportunity provides Mr Whitehead’s Drinks with long term stability. For children to learn about how food is produced and where it comes from has to be good for their education. With all the various varieties of apples we’re using throughout the year they’ll also be able to discover how different apples have different flavours. We’re also planning to be able to invite school groups to come and see how apple juice is made and have a go at pressing juice.”
More information about this apple juice is available at www.mr-whiteheads-drinks.co.uk. The deal was brokered by county foods group, Hampshire Fare.
