Two Hoddesdon-based food businesses have been recognised by Hertfordshire County Council for their commitment to healthier eating and sustainable practices.
High Leigh Conference Centre and Pizza Wow have both received accreditation through the Hertfordshire Responsible Food Award (HRFA), a county-wide scheme that supports food providers in making simple but impactful changes to benefit public health and the environment.
The HRFA promotes practices such as reducing salt, sugar and saturated fat, using healthier cooking oils, and minimising food waste. The initiative aligns with the Government’s 10-year health plan, which encourages businesses to make healthy choices easier for customers.
Councillor Ajanta Hilton, Executive Member for Public Health and Community Safety at Hertfordshire County Council, said:
This scheme is all about helping customers make healthier food choices. It’s great to see Hertfordshire leading the way in supporting healthier lifestyles and environmental responsibility. With obesity rates rising, food businesses have an important role to play. Simple changes like adjusting ingredients and improving menus can make a real difference to our communities.”
High Leigh Conference Centre received the Gold Award, achieving the highest level of recognition available. Inspectors were particularly impressed with the centre’s strong support for healthier food and its outstanding commitment to sustainability.
Ewan Thomas, General Manager at High Leigh Conference Centre, said:
We've looked at what we're putting into our foods, reducing fat where we can and cutting back on sugar. The food is lighter, healthier and our customers say they’re enjoying it more.
Pizza Wow became the first takeaway business in the county to receive the award, achieving the Standard Award level. The business made significant changes to qualify, including reducing salt in their dough by 50%, switching to a healthier cooking oil, and launching a new menu featuring vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
Danut Carjan, owner of Pizza Wow, said:
We’ve made healthier choices with our recipes and we’re proud to be part of this scheme. I’d encourage other local businesses to apply, it’s good for the community and the future.”
Three award levels are available, Standard, Silver and Gold. Successful businesses can proudly display the award sticker on their windows.
For more information, or to register your food business, visit: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/hrfa