THERE will be plenty of new food for thought at the Hotel and Catering Show which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Brand new flavours from top food and drink producers will be revealed at the two-day event on March 17-18, the largest longest-established regional hospitality event of its kind in the UK.

Richard Joslin, managing director of Evisstar, the organisers of the show which is held at the BIC said: “We are delighted to see how so many of our exhibitors have embraced the new trends and changing palate of the market place. “H&CS is the ideal platform for them to launch new products and will enable each of our exhibitors to generate tangible leads, confirmed new business and a solid pipeline ready to follow up in the weeks and months after the show.

“For visitors, this is an invaluable opportunity to sample hundreds of food and drink products available on the market, enabling them to enhance their own menus.”

Here’s just a taste of what to expect: n Essential Cuisine, the dedicated British producer of premium stocks, jus, gravy demi-glace and glaces will be showcasing new additions to its range. Duck, pork and wild mushroom will join its comprehensive, range of glaces. Nigel Crane, managing director of Essential Cuisine, said: “We are constantly in conversation with chefs and felt that the new flavours could really help them add something different to menus – depth, versatility and most importantly serious impact – we can’t wait to show visitors just how the new glaces complement our existing range.”

n Purbeck Ice Cream will showcase three exotic new flavours: wasabi and sweet fennel will both be added to the ‘Spice Rack’ range and have been designed specifically for the foodservice industry. The company will also be launching its Blood Orange Sorbet which can be used as a dessert or as an accompaniment for a variety of dishes.

n Trade visitors to the Liquid Zone of the show will discover new products, techniques and trends in everything to do with non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks. Held in association with the UK Bartenders’ Guild, it is the perfect way for publicans, bartenders, bar/restaurant owners and managers to see what’s on offer from the latest brands and new producers and to get on-hand expert advice and inspiration. n For free entry to the show, register your details at hotel-expo.co.uk