DEFRA Secretary Therese Coffey MP recently paid a visit to Twyford's famous ice cream business.

The minister joined local MPs, Steve Brine and Flick Drummond, at Jude’s Ice Cream, based on the Hazeley Business Park, to meet the family-run business and hear their feedback on the current business environment.

Topics for discussion included emerging plant-based recipes, access to overseas markets and allergens as well as current regulations impacting the sector. The group also took a brief tour of the facility including the factory where products are made and shipped all over the world. The secretary of state took time to meet team members in every part of the business.

Ms Coffey said: “It was great to be able to visit Jude’s Ice Cream today - a thriving family food business and a brilliant British growth story. 

“Right across the food chain we’re supporting our fantastic producers, farmers and growers to continue creating family favourites for generations to come.”

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Chow Mezger, from Jude’s, said: “We always love having the opportunity to showcase our award-winning ice cream. Today we were able to speak to the secretary of state directly as well as two local MPs about food legislation and regulation as we continue our mission to pioneer radical change in our industry by making the most delicious craft ice cream and treading lightly on our planet.”

Mr Brine said: “I’ve known the family for many years and what they’ve achieved is nothing short of remarkable. They’re a real local success story and through sheer hard work are now a brand known and loved by people in many different countries. Thank you to the secretary of state for coming to Twyford.”

Jude’s sell ice cream all over the world including to the Houses of Parliament and they have a successful range of dog ice cream which Mr Brine’s dog Monty, who joined the visit, enjoyed tasting. They’ve also just agreed a big new deal to supply British Airways with their ice cream.