Melissa Hemsley on ultra processed foods, the challenges of modern eating, feeding fussy eaters and sustainability without judgement

Join Melissa Hemsley as she delves into the art of sustainable living, offering practical tips and heartfelt insights. Sitting down with host Samuel Goldsmith, Melissa opens up about the messy joy of feeding her toddler, the pressure of healthy eating in a world dominated by ultra-processed food, and why she's proudly team frozen peas and batch-cooked soup. Together, they unpack everything from how to cook for picky eaters (of all ages), to the myth of perfect meal prep and the power of grated veg to transform a meal. Melissa shares practical tips for making real food easier, more colourful, and more fun—without the guilt, the overwhelm, or the pressure to be perfect.

Melissa Hemsley is a former private chef turned bestselling cookbook author, food columnist, and real food advocate. Passionate about sustainable, seasonal cooking, Melissa champions feel-good food—meals that nourish the body, respect the planet, and bring joy. She has written six cookbooks, including Real Healthy, which helps readers unprocess their diets with easy, everyday recipes. Her writing has appeared in The Telegraph and Vogue, and she is a proud ambassador for Fairtrade UK, a volunteer for The Felix Project, and a judge for numerous food awards. Melissa also writes a popular Substack newsletter, sharing recipes, tips for reducing food waste, interviews, and family life with her daughter, Summer, and dog, Nelly.

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