Proper Snacks and KFC have teamed up to launch chicken-flavoured popcorn, and it’s just landed in UK supermarkets today.
If you cast your minds all the way back to… yesterday, you’ll recall that Heinz launched bags of hash browns filled with tomato ketchup exclusively at Iceland stores, and they’re already sounding sure to be a go-to snack for those lazy Sunday mornings – and now we’ve just heard that KFC and Proper Snacks have joined forces for another obscure delicacy.
Or can it even be considered that obscure? After all, everyone’s familiar with the KFC menu staple that is Popcorn Chicken, so is it really that hard to wrap your head around chicken-flavoured popcorn?
Unsurprisingly, KFC and Proper Snacks’ newest creation is actually inspired by Popcorn Chicken.
Image: KFC x Proper Snacks
Apparently meant to taste just like fried chicken, with the flavour of the fast food chain’s iconic 11 Herbs and Spices coated all over, but still gluten free and suitable for vegans to tuck into too, the new KFC Proper Corn is said to “push the boundaries of taste and texture”, and is stocked on supermarket shelves for a limited time only.
Exclusively launching in Co-op stores right across the UK from today (23 August), before hitting all other major supermarkets in the coming weeks, bags of the new chicken-flavoured popcorn come in two sizes – 20g and 70g – and will either set you back £1 or £1.80, depending on the size you go for.
KFC and Proper Snacks have called the collaboration “a huge moment” for both brands.
Image: KFC
“Our take on the finger-lickin’ classic brings a little extra seasoning to your go-to snack,” claimed Proper Snacks’ founder Cassandra Stavrou on the launch of the new product.
KFC’s innovation director, Kate Wall, added that the fast food chain prides itself on “doing the unexpected”, adding that the partnership with Proper Snacks is about “combining two iconic products” so that people can “enjoy our distinctive taste in new ways”.
“This collaboration pushes the boundaries of taste and texture in a fun and exciting way, and we can’t wait for our fans to try it,” Kate concluded.
KFC x Proper Popcorn Chicken Popcorn is available at the Co-op now.
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
Betty's Tea Room has been named among the nation's best by experts.
If you live in Yorkshire, then you will know about Betty's Tea Room.
Its a real institution at this point, known for their exceptional service, exquisite food, beautiful window displays and the iconic cake trolley.
We all know their products are top tier, but they've just had even more recognition at the 2026 Great British Awards.
Announced in London, Betty's won gold for their Yorkshire Shortbread Biscuits which were judged by Cherish Finden, internationally renowned pastry chef.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Judging in the Sweet Biscuits category was led by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
She said: "A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste. The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat.
"Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread. I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea."
Gavin Johnson, head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, said: "We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.
"This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.
"Most importantly, the award belongs to the talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.
"Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations."
Emily Sergeant -
23rd August 2023 
