Downend curry house wins national award A take-away in Bristol working to reduce single-use plastic has won a national industry award. Rajastan Royal, in Downend, has been named Takeaway of the Year in the South West region for the second year running in the annual Asian Curry Awards. The awards, sponsored by Just Eat, celebrates innovative vision and exceptional food. Naseem Talukdar is marketing manager at Rajastan Royal and founder of Plastic Pollution Awareness and Action Projects (PPAAP), a charity set up to find alternatives to single-use plastic – starting in the food industry. He said: “We are delighted to receive such recognition and are grateful to everyone who supported us.” Reducing single-use plastic The team at the takeaway in Westbourne Road have worked to reduce waste and plastic, as well as increase vegan options. 4
It includes adding the option to only order extras if wanted, introducing biodegradable carrier bags and offering more plant-based choices. Naseem, who has also received a High Sheriff’s Award from the Lord-Lieutenant Bristol in recognition of his contribution to the city, said: “We want to play our part in protecting the planet. We still have a lot of work to do, but it’s in motion.” Awards Organised by the Asian Catering Federation, the awards cover a range of national cuisines, including Chinese, Bangladeshi, Indian, Thai and Middle Eastern. Hundreds of businesses across the country took part and the winners were announced during a ceremony at Grosvenor House in London’s Mayfair, hosted by BBC TV presenter Kate Silverton. Naseem, who lives in Fishponds and is director for social responsibility and sustainability for campaign group UK Curry Connect (UKCC), said the award was good for morale.
