ALL THE JOY, NO JANUARY REQUIRED
Christmas treats and keeping active can happily share the same diary. For entrepreneur Alison Cork MBE, that means making room for chocolate alongside the festive walks and workouts.
All the Jingle, Less of the Junk
Her new snack brand, LEKA LEKA, brings a little chocolate-covered joy to the mix. Made with dates and ingredients including nuts, seeds, oats and chicory root, these plant-based bites come in Hazelnut, Pistachio Rose and Raspberry. Each ball contains 72 calories, is high in fibre and has zero added sugar, artificial flavours or preservatives.
Fit for a Stocking
In eye popping bright pink, green and orange boxes, they make cheerful presents for teachers or festive stocking fillers for fitness-loving friends who still fancy a chocolate treat. For a present that keeps the joy coming beyond Christmas, you can also gift a subscription, with a fresh delivery each month.
Pop a pack in your gym bag, take one on a winter walk or enjoy a bite with your afternoon coffee between wrapping presents. Each pack contains three balls, so there’s enough to share – if you’re feeling festive.
The business has an energetic origin story, too. Tipped off that Sir Richard Branson was filming at Virgin Active, Alison dashed across London and secured a one-minute opportunity to pitch. Her chocolate-covered date balls are now stocked in selected Virgin Active gyms with Kauai cafés.
The recipe began life in her book, Fit & Fabulous Over 50, before enthusiastic feedback inspired Alison to launch a food business at 62.
“We don’t talk enough about starting new things later in life,” she says. “LEKA LEKA is proof that experience, confidence and a bit of nerve are powerful ingredients.”
A little inspiration for anyone already thinking about their next chapter — although there’s no need to wait until January for the chocolate.
LEKA LEKA: £26.95 for 7 boxes or subscription from £22.95. Available from selected independent delis, Kauai cafés within selected Virgin Active gyms and alisoncork.com
