In Conversation with Lily Simpson at the Detox Kitchen
The Detox Kitchen delivers seasonal, healthy food packages to your door and also has two delis and a fitness studio in London. Here its founder, Lily Simpson, discusses her approach to achieving a well-balanced diet.
What was your personal journey to healthy eating?
I have always loved cooking. When I was younger I used to rush home from school to cook for my siblings. When I changed my diet to centre around healthy food, I noticed how much happier and productive I was so I’ve never looked back.<
How did you come up with the idea for The Detox Kitchen originally?
I had started to hear about diet delivery companies and did a little bit of research into them, tried out a few and thought, I can do this better and I can make the food fresher and tastier. I was already running my own catering company from a commercial kitchen. So in the end, I went from coming up with the idea to launching that business in a matter of two months! My mission was to get people eating vibrant, unprocessed food, proving that a diet doesn’t have to be faddy, unsatisfying and difficult to stick to.
What is its ethos?
Food is something that should be celebrated, that should be enjoyed and shared with others. We believe that using local, seasonal produce not only makes the tastiest food, but also provides us with the most nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Our focus is on the foods that work with our bodies, that are natural and delicious, and that mean we have good wholesome food in our lives for good. We’re very transparent about the ingredients that we use, because when you’re sourcing fresh, local produce, and preparing and cooking it simply, there is no need for closed doors. We choose not to cook with wheat, dairy or refined sugar. And whilst we don’t think it necessary for people to completely exclude these foods from their diet, we believe that because they are highly processed and stripped of their nutrients, it’s best to cut down on them. And we make it easier for our customers to do just that.
What does your daily diet look like?
I’m lucky enough to eat most of my meals at our delis as I am usually up in town for meetings. I’ll tend to have porridge or a piece of toast for breakfast, a big bowl of salad for lunch then either a vegetable stew or stir fry with lean protein for dinner at home.
What are your three can’t-live-without food staples?
Avocados, sweet potatoes and aubergine. My vice is chocolate!
Do you have a regular wellness routine?
I’ll try to do yoga at least twice a week, although since having children I’ll admit it’s sometimes hard to find the time. I also have a bath before bed every night to unwind, and love using Pai Skincare’s Rosehip oil on my face.
What advice would you give to women who want to start their own business?
Just do it. Don’t overthink everything - it will give you fear and will prevent you from making decisions based on instinct. Having a vision is also key, and listening to people, but in the end, trust your gut.
How do you stay healthy away from home?
I never avoid food for health purposes when I’m travelling or eating out - both should be relaxing, indulgent and enjoyable. I love eating fresh fish and loads of veggies so I always go for that option. I pick the most seasonal option, and normally order a side of extra green veg to ensure I’m getting a nice boost of nutrients.
What are you working on next?
The Detox Kitchen is undergoing a whole rebrand that is happening in March which is very exciting, as well as the opening of our next deli in spring.
Find out more about The Detox Kitchen
