Apples for Eggs, a food-swapping event in which attendees swap handmade and home-grown foods, has reached UK shores with huge success. The first event of its kind in York took place just last month, with over 20 stallholders and a range of foods and preserves being traded between producers.

The concept of Apples for Eggs is one that should appeal to any DIY lover in the UK – you make a batch of something, for example a dozen jars of chutney, and take half to the food swap with you (keeping some for yourself, of course!). After taking a look at what other people have brought with them, you make them an offer and get swapping. Your six jars of chutney then become a loaf of bread, a large bunch of fresh kale, a couple of cakes, a jar of lemon curd, and our personal favourite from the York event, a large homemade roll of sushi. You can brand or promote your produce in any way you like, using personalised flyers or business cards to draw people in – the only caveat being that you may not charge money for them, as this somewhat defeats the purpose!

You can find more information about food-swapping events at the Apples for Eggs website. The next event in the UK is still to be announced, but if you’re in the Yorkshire area, keep an eye out around early Spring 2013 – don’t miss it!