What is The Jamie Oliver Group?
The Jamie Oliver Group is a commercial business with a big heart — social purpose is right at its core. Since 1999, it’s been on a mission to create a healthier, happier world through the joy of food. This isn’t just about cooking; it’s about changing lives, breaking down barriers, and making good food accessible to everyone. From teaching people to cook to improving school dinners, the group blends business with a genuine passion for social impact.
Main Benefits and Key Facts
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes the Jamie Oliver Group stand out:
- Joined the B Corp community with an impressive score of 101.1 — showing real commitment to social and environmental performance.
- Jamie’s Ministry of Food Foundation aims to teach 1 million people to cook by 2030.
- Launched the apprenticeship programme Fifteen in 2001, setting a tone of change and opportunity.
- Improved school dinners since 2005, focusing on investment, standards, and leadership for children’s health.
- Created The Ministry of Food in 2008, proving anyone can learn to cook in just 24 hours.
- Produced the fastest-selling non-fiction book of 2010 with 30-Minute Meals, showing what people really want.
- Made a bold impact in America’s unhealthiest town in 2010, helping Huntington evolve for the better.
Breaking New Ground with Fifteen and School Dinners
Fifteen wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a statement. Launched in 2001, it opened ears and eyes to the world’s challenges and asked, “Why can’t we change it?” This apprenticeship programme set the tone for everything that followed, blending opportunity with social change. Then came the focus on school dinners in 2005 — because feeding millions of children every day is no small deal. The Jamie Oliver Group pushed for better investment, higher standards, and strong leadership, knowing that school food shapes a whole generation’s health.
The Ministry of Food: Cooking for Everyone
In 2008, The Ministry of Food took things to the streets — literally. It showed that anyone could learn to cook in just 24 hours. With “10 recipes to save your life” and a focus on nutrition, it was all about empowering people. Even a decade later, this initiative remains a beacon of hope and practical help, proving that cooking skills can change lives.
Books and TV: Making Cooking Accessible and Fun
Jamie Oliver’s 30-Minute Meals in 2010 wasn’t just a hit on TV; it was the fastest-selling non-fiction book of the year. Why? Because it tapped into what people really wanted — quick, tasty meals without fuss. Later, 5 Ingredients: Quick & Easy Food in 2018 simplified cooking even more with short shopping lists, making it super easy for busy folks to enjoy home-cooked meals. And then there’s Veg in 2019, celebrating meat-free food that’s joyful and fulfilling, proving veggies can steal the show.
Responding to the Pandemic: Keep Cooking & Carry On
When the UK went into lockdown in 2020, lots of people suddenly found themselves cooking more — some for the first time. Jamie Oliver Group responded with Keep Cooking & Carry On, offering easy recipes for basics like bread and pasta, plus flexible meal ideas with ingredient swaps. It was a lifeline for new and experienced cooks alike, helping more people than ever get busy in the kitchen. Happy days indeed.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger — improving nutrition and food access.
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being — promoting healthier eating habits.
- SDG 4: Quality Education — teaching cooking skills and nutrition.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth — creating apprenticeships and job opportunities.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — encouraging sustainable food choices.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for 2030 and Beyond
The Jamie Oliver Group isn’t slowing down. With a clear goal to teach 1 million people to cook by 2030, the journey continues. It’s about more than recipes — it’s about changing the way people think about food, health, and community. By blending business savvy with social purpose, the group is proving that food can be a powerful force for good. So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, there’s a place for you in this movement. Ready to join in?
