Each to their own, Rosina. I had never made my own mincemeat before a few years ago and I’m not convinced mine is any better than a good quality shop-bought version. Last year I made some because it used up some of the glut of apples everyone had.
However, I enjoy pottering in a warm kitchen making something that’s not yet another everyday meal. That’s why I make my own Xmas cake & pudding, too. It’s something different. If others choose to buy theirs, it really doesn’t bother me one whit, so long as everyone is happy.
Frank Field, Labour Peer has died, aged 81y.