Bird's Custard

Alfred Bird registered as a pharmacist in Birmingham in 1842, having served an apprenticeship to Phillip Harris of that city. He was was a qualified chemist and druggist.

His wife was allergic to eggs and couldn't eat home-made custard, so in 1837, Bird invented an egg-free cutard, supplied in powdered form. Advertising started around 1875 and Bird's Custard quickly became renowned as a wholesome and nutritious food.

Bird later went on to invent baking powder, which revolutionised home baking.

His company's large Birmingham Custard Factory survives, and is now an arts centre.