Food Prices Under Heat Pressure (South Korea): A severe heat wave is driving sharp jumps in produce costs, with spinach up 152.3% (100g), cucumbers up 54.8% (10), and blue lettuce up 41.7%—while livestock and fish deaths (901,602 animals; 864,497 fish) are also pushing seafood prices higher. Food Safety Fallout (US Cyclospora): The Cyclospora outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce is spreading across 15 states, with reported infections topping 25,000 nationwide, and retailers say consumer trust is taking a hit—salad sales and restaurant traffic are sliding. Food Safety Fallout (US Salmonella/Jalapeños): The USDA issued a public health alert for 18 meat and poultry products containing FDA-regulated jalapeños linked to a Salmonella outbreak affecting 27 states; consumers are urged not to eat implicated items. Regulatory Label Scrutiny (India Spirits): India’s food regulator warned Diageo over Royal Challenge whisky label claims, including “American oak casks” and “Scotch” wording that may mislead consumers. Local Enforcement (UK Hygiene): A Warrington café was given a one-star food hygiene rating after inspectors found out-of-date food, improper fridge temperatures, and missing soap. Market Moves (India Delivery): Ownly and magicpin say they’re expanding in India’s food delivery market as restaurants push for better economics and more transparent promotions. Business Growth (UK Ingredients): Middledale Foods, celebrating 30 years, plans capacity and infrastructure investment after record FY25 turnover of £31.2m. School Meals Boost (Colorado): Colorado awarded $23M to expand Healthy School Meals for All, including more locally sourced food and higher pay for nutrition staff. Food & Community (Malaysia Expo): Ipoh’s Jom Makan 2026 Expo (Aug 28–30) will spotlight local specialties and food heritage with 50+ stalls.