Extreme heat, drought, and wildfires across Europe are causing widespread crop failures, threatening reduced food production and pushing up prices for staples like olive oil, grains, and vegetables.
As UK temperatures exceed 30C, experts advise on diet changes to manage heat. Tips include opting for protein sources that require less cooking or produce less body heat, increasing hydration through water-rich foods, and understanding that warm drinks can be as effective as cold ones for cooling.
Greggs reports a 7.2% increase in total sales to £1.1bn for the first half of 2026, attributed to new store openings, successful menu adaptations (iced matcha lattes, salads, chicken rolls), and controlled price increases, despite UK heatwaves.
Sales of non-red and premium cherry-on-the-vine tomatoes are rapidly increasing in the UK, challenging the dominance of the classic round red tomato. "Non-red" varieties like yellow, orange, and green now account for 21% growth, while cherry-on-the-vine sales are set to overtake traditional salad tomatoes.
As UK temperatures rise, experts suggest dietary changes for hot weather. Focus on easily digestible foods like fruits, vegetables, and carbs, and stay hydrated with water-rich foods and drinks, regardless of temperature.
As UK temperatures soar, experts advise on diet changes for hot weather. Focus on easily digestible foods like fruits, vegetables, and carbs, stay hydrated with water-rich foods, and consider warm drinks. Avoid excessive protein and caffeine.
Blackchin tilapia, an invasive fish from West Africa, is wreaking havoc on Thailand's ecosystems and livelihoods, devastating shrimp farms and outcompeting native species. Despite control efforts, eradication is deemed impossible, leading to a focus on finding economic uses for the fish, including consumption, though public acceptance remains a challenge.
British barbecue culture is transforming with the rise of high-end grills costing over £1,000. Driven by a desire for special experiences and year-round use, these premium devices are shifting from simple grilling to 'gastronomy,' becoming status symbols and investment pieces.
Los Angeles is experiencing a surge in food delivery robots, sparking debate over convenience versus pedestrian obstruction and job displacement. While some residents find them cute and efficient, others cite issues with sidewalk congestion, accessibility, and potential job losses for human drivers.
A personal essay exploring phone addiction and the Brick, a $59 physical device that locks distracting apps using NFC technology. The author describes their daily cycle of scrolling through X, TikTok and other apps, unable to focus on their novel due July 31st, and how the Brick created the necessary friction to break the addiction cycle by requiring a physical trip to a plastic puck to unlock apps.
Pret A Manger CEO Pano Christou reveals the sandwich chain is adapting to consumer trends including reduced bread consumption, hybrid working with quieter Fridays, and demand for healthy Super Plates salads. Despite a reputation for being expensive, Pret has seen 25% growth in subscription sign-ups. The company faced a £500m writedown and £20m in inflation costs last year, absorbing costs rather than raising prices.
