Sweet-Drink Tax Push: Health groups in the Philippines renewed calls for higher taxes on sweetened beverages, arguing the move could curb type 2 diabetes risk and keep rates rising with inflation. UK Fast-Food Expansion: Slim Chickens plans up to 20 new UK stores, including drive-through openings starting in Wales, aiming to create as many as 1,000 jobs. Food Waste Rollout: Halton residents are set to receive new food waste bins starting Nov. 2, with guidance on what can go in caddies and what must stay out. Oktoberfest Boom: Munich’s Oktoberfest hit a record 7.4 million visitors, with beer and food consumption rising and more guests choosing non-alcoholic options. Ghana Juice Relief: Ghana abolished a 20% excise duty on locally produced fruit juices from Oct. 1, easing costs for manufacturers and boosting agro-processing. Energy Drink Safety Debate: Commentaries and health coverage warn that energy drinks are becoming more dangerous as marketing and college sports partnerships expand. Processed Meat & Brain Health: A new review links higher processed meat intake with increased dementia and Alzheimer’s risk, while noting the findings are observational. NAFDAC Alcohol Crackdown: Nigeria’s NAFDAC seized N300m of banned sachet and sub-200ml PET alcohol in Lagos, arresting distributors and retailers. Japan Tax Cut Plan: Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi pledged to cut consumption tax on food to 1% for two years without new bonds, paired with support for low- and middle-income households. Oktoberfest in the US Capital: D.C. restaurants and beer gardens are running Oktoberfest-style events with Bavarian food and brews.