Food Safety & Politics: U.S. foodborne outbreaks and recalls are spilling into the midterm campaign, with chains pulling items like lettuce and jalapeños as voters question whether everyday meals are safe. Front-of-Pack Labeling Fight (India): India’s Supreme Court reserved judgment on FSSAI’s red warning label plan for high sugar, salt and fat, while industry groups warn the red design could confuse shoppers and push for scientifically set thresholds. Functional Beverages Scrutiny: A 2026 webinar highlights how “zero sugar/sugar-free” claims face legal pressure, especially for products using alternative sweeteners, as brands juggle formulation, taste and compliance. Brewing Costs Rise: Heineken says fuel-driven input cost inflation in Asia is lifting brewing expenses, with the company passing much of it to consumers while relying on productivity and revenue management. Restaurant & QSR Moves: McDonald’s is piloting a retail media ad network across hundreds of stores, while Cracker Barrel signals menu price increases amid a widening value gap. Global Food Business: Saudi Arabia’s Saudifood Show opens in Jeddah to boost local manufacturing and investment, and Royal Unibrew will consolidate Nørrebro Bryghus production into its Albani brewery in Odense by end-2026. Market & Product Updates: Westfalia Fruit outlines a more consumer-focused next phase for avocado growth in Asia, and S&B Foods plans to launch its UMAMI TOPPING condiment in Europe starting with the UK.