AGP Executive Report

Japan Food Tax Relief: Japan’s Cabinet approved a two-year cut to the consumption tax on food and beverages to 1% from 8%, aiming to ease inflation for households, with cash support planned for low- and middle-income earners. APAC GLP-1 Food Shift: A new Ingredion/ANZ market read says GLP-1 uptake is reshaping eating habits across Australia and New Zealand, pushing demand for products with more protein, fibre and “cleaner” labels. Coca-Cola HBC Update: Coca-Cola HBC lifted guidance after a strong first half, citing improved volumes and margins across its portfolio. Starbucks Korea Fallout: South Korean police raided Starbucks Korea HQ over the “Tank Day” promotion, accused of defaming activists killed in the 1980 Gwangju pro-democracy uprising. Food Safety/Outbreak Watch: Chipotle pulled jalapeños tied to salmonella concerns in Minnesota, as health officials track cases. Trade & Exports: Ghana’s GEPA opened a London Trade House to give exporters— including processed foods and beverages— a permanent buyer hub. Packaging Push: A paper cups manufacturer announced expanded sustainable packaging production, targeting foodservice and beverage brands. Health & Diet Trends: Coverage highlights rising interest in higher-protein foods and “fibermixing” as consumers move from quantity to specific fibre types. Crime Hits Fast Food: A TikTok influencer was shot dead during a livestream outside a fast-food restaurant in Culiacan, underscoring security risks around public venues.

Food Science: Researchers are still pushing chocolate forward, probing how microbes, crystallization, and “bloom” shape flavor and texture in a market projected to hit about $147B in 2026. CPG Expansion: PepsiCo is adding refrigerated gazpacho to U.S. fresh/perimeter shopping, launching Alvalle gazpacho at select Whole Foods. Functional Drinks: Brew Shockalaka, a zero-sugar nootropic RTD coffee, is rolling into Schnucks Markets across Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana. Food Safety: Chipotle pulled jalapeños from Minnesota stores after a possible salmonella link, while a broader U.S. cyclospora outbreak has now reported first deaths in Michigan. Retail & Convenience: Walmart expands Wing drone delivery in Central Florida, offering fast drops for small orders. Industry Jobs: New analysis finds U.S. food manufacturing hit a record 1.77M workers in 2025, even as its share of the workforce keeps shrinking. Local Food Events: A Winona “Salads and Strings” fundraiser (Aug. 15) and Made in Hawai‘i Festival (Aug. 20–23) spotlight community food culture.

Food Safety Crisis: Michigan confirmed the first two U.S. deaths tied to the cyclospora outbreak, with health officials linking cases to iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell across multiple states and reporting thousands of illnesses and hundreds of hospitalizations. Regulatory Crackdown (India): India’s FSSAI banned Dabur products carrying misleading “100%” claims, including items like organic honey and apple cider vinegar, and flagged improper use of organic logos. Retail & Convenience (Singapore): Cold Storage is rolling out 24/7 “On The Go” convenience stores at Esso stations, adding ready-to-eat meals and snacks to match shoppers’ smaller, more frequent trips. Fast-Food Expansion (Philippines/US): Jollibee opened a new downtown San Francisco store, pushing its North America footprint to 100+ locations. Beverage Policy (Philippines): The Marcos administration is weighing higher excise taxes on sweetened drinks, alcohol and tobacco to offset revenue losses from worker and small-business tax relief. Local Food Business: Wisconsin’s Minocqua Brewing said it will appeal after the state moved to revoke its licenses over alleged permit and tax issues tied to canned beer transport.

Fast-Food Expansion: Raising Cane’s is pushing growth with seven new openings in August, including first-time markets in eastern North Carolina and southeastern Georgia, plus multiple remodel reopens across several states. Beef Supply Watch: Tyson CEO Donnie King says reopening the Mexican cattle border won’t fully fix US beef shortages this year, as the herd hits a 75-year low and prices stay elevated. Food Safety Shock: Michigan confirmed the first two deaths in the US cyclospora outbreak, tied to severe underlying conditions, as the outbreak continues to be linked to iceberg lettuce from central Mexico. New Drink Drops: HTeaO launched a limited-time Pineapple Chipotle Refresher with Tajín Clásico, while Penn Station Sandwiches rolled out fresh-squeezed lemonade flavors in Blue Raspberry and Strawberry. Seasonal Menu Buzz: Wendy’s is testing an Apple Crumble Frosty Fusion for fall, swapping pumpkin for apple flavors. Regulatory Crackdown: Malawi’s Bureau of Standards suspended four food processing firms after hygiene and safety failures found in a surveillance blitz. Local Business Moves: Red Chillez Indian Fusion is debuting in Sarasota via a food truck ahead of its next restaurant location.

Food Safety Crackdown (India): India’s FSSAI moved against select alcohol brands over alleged external flavoring used to mimic rum/whisky traits and misleading age claims, with enforcement tied to label and formulation violations. Fast-Food Violence (US): Police say the suspect in the Twin Falls, Idaho In-N-Out shooting, Chad Williams, died by self-inflicted gunshot; authorities credited an off-duty officer and a citizen with helping divert him, after three deaths and seven injuries. Restaurant & Beverage Awards: Los Angeles Taiwanese American fine-dining spot Kato won the 2026 James Beard award for its wine and other beverages program and earned a second Michelin star. Convenience Retail Expansion (Singapore): Cold Storage launched “On The Go” at Esso stations, rolling out ready-to-eat meals and beverages across 58 sites through 2026. Functional Drinks Innovation (Philippines): Biocare LifeSciences launched dissolving green tea film “T-Solve Green Tea,” aiming to replace traditional tea bags. Protein Trend (US Dairy): A report highlights how whey protein “protein-maxxing” is reshaping US dairy economics and product shelves. QSR Menu Moves (Singapore): Lotteria opened at Jurong Point with a Singapore-exclusive breakfast menu. Local Alcohol Restrictions (Philippines): Isabela province imposed a temporary ban on alcohol sales and consumption during Tropical Depression Luis, with fines for violations.

Fast-Food Violence: A mass shooting at a newly opened In-N-Out Burger in Twin Falls, Idaho left 3 people dead and 7 injured, with the suspected gunman found nearby; the In-N-Out CEO said an employee was among the victims, while witnesses described an armed bystander firing back during the chaos. Food Safety Watch: North Carolina reported 718 cyclosporiasis cases and 24 hospitalizations since May 1, with interviews pointing to parsley and cilantro as common exposures; officials urge thorough cooking and hydration. Alcohol Compliance Crackdown (India): India’s FSSAI moved against liquor makers over alleged flavoring and labeling violations, including claims that products were sold under standard spirit names despite added external flavors. Hospital Food Pricing (India): A Haldiram’s breakfast bill at Delhi’s Apollo Hospital sparked online outrage after a visitor claimed charges above Rs 700 for dosas, tea, and chaas. Restaurant Expansion: Dayton’s Bistecca rolled out new Tuscan-inspired menu items and drink additions. Chain Opening (US): Culver’s is set to open in Bartow, Florida on Aug. 3 with frozen custard giveaways and promotions. Beverage Innovation (Japan): Starbucks Japan launched “Clear Coffee” aimed at non-coffee drinkers, using a ristretto-style extraction to reduce bitterness. Food Waste Relief: The Cheesecake Factory highlighted its programs to donate surplus food and cut landfill waste.

Violence at Fast-Food Spot: A gunman opened fire at an In-N-Out Burger in Twin Falls, Idaho, killing at least three people and injuring seven others, with police saying the threat is over and the shooter was found dead nearby. Food Safety Recall Moment: McDonald’s Korea halted sales of its Chungju corn cheese croquette burger after customers complained they found small stones in the product, ending the campaign early despite rapid sales. Brand Expansion & Hospitality: Hyderabad Marriott launched Vayu, a rooftop resto-bar built around regional Indian flavors, signature cocktails, and social dining. Global Travel Demand: Türkiye is seeing a cruise boost, with Istanbul, Kuşadası and İzmir gaining sailings as security concerns shift itineraries; the sector expects major economic impact from cruise spending. Viral Food Culture: A TikTok “cheeseburger dipped in Coca-Cola” hack sparked backlash and debate, with McDonald’s jokingly questioning the idea. Local Business Opening: Soboba welcomed a new McDonald’s location, featuring community events and tribal participation.

Food Safety Shock: A California cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to lettuce supplier Taylor Farms is now hitting growers hard, with farmers trashing romaine crops and dumping hundreds of thousands of pounds as demand collapses. Fast-Food Fallout: Yum Brands says Taco Bell sales fell about 2% in the late-June to July 27 period after the Cyclospora link, though executives expect a temporary hit as recovery signals emerge. Retail & Supply Chain: NielsenIQ reports U.S. beer dollar sales down 3.4% in the four weeks ended July 18, with demand softness driving most of the decline. Beverage Culture & Regulation: At Lollapalooza, 21+ fans can buy 5mg hemp-derived THC canned cocktails, while California cities move to crack down on drive-thrus amid walkability and air-safety concerns. Local Food & Openings: Taylor House Brewing Co. plans a second Lehigh Valley taproom with a creekside beer garden and mini-golf. Brand/Store News: Ferrero invests $86M in Mexico, signaling continued FMCG expansion.

Food Safety & Public Health: Michigan’s cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to recalled lettuce may be easing, but officials warn the risk isn’t over as case reporting delays and ongoing illness continue. School Nutrition Policy: In Mumbai, schools are removing FDA-targeted junk foods from canteens and pushing parents toward healthier home-packed lunches, including bans on fried items and sugary drinks. Innovation in Plant-Based Desserts: hacco is partnering with MOF pastry and ice cream champion Chef Jean-Thomas Schneider to launch premium plant-based soft serve inspired by koji, debuting in Brooklyn. Functional Beverages & Market Moves: Emami expects its “new-age” brands and health/wellness beverages to reach about a quarter of turnover by FY30, signaling continued investment in Gen Z-focused growth. Food Tech & Delivery: Central Asia’s first autonomous delivery system debuts in Astana, using QR ordering and drone drop-offs for snacks, drinks, and event souvenirs. Industry & Community Dining: Taste of Elk River marks 20 years with a new venue and VIP “first-class” tasting experience, while Wagamama expands into UK motorway services for the first time. Consumer Behavior Research: A University of Michigan study links ultra-processed foods with addictive-like behavior, adding fuel to the debate over engineered foods and overeating.

Taco Bell Recovery Push: After a cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded lettuce dented traffic and sales, Yum! Brands says the brand is seeing a “meaningful” near-term impact but is rebuilding with lettuce-free menu messaging and steep $1-style promos. Food Safety & Public Health: The CDC reports thousands of confirmed cyclospora cases across dozens of states, keeping consumer caution high and spotlighting supply-chain risk. New Beverage Launches: Califia Farms rolls out limited-edition Banana Crème Almondmilk Latte and Simple & Organic Banana Crème Almond Creamer, while Gruppo Gimoka strengthens its ESG roadmap by acquiring ISO 45001 occupational health and safety certification. Retail & Convenience Deals: Alimentation Couche-Tard moves to buy Poland’s Zabka in a deal valued at over $12B, signaling continued expansion in quick-serve food and beverage. Local Food & Hospitality: A Ukrainian missile strike destroyed Lviv winery Axis Wine, prompting a rebuild fundraiser; meanwhile, The Groove opens as a new Lone Tree community hub blending coffee, cocktails, and contemporary cuisine. Community Food Events: National Avocado Day sparks restaurant guacamole deals, and the Bremer County Fair postpones its combine demolition derby after heavy rain.

Functional Foods & Packaging: Rapeseed waste is being turned into biodegradable active packaging that can slow spoilage in fresh produce, while psyllium is highlighted as a fast-growing functional fibre with digestive and metabolic benefits. Food Safety: Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety reported a 99.9% satisfactory rate in June testing, with nine samples flagged as unsatisfactory. Corporate Moves in Water & Beverages: Nestlé Nigeria plans to transfer its water business into a new 50:50 global joint venture, Peranel, with Platinum Equity—covering major water and premium beverage brands. Retail & Restaurant Expansion: Starbucks Reserve opens its first South India store in Hyderabad, and Germany’s L’Osteria expands in Mallorca/Spain with pizza-and-pasta focus. Supply Chain & Operations: Kerry Group’s half-year results point to growth in snacks, meat and beverages, alongside efficiency efforts across manufacturing and digital systems. Market & Policy Watch: Japan’s planned cut to food and beverage consumption tax to 1% is debated as potentially inflationary, while China’s manufacturing PMI slipped to 49.2, with food and beverage-related sub-indices staying optimistic. Transit Food Access: Western Railway in Mumbai will introduce 40 authorised vendors on Churchgate–Virar trains to curb illegal hawking.

Cyclospora Fallout in Fast Food: Yum! Brands says Taco Bell sales are stabilizing after the cyclospora outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce, with US same-store sales down 2% but expected to be temporary as customers return. Franchise Growth Watch: West Coast Sourdough hit 50+ locations and 70+ more in development, expanding into Texas and landing a multi-unit deal in Georgia. Food Color Shift: A new industry report finds sales of products using natural colors jumped in 2025, while artificial-color items barely rose, as FDA pressure and state bans push reformulation. Public Health & Food Safety: Kenya pledged to strengthen rules on industrial trans fats after a stakeholder forum, aiming to cut diet-related disease. Retail Food Policy: New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani plans five government-owned grocery stores offering a 30% discount on staples, aiming to lower costs for residents. Halal Labeling Transparency: A Canadian meat transparency debate highlights that rules require certifier names only when halal is claimed—raising questions for consumers in schools and childcare settings.

Food Security Push (UK): Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Waitrose and Co-op joined charities and health groups in a letter to Andy Burnham warning the “next food shock” is coming and urging a Good Food Bill to make food security a national priority. School Nutrition Crackdown (India): Maharashtra bans junk food sales within 50 metres of schools, targeting items like vada pav, samosa, cold drinks, chocolates and ice cream. Alcohol Rules (Croatia): Split City Council approved a temporary overnight alcohol sales ban from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. until 15 September to curb noise, disorder and litter. Japan Tax & Prices: Japan’s PM Takaichi plans to cut the consumption tax on food and beverages to 1% from April 2027, with economists warning it may worsen inflation. Packaging Sustainability: New market reports project strong growth for recycled containerboard and foodservice paper bags as regulations and demand for greener packaging accelerate. Travel Food Safety: A gastroenterologist warns travellers that stomach bugs spread via faecal-oral routes—wash hands before eating and avoid food left at room temperature. Fast-Food Marketing: KFC extended its Double Chicken Dynamite Burger launch through community “house parties” with PlayAce, aiming to reach Gen Z beyond paid ads.

QSR & IPO Buzz: Taco John’s added seasoned QSR executive Sarah McAloon to its board, signaling a push for long-term growth. Capital Markets: Jersey Mike’s is poised for a major IPO this week, with reports of heavy demand. Food Safety Shock: A cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce has driven customers away from fast-food and salad chains, with fresh lettuce sales also falling. Public Health Guidance: Doctors stress hydration and oral rehydration during severe diarrhea, while officials continue outbreak investigations. Retail & Menu Trends: Coffee slushies are surging in popularity; experts say the health impact depends on added sugars and toppings. Local Dining Moves: Caribbean spot Dos Islas opened in Milwaukee’s Story Hill, while Burger King locations in New York are closing for renovations. Consumer/Brand Culture: Cracker Barrel’s CEO transition follows backlash over a rebrand, including logo changes. Policy & Regulation: Maharashtra banned junk food sales near schools, targeting chips, samosas, sugary drinks and more. Global Food & Drink: Wildfires in Spain’s wine regions have damaged historic vineyards, threatening some of the oldest vines.

Alcohol Retail Impact in Latvia: Latvia’s alcohol-sale restrictions haven’t cut overall consumption much, but retailers say shoppers changed when they buy—hurting some categories like beer-based cocktails and fortified wines while non-alcoholic options and pricier alcohol gained. UK Bread Industry Shake-up: Hovis Bakeries’ creation signals deeper restructuring in Britain’s bread market as manufacturers face shifting demand, higher costs, and supermarket pressure. Beverage Transparency Push: Coca-Cola, PepsiCo and others are adding QR codes to cans and bottles, sending shoppers to a “Good to Know” site with ingredient background and safety assessments. KFC Water Upgrade (Indonesia): ANGEL says it’s supporting KFC Indonesia’s nationwide water purification upgrade with outlet-specific solutions to improve food and beverage prep reliability. Protein Drinks Caution: Experts warn protein beverages can raise dehydration risk if people don’t drink enough water—especially with heat or heavy exercise. Coca-Cola India Outlook: Coca-Cola CEO Henrique Braun calls India a long-term growth market across affordable and premium segments, citing volume gains and continued investment. Packaging Sustainability: A new report flags paper bags’ growth as plastic restrictions and sustainability goals drive demand across retail and food service.

Food Policy & Health Taxes: In the Philippines, House Ways and Means chair Rep. Miro Quimbo says President Marcos Jr.’s tax relief for workers could cut revenues by about P50B, with lawmakers planning to offset it via higher taxes on vape products, sugar-sweetened beverages and single-use plastics. Beverage Consumer Insights: FMI’s “Power of Beverage 2026” report, built on Circana sales data, finds shoppers spent nearly $295B on retail beverages and are increasingly choosing drinks for benefits like hydration, energy, protein and gut health. Nutrition Claims Under Scrutiny: A new study questions prebiotic soda health marketing, finding many products have sugar levels comparable to fiber and may not deliver meaningful gut benefits. Fast Food & Pricing Pressure: Multiple reports highlight ongoing fast-food value battles, including McDonald’s menu pricing moves and continued debate over what’s “cheap” as prices rise. Food Safety Watch: The U.S. cyclospora situation continues to expand, with experts pointing to vulnerabilities in the food safety system. Local Food Events: Maine’s Wild Blueberry Weekend (Aug. 1–2) and Erie’s CelebrateErie (Aug. 14–16) both spotlight regional food and beverage experiences, from farm tastings to custom festival drinks.