Coffee & Packaging Scrutiny: Protesters across New York targeted Starbucks over claims its plastic cups are recyclable, arguing they still end up in landfills and incinerators. Coffee Supply Chain Expansion: Kerry Group opened a new state-of-the-art coffee facility in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, its first in the state, making natural coffee flavors and extracts for RTD drinks, ice creams, and coffee-infused alcoholic products. Hemp/THC Policy Shock: A $28B hemp-THC market is fighting for survival after Congress moved to close a federal loophole, with a delayed ban date pushing the fight into December. Food Labeling Push: California signed a bill creating a voluntary “not ultra-processed” label, aiming to help shoppers—especially Black families—spot ultra-processed foods more easily. Local Food Culture & Community: Borough Market teamed with TERN for a week-long pop-up spotlighting refugee-owned food businesses, from Ukrainian honey to Palestinian granola. Water Reuse for Industry: Karachi inaugurated a wastewater treatment and reuse project to supply recycled industrial process water, easing pressure on freshwater supplies. Beverage Innovation Spotlight: OiLChef won Restaurant Solution of the Year at the 2026 Restaurant & Takeaway Innovation Expo for tech designed to improve commercial frying and extend oil life.