food consumers

Post-Brexit labelling requirements on British goods are set to be scrapped, with the EU-derived 'not for EU' markings that appeared on many food products expected to disappear under new rules announced by the UK government. The labels were introduced after Brexit as part of trade arrangements for goods sold in Northern Ireland, and their removal is being discussed as a simplification for retailers and shoppers.

Health authorities are investigating a salmonella outbreak that has again been linked to tomatoes from Italy. The recurrence of the contamination issue has raised concerns about food safety controls in the supply chain and prompted attention from food safety regulators and consumers across Europe.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is currently monitoring four active foodborne illness outbreaks. The agency has not detailed the foods, pathogens, or states involved in the brief announcement, but the news is drawing attention amid broader public concern over food safety and recent high-profile recalls.

A raw milk cheese produced in Northern California has been recalled as part of an E. coli outbreak investigation. Health officials are working to trace contamination and warn consumers not to eat the affected product. The recall has drawn attention to ongoing food safety concerns around raw milk products, with local outlets reporting on the outbreak's spread and the producer's response.

McDonald's has launched a new advertising network, moving into the fast-growing retail media business. The move means the fast-food chain will sell ad space and use its customer data to help brands reach consumers, following a broader trend among retailers building advertising arms as a new source of revenue.

The government has permitted e-commerce providers to deliver food items and gadgets, expanding the scope of online retail services. Details on when the rules take effect and which platforms qualify have not yet been reported. The move is expected to widen consumer access to delivered goods and open new business opportunities for online sellers.

The gluten-free food sector is under scrutiny as growing consumer demand collides with evolving regulatory standards. Industry observers note that clearer labelling rules and stricter definitions of gluten-free products could reshape how manufacturers formulate and market their goods, while shoppers continue driving growth in the category for health and dietary reasons.

The 140th Canton Fair Phase 3 will run from October 31 to November 4, 2026, at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou. Under the official theme 'Better Life', the phase focuses on fashion, textiles, footwear, bags, food and related consumer goods, drawing international buyers and suppliers to one of China's largest trade events.

Federal immigration agents are conducting raids at meatpacking plants in Texas, Kansas and Oklahoma. In response, cattle industry groups including the Texas Cattle Feeders Association issued a joint statement warning that these disruptions could lead to higher beef prices for consumers and shake the entire meat supply chain.

UBS analysts say AI shopping agents, which search and buy products on a customer's behalf, could significantly change hardline, broadline and food retail. The report suggests such agents may shift how consumers discover and purchase goods, with potential consequences for retailers' pricing, branding and online traffic. The analysis is circulating among market watchers tracking how automation affects the retail sector.