Former NIH researcher Kevin Hall argues that debates about ultra-processed foods are still missing the deeper mechanisms at play—and explains why asking better questions matters more than chasing tidy definitions.

Tyson Foods has agreed to pay $82.5 million to settle a class action lawsuit from grocers and distributors that claim the meat processor illegally inflated beef prices for years, according to court documents. Tyson’s settlement includes payments to claimants, but needs approval from a judge.

When it comes to snacking, consumers want more than just great taste. Across the globe, a common denominator involves functionality, whether it’s through ingredients, enhanced formulation or even the power of suggestion.

A research project led by plant breeder Germinal reached a significant milestone after successfully developing pea crops with improved nutritional qualities and without the characteristic pea flavor that has long limited their use in food manufacturing.

Along with rising prices, restaurants have been struggling to attract increasingly budget-conscious consumers with menu innovations and special offers while simultaneously competing with grocery delis and heat-and-eat frozen entrees. 

A team of researchers from the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, University of Florida, Gainesville and University of Iowa have developed tools that allow grasses — including major grain crops like corn — to act as living biosensors capable of detecting chemicals in the field.

Many Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program users are dealing with new limits on what they can use the program to buy, including bans on soda, energy drinks and candy, says the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah and West Virginia already have restrictions in place.