Food

Population Media - In a world where over 800 million people suffer from hunger and malnutrition, the staggering reality of food waste cannot be ignored. Each year, roughly a third of all food produced is lost or wasted, amounting to 1.3 billion tons of food suitable for human consumption. This is especially alarming as the global population continues to grow, with projections estimating a rise to 8.6 billion by 2030. The challenge of feeding a larger population while reducing food waste becomes increasingly daunting.

Food waste occurs at every stage of the food “life cycle,” from agricultural production to consumption and disposal. Inefficiencies during harvesting, transportation, storage, and distribution are common culprits. For example, crops may be lost due to poor handling or pests during harvest, while perishable goods can spoil during transportation due to lack of proper refrigeration. In homes and restaurants, food is frequently discarded because of misunderstandings over expiration dates or simply being forgotten in the fridge.

Newsweek - Kodiak Cakes LLC has voluntarily recalled boxes of their Buttermilk and Vanilla Waffles because of the possibility of the presence of "soft plastic film."  In a notice last week, Kodiak said that Costco members in the Midwest region should return the Kodiak Power Waffles Buttermilk & Vanilla 40 count with a use by date of January 10, 2026. ... The impacted waffles are being voluntarily recalled "due to the potential presence of soft plastic film," Kodiak said in the notice. Kodiak said that as of August 26, no injuries were reported related to the recall and no other Kodiak products are impacted. According to Costco Wholesale's website, the Midwest region consists of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Tennessee and Wisconsin.