Functional Beverages Under Fire: A new 2026 webinar spotlights how brands can formulate functional drinks while managing “zero sugar/sugar-free” claim risk, bitter actives, and mouthfeel—plus the legal and regulatory traps ahead. Halal & SME Support: Malaysia’s KUSKOP says it has helped 3,000+ MSMEs secure halal certification, with new partnerships aimed at speeding approvals and boosting digital marketing. Diabetes & Soda Reality Check: A consumer health explainer warns that sugary soda can spike blood glucose quickly, urging people with diabetes to limit or avoid it as an everyday drink. Fast-Food Drink Buzz: Taco Bell rolls out Olivia Rodrigo’s limited-edition “You Seem Pretty Pink” Baja Blast nationwide, tied to a rewards sweepstakes. Snacking Trends: Industry coverage argues “better-for-you” isn’t replacing indulgence—health is being layered into familiar flavors, formats, and textures. Food Safety Watch: Pennsylvania restaurant inspection updates flag temperature control and sanitation lapses at multiple sites. Packaging Policy Shift (Italy): Italy moves to allow compostable single-use plastics for certain fresh produce and HORECA food/drink packaging, certified to EN 13432. Distribution Court Fight (Wine): Kenya’s Wow Beverages loses a bid to block termination of a South African wine distributorship, with the court citing an unwritten deal. New Openings: A Syrian chef’s second Imad’s Syrian Kitchen is set to open in London’s Norton Folgate, while an American diner concept launches at Leeds Bradford Airport.