Author: Sam Watanuki

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued a warning against consuming Mary Jones drinks. These beverages, made by Jones Soda Company, contain a prohibited form of THC derived from hemp, posing a risk to consumers. The CDPH advises against purchasing or drinking these sodas. Unsafe Ingredients Found Source: Gras Grun/Unsplash The Mary Jones sodas are found to contain THC isolate from hemp, which is illegal in California. This ingredient is intoxicating and can pose health risks, particularly to young people. CDPH Director Tomás J. Aragón emphasized the state’s commitment to public safety. Flavored Sodas Targeting Youth Source: Amanda…

California has long been a leader in promoting solar energy, but recent regulatory changes are raising concerns about the future of solar incentives. With new rules adopted by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), the landscape for community solar projects is set to change significantly, potentially impacting access to solar energy for low-income residents. New Rules Adopted by CPUC Source: Sarah Swenty/USFWS The CPUC adopted new rules for community solar projects, supported by the state’s largest utility companies. The new rules aim to preserve and expand solar programs but also reduce future compensation for solar providers. This reduction in incentives…

Oberweis Dairy, a beloved ice cream brand, recently faced bankruptcy. On Wednesday, the Hoffmann Family of Companies acquired Oberweis and its assets in a competitive auction. Known for its ice cream shops and milk in glass bottles, Oberweis now embarks on a new chapter under new ownership. This acquisition promises exciting changes and potential growth for the historic brand. The Auction Source: Oberweis/Facebook In April, Oberweis Dairy filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, initiating a highly competitive auction. Osprey Capital, the investment arm of Hoffmann Family of Companies, emerged victorious. The winning bid likely exceeded $20 million, surpassing Dutch Farms’ initial…

Nissan has issued a dire warning for owners of certain older vehicle models. The automaker is urging these owners to stop driving their cars immediately due to the increased risk of Takata airbag inflators exploding in a crash, potentially causing serious injuries or fatalities. Affected Vehicle Models Source: Freepik The recall impacts specific Nissan and Infiniti models. The models include the 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, and 2002-2003 Infiniti QX4. Owners are advised to check if their vehicle is affected using their 17-digit VIN on Nissan or Infiniti’s recall websites. Tragic Consequences Source: David McNew/Getty Images The urgency of Nissan’s warning…

Fast food prices have skyrocketed in recent years, outpacing the national inflation rate. While many turn to fast food for affordable meals, recent trends show this may no longer be the case. Here are the chains that have hiked up their prices the most and how it impacts your wallet. Fast Food vs. National Inflation Source: Freepik Since 2014, the cost of goods in the U.S. has risen 31%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In comparison, fast food prices at popular chains have increased by an average of 60%, nearly doubling the national inflation rate. McDonald’s – The…

Earlier this month, WanaBana, a prominent applesauce brand, announced a massive recall of its products due to contamination concerns. Reports of foreign particles found in the applesauce led to an immediate investigation. This recall has significantly impacted the company’s financial stability, ultimately leading to a sudden filing for bankruptcy. Contamination Crisis Source: iStock The recall was initiated after consumers reported finding foreign particles in several batches of applesauce. This discovery prompted an immediate recall to ensure consumer safety. The contamination crisis quickly became a public relations nightmare, with the brand struggling to maintain its reputation amid the negative publicity. Children…

PepsiCo is set to make a significant impact in California with a major expansion of its electric vehicle fleet. Over the next few months, the company will introduce 50 Tesla Semi trucks and 75 Ford E-Transit electric vans across the state, aiming to reach net zero emissions by 2040. Fresno Facility Leads the Way @TeslaNY/X The heart of this initiative is PepsiCo’s Fresno manufacturing and distribution facility. This 170,000-square-foot site will be the home base for the new Tesla Semi trucks, which will distribute products like Pepsi, Gatorade, and Aquafina. Advanced Charging Infrastructure Source: Ernie Journeys/Unsplash To support the new…

Over the past decade, fast food prices have surged dramatically. With inflation affecting every sector, the fast-food industry has not been spared. This price hike impacts millions of Americans who rely on quick, affordable meals. Families looking for convenient dining options are feeling the pinch more than ever. Inflation Hits the Drive-Thru Source: Jeremy Bishop/Unsplash The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that annual inflation in the fast-food sector is currently 4.8%. Since 2014, prices in “limited-service restaurants” have jumped by 47%. This significant increase means that grabbing a quick bite at your favorite fast-food joint is now much more expensive…

Red Lobster, the popular seafood chain, filed for bankruptcy on May 19th, 2023. This news shocked many, especially those who loved their $20 endless shrimp promotion. While some blamed the all-you-can-eat menu item, Senator Elizabeth Warren pointed to a different cause. She argued that private equity greed, not endless shrimp, led to Red Lobster’s financial collapse. Senator Warren’s Statement Source: Wikimedia Commons Senator Elizabeth Warren tweeted, “Red Lobster’s bankruptcy was caused by endless greed, not endless shrimp. It’s the private equity playbook: take over a company, loot the profits, load it up with debt, and leave communities, workers, and customers…

The fast food industry is booming, with global market growth expected to reach $123.43 billion from 2023 to 2027. Despite rising prices and economic challenges, the industry shows resilience and adaptability. With a projected CAGR of 3.28%, the fast food market continues to expand, driven by changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Key Drivers of Growth Source: Freepik According to a report by Technavio, urbanization and a growing white-collar population are major factors driving the market. In 2022 alone, the US added 1,183 new fast food outlets, bringing the total to 197,163. This expansion reflects the industry’s ability to meet…