MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Youdle) – Grocery shoppers are noticing more fruits and veggies wrapped in single-use plastic, and opinions are split. According to a Yahoo report, some shoppers appreciate the convenience and perceived freshness, while others worry about waste, cost and whether that thin layer actually protects produce. Stores are responding to preferences, but it’s helpful to know what to look for at the produce aisle. Here are practical points to keep in mind so your purchases match your priorities: Freshness vs. waste: Plastic can reduce bruising and moisture loss, but not always enough to justify the extra packaging for every item. Price and value: Packaged produce often costs more per item. Check unit pricing or compare with loose options. Safety and hygiene: Some shoppers prefer wrapping for perceived cleanliness, but rinsing loose produce at home is effective too. Recyclability: Look for recycling symbols — thin film plastic often needs special drop-off recycling, no...
The cocoa industry faces a formidable challenge as cocoa prices surge, doubling over the past year. This surge is primarily driven by a shortage of cocoa beans, compounded by climate change-induced disruptions and agricultural complexities. Extreme weather events, such as droughts and excessive rainfall, have severely impacted cocoa-growing regions, resulting in reduced yields. Additionally, factors like the aging cocoa tree population and the proliferation of pests and diseases have exacerbated the supply constraints, presenting a significant obstacle for chocolate manufacturers. In response to the soaring cocoa prices, industry leaders like Hershey and Cadbury's parent company, Mondelez, are at a pivotal moment. Initially, they managed to mitigate the impact through pricing adjustments, but they now face a consumer base increasingly resistant to absorbing further cost burdens. Consequently, both entities are considering additional price hikes to offset cocoa inflation. Hershey...