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Showing posts from September 28, 2025

What shoppers should know about plastic-wrapped produce

  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...

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Listeria Outbreak Linked to Recalled Pasta Meals Leaves 4 Dead Across 15 States

  USA TODAY reports that a growing listeria outbreak tied to recalled ready-to-eat pasta products has now sickened at least 20 people, hospitalized 19, and left four dead. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) say the outbreak has spread across 15 states , with deaths reported in Illinois, Michigan, Texas, and Utah. Tragically, one pregnant woman suffered fetal loss due to the infection. Where the Products Were Sold The recalled pasta meals were distributed nationwide through major grocery retailers, including: Walmart (Marketside Linguine with Meatballs, Grilled Chicken Alfredo) Trader Joe’s (Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo) Kroger (Home Chef Heat & Eat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo) Albertsons/Safeway family of stores (multiple pesto and bowtie pasta salads under Ready Meals and Basil Bowtie labels) The affected products were packaged in various tray or bulk containers, marked wit...

What a Government Shutdown Means for SNAP Benefits

The Food Research & Action Center reports if you rely on SNAP to put food on the table, there’s good news: October 2025 SNAP payments are expected to go out on schedule, even if the government shuts down. Here’s why: SNAP is a federal program, but each state manages its own Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system and sends payment files to vendors by mid-month. Because October benefits are technically “obligated” in September, they’re already locked in and ready to be loaded onto EBT cards. The worry is what happens after October. If a shutdown drags on and the USDA doesn’t give states the green light to send out November’s payment files, families could see delays or interruptions in their benefits. That would create major hardships for households and put stress on grocery stores and communities that depend on consistent SNAP spending. For now, SNAP households should feel confident about October benefits arriving as usual. But the longer Congress stalls, the more uncertain t...

If the Internet Goes Down, Do You Know How to Feed Your Community?

We’re used to internet outages lasting a few hours after a storm, but what if the internet went down everywhere — indefinitely? Experts warn that regional or even nationwide blackouts caused by cyberattacks, grid failures, or system breakdowns are not a matter of if but when . For emergency managers , that warning carries real implications for communities. FEMA data shows that 57% of Americans admit they aren’t prepared for a major disaster. That lack of readiness extends to critical areas like food access . When internet or power goes down, families lose the ability to: Order groceries or essentials online. Pay digitally for food, gas, or water. Access real-time supply chain alerts about shortages. Coordinate distribution of food to vulnerable populations. Security analyst Robert Siciliano urges Americans to rethink the word “prepper” and instead see backup food, water, and power as standard emergency planning. Former Air Force emergency manager Sean Gold agrees, no...

Affordable Fall Treats: ALDI's Best Under $5

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there's nothing better than diving into some fall-themed goodies that won't break the bank. Southern Living recently rounded up some of the best seasonal finds hitting ALDI shelves this October.  All eight festive snacks and pantry staples come in at less than $5, making it easy to celebrate fall without overspending. Here’s the full list of spooky-and-sweet ALDI treats they highlighted: Reggano Halloween Pasta – $2.29 Mama Cozzi’s Halloween Ghost Pizza – $4.99 Southern Grove Halloween Trail Mix – $4.89 Emporium Selection Halloween Cheese Assortment – $4.49 Priano Butternut Squash or Pumpkin Ravioli – $3.69 La Colombe Pumpkin Spice Draft Latte – $2.59 Berryhill Creamy Caramel Dip – $3.49 Benton’s Maple Leaf Crème Cookies – $3.49 From pumpkin-flavored sweets to spooky Halloween delights, ALDI's got you covered. Their wide selection means there's something for everyone without compromising on taste or price...

Amazon to Close All UK Amazon Fresh Stores — and Double Down on Online Grocery Delivery

Amazon is making a major shift in how it does groceries in the UK. The company confirmed it will close all 14 of its Amazon Fresh stores and convert another five locations into Whole Foods Market stores . The move comes after what Amazon calls a “thorough evaluation” of its grocery operations. Instead of physical Fresh stores, the e-commerce giant says it sees “very substantial” growth opportunities in online grocery delivery. From Stores to Screens Amazon opened its first Fresh store in London in 2021, but just four years later, it’s changing course. While physical stores never gained major traction against local rivals like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Ocado, Amazon’s online grocery business is booming. In fact, according to Amazon UK: More than 2 million grocery and household essentials are already available through Amazon.co.uk, Fresh online, Whole Foods, and delivery partners like Morrisons, Co-op, Iceland, and Gopuff . By early next year, 80% of UK Prime members will hav...

How to Keep Your Grocery Bill Under $100 a Week

Let’s be real—grocery prices feel out of control these days. Since 2020, the cost of food has only gone one direction: up. This U.S. Department of Agriculture report shows the average family of four now spends anywhere from $996 to $1,603 a month just on groceries. But here’s the good news: some savvy budget shoppers are proving you can actually eat well for just $100 a week . Yep, you read that right—triple digits or less. A recent  Upworthy article shares how r/budget community on Reddit has been swapping smart tips , and honestly, some of their tricks are game-changers. Here are a few favorites: 1. Frozen veggies are your friend “Frozen veggies. It’s a myth they’re less healthy than fresh. Get the $1 bags from Aldi. No chopping, no waste—just toss them in a pan for 12 minutes and dinner’s ready.” – Dismal_Pop2092 2. Instant Pot = instant savings “Hop on Facebook Marketplace and grab an Instant Pot for $20–40. It’s perfect for whole chickens, which stretch further and ...

Unlocking the Potential of Diverse Inventory: Learn from a Leading Supermarket Experience

Independent grocers, are you ready to expand your store’s inventory and attract more customers? Take inspiration from West Allis' Pan-Asia Supermarket, which stocks over 10,000 Asian grocery items, creating an awe-inspiring shopping experience for its customers. The supermarket is designed like most grocery stores, but its diverse product selection sets it apart. From fresh produce to specialty ingredients, the supermarket provides an extensive range of options that cater to both traditional Asian cooking and adventurous culinary explorations. Why is this relevant to you? Diversifying your stock can draw in customers looking for unique and hard-to-find items, ultimately increasing foot traffic and sales. Consider assessing your current inventory and identifying potential gaps in product offerings that could attract new customer segments. Want to learn more about how Pan-Asia Supermarket has successfully implemented its diverse inventory strategy? Check out the full article here...

Bear Cub's Unexpected Visit to Grocery Store

Bear Cub's Surprise Visit: Engaging the Local Community In an interesting turn of events, a bear cub made an unexpected appearance at a Fry’s grocery store in Oro Valley, Arizona. This unusual visitor roamed the aisles, adding a touch of wildlife wonder to an otherwise ordinary morning. As independent grocers, these unexpected moments can present unique opportunities to engage with the community and increase foot traffic. Events like this create memorable experiences for customers, and sharing them through social media can boost your store’s visibility. Consider these unexpected stories as opportunities to strengthen your brand’s connection with the community. The cub made it out of the store safely and was last seen running down the road outside the store. For more details on this tale, check out the original "Bear Cub's Unexpected Visit to Oro Valley Grocery Store."

Top Credit Cards to Maximize Grocery Savings Now

Top Credit Cards to Maximize Grocery Savings Now Feeling the pinch at the grocery store? You’re not alone. With prices on the rise, finding ways to save is crucial. Luckily, strategic use of the right credit card can transform your grocery bills, turning expenses into rewards and savings. Many credit cards offer substantial benefits for everyday spending, particularly on groceries. The key is to select a card that aligns with your shopping habits, providing cash back, points, or other perks. For instance, cards that offer higher cash back percentages or bonus rewards categories for grocery purchases can significantly reduce your expenses over time. According to a recent article by The Motley Fool , choosing the right card depends on your goals and habits. Consider whether you value immediate cash back or if accumulating travel points is more beneficial for future plans. Stay savvy and keep an eye on those rewards—your wallet will thank you!