Youdle News

  As the  U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)  and public health researchers continue to report growing food deserts across the country, local leaders in  Everett, Washington , are taking action. Following recent Fred Meyer closures that disrupted neighborhood grocery access, Everett officials are waiving fares on  Everett Transit Route 12  for the next six months to help residents reach supermarkets, independent grocers, and community food resources. The move is designed to make grocery trips easier and more affordable while the city’s retail landscape stabilizes. For shoppers, pairing the fare-free ride with  Youdle’s grocery shopping list tool  means confirming which nearby stores have essentials in stock — from produce and meat to baby formula and household basics — before leaving home.  For  emergency management teams , the same visibility supports coordinated outreach for seniors, fixed-income families, and neighborhoods hit ha...

Frozen spinach sold in the U.S. is being recalled due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination, according to an Oct. 7 notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reported by USA TODAY. Listeria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, and those who are pregnant. If you’ve purchased frozen spinach recently, review the recall details for affected lot codes and best-by dates before consuming. For full context and the evolving list of impacted products, see "Frozen Spinach Recalled for Possible Listeria Contamination — See Affected Products" . Shoppers: If your product matches the recalled lot information, do not eat it. Dispose of it or return it to the store where purchased. Wash hands and clean any surfaces that may have contacted the spinach. Monitor for symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, headache, or gastrointestinal illness; pregnant individuals should consult a h...

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...

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...

Food recalls can impact the availability of your favorite grocery items and affect food safety at home. The first week of August 2025 has seen several recalls that consumers need to be aware of, including popular items such as Member's Mark Freeze Dried Fruit. Understanding the details behind these recalls ensures you can make informed decisions during your grocery trips. Here is a list of the  Ongoing Grocery Recalls This Week  by AllRecipes.com and where they're recalled: 1.  Member’s Mark Freeze Dried Fruit Why:  Possible  Listeria  contamination. Sold at:  Sam’s Club in 40+ states. What to do:  Check UPC  1 93968 50900 2  and best-by dates between  June 24–July 25, 2027 . Dispose if matched. Monitor for Listeria symptoms. 2.  Schnucks Frozen Tortellini Why:  Contains  ravioli with sesame and soy  (undeclared allergens). Sold in:  IL, IN, MO, WI. What to do:  Check for 16 oz. bags, best-by  Ma...

A popular freeze-dried fruit snack has been pulled from shelves across the country. Doehler Dry Ingredient Solutions has issued a nationwide recall of the Member’s Mark Freeze Dried Fruit Variety Pack (15-count box) due to the presence of Listeria monocytogenes , a potentially dangerous bacteria. Product info: UPC: 1 93968 50900 2 Sold in bulk variety packs Distributed nationwide Listeria is especially dangerous for young children, seniors, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system. Symptoms may include high fever, muscle aches, and digestive issues—and in some cases, the infection can become life-threatening. Consumers are urged to: Check your pantry immediately Throw away the affected product Do not consume it Contact the store or manufacturer for a refund or replacement For more details and the official FDA Recall Announcement .

Grocery prices are rising, and now senior citizens are feeling the fallout. A longtime meal program has cut back from five days a week to four due to food costs becoming unsustainable. For many seniors, these free hot meals are their only reliable source of food—and human connection. One woman said, "I’m just so happy that these ladies give me the help I need." This isn’t just a local issue—it’s a national warning. As inflation hits programs like this, more seniors could be left hungry and isolated. 💡 One way to help: If you’re able, donate grocery store gift cards or non-perishables to a nearby senior center or meal provider. Even small contributions can help programs offset rising food costs. Read the full article for more details.

The Tornado Took Everything—Even Their Identity: Why Secure Record-Keeping Is Now a Survival Tool When the winds died down, and the sky cleared, all that remained was rubble. But for many tornado survivors, the real devastation didn’t hit until hours—or even days—later. “I couldn’t prove who I was,” one survivor recalls in the emotional short film Lessons in Resilience: The Vital Role of Secure Record-Keeping After a Tornado . “My house was gone. My ID was gone. My life was paused.” Natural disasters destroy more than property. They scatter the very documents that define a person’s existence—birth certificates, insurance papers, medical records, and IDs. Without them, survivors can’t access relief programs, refill prescriptions, or even prove ownership of their home. 📂 Why Secure Record-Keeping Matters Now More Than Ever As climate events grow in frequency and intensity, emergency preparedness is no longer just about bottled water and batteries. It’s about digital readiness . H...

Virginia Task Force 1 Joins Texas Rescue Mission with FEMA Backing When severe weather swept across parts of Texas, help came from hundreds of miles away. Virginia Task Force 1 (VATF-1) —a renowned urban search and rescue team based in Fairfax County—was deployed with support from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to assist with life-saving operations in the Lone Star State. 🚨 From Northern Virginia to Texas: Responding to the Call Known for their precision and preparedness in disaster zones, VATF-1 arrived ready to assist communities hit hard by flooding and storm-related emergencies. Their mission: assess damage, search for trapped individuals, and support local agencies stretched thin by the growing number of incidents. “This is what they train for,” said a FEMA spokesperson. “Their ability to navigate chaotic, high-risk environments saves lives.” 🛠️ Coordinated Response Saves Time—and Lives Backed by FEMA, the task force brought not just expertise, but a strea...

Adapting to Online Shifts: How Grocers Can Build Loyalty Amid Rising Digital Demand As 71% of consumers transition to online grocery shopping, grocers are facing the challenge of increasing customer loyalty amidst this digital migration. The trend necessitates a shift in how local stores engage with their communities. According to a recent article by NC News Online, price and associated fees remain major deterrents. Incorporating technologies that streamline operations and reduce digital friction is vital. Grocers can strengthen their community ties by providing exceptional online service that mirrors their in-store engagement. With the right tools, local grocers can not only retain their customer base but also expand it by meeting consumers where they are—online, without sacrificing the personal touch that sets them apart from larger chains. This adaptation will help small-scale stores to not only survive but thrive in a market increasingly dominated by digit...

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Dubai Chocolate Spread: CDC Reports Hospitalization Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Dubai Chocolate Spread: CDC Reports Hospitalization A pistachio-cocoa spread imported from Dubai has been linked to a Salmonella outbreak , according to a recent CDC report . At least one person has been hospitalized, and health officials are urging the public to stay alert. The outbreak follows closely on the heels of a related product recall, raising concerns about food safety and distribution transparency. For emergency managers, real-time data is critical—helping to track and contain the spread while keeping communities informed and protected. For shoppers, this is a reminder of the importance of staying aware—not just of what you’re buying, but where it came from. Community-driven pl...

Rapid Response: How the Distribution Industry Supports Emergency Relief Efforts In the aftermath of severe flooding in Chungcheongnam-do (Chungnam), South Korea , the distribution industry executed a rapid and coordinated response to support emergency operations. Torrential rains impacted key areas like Asan, Dangjin, and Yesan , displacing residents and overwhelming local resources. Within hours, major logistics and retail companies—including E‑Mart, CU (BGF Retail), Lotte, GS Retail, Shinsegae , and CJ Foodville —delivered emergency kits, bottled water, ready-to-eat meals, and hygiene supplies to shelters and flood-affected zones. For example, CU deployed 12,000 units of essentials , while E‑Mart provided full kits for 500 households . For emergency responders, this response highlights several key takeaways: Logistical Readiness : Companies leveraged existing warehouse and transport infrastructure to move supplies quickly into high-impact zones. Public-Private Coordination...

Ensure Your Emergency Pantry is Packed with the Best When it comes to emergency preparedness, having a supply of nutrient-dense canned goods is crucial. Experts recommend a well-balanced pantry to ensure survival without sacrificing nutrition. Important items include canned vegetables, fruits, beans, and meats that can provide essential nutrients during an unforeseen crisis. Picture your pantry lined with colorful stacks of canned tomatoes, vibrant fruits in syrup, and hearty beans ready to provide energy and comfort. These staples are not only long-lasting but also versatile, making them perfect for a variety of meals. Check out this comprehensive guide of the Top 17 Canned Foods for a Well-Prepared Emergency Pantry  based on nutritional value and shelf life, ensuring you’re prepared for the long haul. In times of emergency, having an accessible and efficient way to track available supplies is essential. Platforms like Youdle can offer real-time visibility into ...

" Stay Ready: Cyclone Preparedness in Light of Potential Storm Near Florida As the National Hurricane Center (NHC) monitors a developing weather system off the southeastern U.S. coast, Floridians are being urged to prepare now — not later. With a 40% chance of cyclone formation over the coming days, this system may strengthen quickly, leaving little time for last-minute planning. Even a weak tropical cyclone can bring flooding, power outages, and supply chain disruptions. Staying informed and stocked with essentials is critical — both at the household level and within broader community systems. 🌪️ Why Early Preparedness Matters The Gulf and Atlantic hurricane seasons are notorious for unpredictable patterns. A storm that begins as a disorganized system can intensify rapidly due to warm sea temperatures and favorable wind conditions — a trend that’s becoming more common with climate change. According to FEMA, more than 60% of hurricane-related injuries occur after the storm ...

Costco Recall Alert: What You Need to Know and How to Get Help Costco has issued urgent recall notices on several essential products — including tires, air conditioners, and portable power banks — due to safety concerns. These recalls impact items that many families rely on during summer travel, home cooling, and power outage preparedness. The recall, emphasizes potential hazards such as overheating, equipment failure, or product defects that could pose serious risks in emergency situations. If you're an emergency manager, a household relying on backup power, or someone who recently purchased these products from Costco, it’s critical to check whether your items are affected. What to Do if You Purchased a Recalled Item Check Your Purchase:  Visit Costco’s recall center or the  NHTSA recall site  for tire-related products. Use your receipt or Costco membership to look up recent purchases. Stop Using the Product:  Immediately discontinue use of the recalled item, especi...

According to NOAA, the  number  of billion-dollar weather and climate disasters in the United States has been rising over the past few decades. In 2023 alone, the U.S. experienced 28 separate billion-dollar disasters — the highest number on record. 2023 Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters.  In light of this increasing frequency and severity, both FEMA and the American Red Cross strongly recommend that every household prepare a 72-hour survival kit. These kits are essential to ensure that individuals and families can sustain themselves in the critical first three days after a disaster before external help arrives. Your survival kit should include enough food and water for three days, along with essential items like medications, flashlight, batteries, and a first aid kit. Additionally, items such as sanitation supplies and important documents are also recommended. The goal is to be self-sufficient while waiting for assistance. Such preparedness not only enhances pe...

Florida Woman Shares Harrowing Experience of Tornado Destruction Florida Woman Shares Harrowing Experience of Tornado Destruction Published: June 29, 2025 On a seemingly normal day in Largo, Florida, Debby Mettler experienced the unimaginable as a powerful tornado struck her neighborhood. According to "Florida Woman Recounts Surviving Tornado that Swept Up Home" , Debby was at home when the storm intensified, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. "It looked like any other day before it happened," Debby shared. With no warning, the tornado hit with ferocity, challenging her survival instincts. As the winds roared, she clung to safety and hoped for the best outcome amidst chaos. For many in emergency management, stories like Debby's underscore the critical need for real-time information and coordinated response systems. This is where platforms like Youdle play a vital role, offering resources that help anticipate and manage su...

Erosion of Federal Support Threatens Food Security in Greater Boston Erosion of Federal Support Threatens Food Security in Greater Boston: A Critical Analysis Published: June 29, 2025 The Greater Boston area faces a concerning challenge as proposed reductions to USDA nutrition programs such as TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program) and LAMP (Local Agriculture Market Program) threaten to disrupt emergency food access across the region. With vulnerable communities at risk, timely and coordinated action is essential. A recent analysis highlighted by the MetroWest Daily News emphasizes the potential fallout from these federal changes, which could lead to a significant food security crisis affecting millions of Massachusetts residents. The role of localized platforms like Youdle becomes crucial in these times, providing real-time visibility into available grocery items and connecting communities with nearby resources. By empowering local grocers and emergency management ...

" Top 10 Notorious Seafood Recalls in America When it comes to food safety, seafood can be particularly tricky. On March 16, 2016, Bumble Bee Foods, LLC announced a voluntary recall of three variations of their Chunk Light tuna after an audit exposed serious issues. This serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance for both sellers and consumers. Recognizing the serious implications of food recalls, Youdle is committed to providing real-time visibility into grocery inventory, helping shoppers avoid such pitfalls. With Youdle, communities can have greater confidence in the safety and availability of local food products. Seafood recalls can arise due to contamination, packaging problems, or other safety concerns. Staying informed and aware of recent recalls is crucial for ensuring safe consumption and preparation of seafood at home. As part of our effort to keep emergency managers and community members educated and prepared, we recommend reviewing the full list of ...