CHINA FOOD SAFETY SCANDAL

Walmart faces Chinese heat after demand for price cuts
Chinese authorities summoned Walmart executives to discuss alleged demands for major price reductions from suppliers due to increased US tariffs. Beijing warned Walmart against such actions, which could damage the global supply chain and harm both US and Chinese businesses. Walmart aims to offer low prices for customers while maintaining strong business growth in China.

One of China’s largest restaurant chains in soup after video of diner urinating in hotpot goes viral
One of China's biggest restaurant chains has promised to refund thousands of customers after footage of a patron urinating into a simmering hotpot went viral online, triggering a public outcry. The restaurant said it would offer compensation to any customers involved in the store's over 4,100 orders between February 24 and March 8, equivalent to a full refund plus a lump sum of 10 times that amount.

Kidney-damaging jaggery? How this 'healthy' sweetener could be slowly harming your internal organs
Recent findings show the presence of harmful chemicals in market-sold jaggery, posing significant health risks such as kidney damage. Adulterants like washing soda and metanil yellow are being used to enhance jaggery's appearance and volume, especially during festive seasons.

CRISPR, brighter than AI: India must invest in innovation, ethical use of this transformative gene-editing tool
India has the chance to lead in CRISPR technology by driving ethical gene editing innovations in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. By establishing a national research initiative, fast-track regulatory approvals, and encouraging public-private partnerships, India could develop cost-effective treatments, improve food security, and address environmental challenges, setting a global example.

Display of menu, rate list of food items in trains mandatory: Railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the mandatory display of food menus and rates on trains. He outlined measures for improving hygiene and quality, including modern kitchens, CCTV monitoring, branded ingredients, and regular audits. Passengers receive SMS updates with menu links, and QR codes on food packages provide detailed information.

FSSAI directs States to step up food safety checks on dairy analogues
FSSAI has directed all States and Union Territories to intensify surveillance on Dairy Analogues during March due to the festive season. Dairy Analogues are products resembling milk but containing non-milk constituents. This move aims to prevent food adulteration and mislabelling during high demand periods, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations and protecting consumers.
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China deploys robot dogs, autonomous vehicles for public security in Beijing
China has introduced robot dogs and autonomous patrol vehicles in Beijing's tech area to enhance public security. The Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area (BDA) has rolled out intelligent patrol tools, including unmanned vehicles and robotic dogs, aimed at boosting urban safety and governance. The initiative, still in its trial phase, underscores Beijing's advancements in AI and smart city development.
Mercedes to develop smart cars for global markets with China's Hesai lidar
Mercedes-Benz will develop smart driving cars for global markets, using Hesai's lidar sensors from China. Despite the heightened U.S.-China trade tensions, Mercedes chose Hesai for its cost-effectiveness and production capability. Hesai, China's largest lidar maker, also plans to establish overseas production lines next year to address tariff and logistics concerns.
Centre to support food processing industry with slew of schemes: Official
The Centre has introduced several subsidy schemes to support the food processing industry, targeting micro to large units to reduce food wastage and extend shelf life. With Rs 400 crore allocated for small and medium units, there's a significant opportunity for investments. The ministry will also host World Food India in Delhi to highlight the sector.
USDA cuts over $1 billion in funding for schools, local food purchases
The U.S. Agriculture Department cut over $1 billion in funds for programs aiding schools and food banks in purchasing from local farms and ranches. These cuts are part of efforts to reduce federal spending under President Trump's administration. The decision has led to concerns among farmers and food organizations, who are now cutting staff and halting investments.
ED searches 14 locations linked to son of former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel
The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) conducted searches at 14 locations linked to Chaitanya Baghel, son of former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel, in connection with a money laundering probe in a ?2,161 crore liquor scandal. Searches were also conducted in Durg district.
Corrupt HR manager made whopping Rs 20 crore by firing workers but keeping them on payroll
A tech firm in Shanghai was embroiled in a financial scandal involving 22 fictitious employees. An HR manager secretly kept these 'employees' on the payroll for eight years, embezzling around Rs 20 crore. The fraud was exposed in 2022, leading to his conviction and a sentence of over 10 years in prison.
Cargill inaugurates new corn milling plant in MP to meet growing demand
Cargill has opened a new corn milling plant in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, in collaboration with Saatvik Agro Processors to address rising domestic demand. The facility, with an initial capacity of 500 tonnes per day, aims to produce high-quality starch derivatives and could expand to 1,000 tonnes daily, potentially exploring export opportunities in the future.
Cargill inaugurates new corn milling plant
This facility will enhance supply chain efficiencies and support industry growth, aligning with the 'Make in India' vision.
China, Hong Kong stocks end lower on deflation worries
China and Hong Kong stocks declined on Monday as mounting deflationary pressures heightened concerns over the country's economic recovery amid escalating global trade tensions.
Chinese shoppers shrug off tariffs on US pantry staples
Chinese tariffs on US agricultural products like fruit, vegetables, meat, and grains took effect, but Beijing market vendors remain unfazed. They believe higher prices will shift demand to domestic products. Shoppers show indifference to the trade war, prioritizing quality over origin, although concerns about domestic food safety persist. Ultimately, regular people bear the brunt of the trade tensions.
Cockroach milk more nutritious than cow's milk? Scientists release a shocking study
Researchers have discovered that cockroach milk, specifically from the Pacific beetle cockroach, is highly nutritious, containing three times the calories of buffalo milk. Despite its potential as a sustainable food source, production challenges and its safety for human consumption remain significant hurdles.
China's inflation sees first contraction in over a year; goes below zero in February
China's consumer price index (CPI) fell 0.7% in February, missing expectations and marking the sharpest decline in 13 months. Producer price deflation persisted, with China's economy facing deflationary pressures. Core CPI fell 0.1%, the first drop since January 2021. The government has implemented measures to boost consumption, but weak household demand and an incomplete welfare system pose challenges.
Crypto, Crime & Corruption: A memecoin family’s checkered past puts the presidency of Argentina’s Javier Milei in trouble
The Davis family has been heavily involved in a scandal involving a cryptocurrency backed by Argentine President Javier Milei, resulting in significant losses for investors. Kelsier Ventures, led by Hayden Davis, allegedly profited massively during the token's launch, sparking an investigation. The family's controversial history includes crimes, polygamist cults, and attempts to reform.
China announces retaliatory tariffs on some Canada farm, food products
China retaliates against Canada's tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, steel, and aluminium by imposing duties on Canadian agricultural products. Starting March 20, China will implement a 100% tariff on rapeseed oil, oil cakes, and pea imports, and a 25% duty on aquatic products and pork. This move adds another dimension to the ongoing trade war influenced by global tariff disputes.
Airlines tighten rules on power banks after in-flight fire risks; here are the latest regulations
Several Asian airlines have introduced stricter policies on power bank usage following a recent aircraft fire incident. The new regulations prohibit passengers from using or charging power banks mid-flight to prevent thermal runaway risks. South Korea’s aviation authorities have also restricted the storage of portable battery banks and e-cigarettes in overhead bins, effective March 2025.
Lawyer confirms positive talks with investigator Michael Hershman over bofors scandal
Advocate Ajay Aggarwal and private investigator Michael Hershman discussed new information on the Bofors scandal, with Hershman agreeing to cooperate with the CBI. Hershman alleged that the investigation was derailed by the government and confirmed his readiness to present evidence. The CBI aims to uncover the Rs64-crore bribery scandal's truth.
Auriga Research signs MoUs with Assam govt, Tea Research Association for food, pharma testing lab
Auriga Research Private Limited has signed two critical MoUs with the Government of Assam and the Tea Research Association to bolster the state’s food, pharmaceutical, and tea industries. The agreements aim to establish advanced testing laboratories and improve Assam’s tea testing infrastructure, enhancing global competitiveness and quality assurance.
Tariffs add a new shock to food supply chains
While some companies are trying to source from alternate locations, others may pass the increased costs to consumers. Target and Chipotle are among those affected, addressing potential price changes and cost absorption.
Police robots patrolling China streets? Netizens call it ‘crazy times’ as video goes viral
In Shenzhen, humanoid robots are now assisting police officers, gaining attention for their lifelike behavior. However, a recent incident in Tianjin where a robot malfunctioned and lunged at a crowd has sparked safety concerns. Organizers called it a "robotic failure" and reassured the public of improved safety measures in the future.
China maintains defence spending increase at 7.2%
China will increase its defence spending by 7.2% this year, maintaining the same growth rate as last year. This move comes amid economic challenges and geopolitical pressures including Taiwan and Ukraine. The total budget has more than doubled since 2013. Notably, this comes despite corruption scandals within the People's Liberation Army affecting high-ranking officials.
How China reduced its reliance on US farm imports and sharpened its trade war toolkit
Beijing has intensified efforts to reduce dependence on U.S. agricultural products amid escalating trade tensions. China has diversified supply sources, boosted local production, and implemented measures to enhance food security, including gene-edited seeds, reducing soymeal usage, and adopting anti-food waste laws. Import reductions from the U.S. and record domestic grain production highlight these initiatives.
Is India unsafe for women? Food poisoning? Solo Australian female traveler shares three things that surprised her in India
An Australian content creator debunked myths about solo travel in India, calling it one of her best trips. She felt safe throughout, enjoyed the food, and was captivated by the rich culture and history. Her experiences contradicted common misconceptions about safety and food. She looks forward to returning and exploring more regions.
National Safety Day 2025: Why India celebrates March 4 as a day to raise awareness on safety; know its history and importance
National Safety Day, observed on March 4, emphasizes raising awareness about safety and promoting a culture of safety across India. Celebrated since 1972, it encourages the implementation of Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) practices and aims to foster employee engagement in safety activities for a sustainable future.
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