Skip to main content

Featured

Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...

article

Why Plant-Based Meat Failed to Satisfy Consumers and Investors

Plant-based meat was once hailed as a game-changer for the food industry, promising to deliver meat alternatives that are better for the environment, animal welfare, and human health. However, after a decade of hype and billions of dollars in funding, the sector is facing a harsh reality check.

According to Pitchbook, a venture-capital research firm, funding for food-technology startups has fallen to the lowest level in nearly a decade, and many plant-based meat companies have struggled to turn a profit or scale up production. The main reasons for this decline are the high price, mediocre taste, and questionable health benefits of plant-based meat products.

Despite the growing awareness of the environmental and ethical issues of animal agriculture, most consumers are not willing to pay a premium for plant-based meat that does not taste as good as the real thing. A recent survey by the International Food Information Council found that only 28% of Americans have tried plant-based meat, and only 10% eat it regularly. Moreover, many consumers are skeptical about the health claims of plant-based meat, which often contains high amounts of sodium, fat, and additives.

As a result, plant-based meat has failed to capture a significant market share or disrupt the meat industry, which has also responded by offering more sustainable and humane options. While plant-based meat may still have a niche appeal for some consumers, it is unlikely to become a mainstream choice anytime soon.

Comments